The Wisconsin housing market is facing a slump, with prices soaring by 8% over the past year and a shortage that is expected to worsen in the coming decade. As a result, finding affordable traditional homes is becoming increasingly difficult.
However, shipping container homes in Wisconsin are emerging as a viable alternative for those looking for economical housing options.
To help you get started on your container home journey, we’ve compiled a list of the most efficient and experienced shipping container home builders in and near Wisconsin, along with their hottest pre=built models you can buy.
Below we’ve provided a comprehensive review of each builder, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make an informed decision.
In each review you’ll find information on pricing, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and what makes them stand out as a builder.
Best Shipping Container Homes for Sale in Wisconsin
1. Backcountry Containers
- Year founded: 2016
- Website: backcountrycontainers.com
- # of Models: 3
- Areas served: United States
- Homes manufactured: 35+
- Headquarters: Needville, Texas
- Pricing: +$49,000 to +$90,000
- Reviews:
- Google: None
- Yelp: None
- Create custom plans: Yes
Backcountry Containers is a builder that specializes in shipping container structures, including both residential and commercial buildings. With a production facility located in Wisconsin, they can easily provide their services to Wisconsinites throughout the state.
You might have even seen them on TV. The company has received a lot of attention from popular media outlets such as HGTV’s Tiny House Big Living, the discovery+ show Containables, and even Business Insider.
While their construction quality is amazing, one drawback we found is that they don’t have a lot of options if you want something out of the box.
They only offer two small prefab homes and one prefab office. The homes can either be built with a 20-foot or 40-foot container, and can be delivered to your doorstep in 6-16 weeks.
One thing we liked about their prefab models is that they do have a range of upgrades you can choose from including cladding, appliances, cabinetry, and a rooftop deck kit.
Their models are designed for couples or individuals searching for affordable shipping container homes who prefer the tiny living lifestyle.
Of course, if you prefer to go the custom build route, they can do that too. This is a great option if you have a bigger budget ($100k+) and want more space in your container home.
While I think you’ll pay a premium due to their name and brand recognition, you can’t argue with their results. They deliver excellent homes and are a solid option if you want to go custom and have the budget to afford it.
Pros:
- Offers both prefab and fully custom homes
- Provides financing options
- Uses quality materials on the interior
Cons:
- Models are limited to small homes with little variation
- They don’t provide on-site services such as foundation and installation work, so you would have to find a local general contractor to handle these services.
Let’s take a look at one of their model homes.
The Ezra Model
- Price: +$63,000
- Size in sq ft: 160 sq ft usable area
- Price per sq ft: $394
- Number of containers used: 1
- Container sizes: 20 ft
- Number of bedrooms: 1
- Number of bathrooms: 1
- Standout Feature: Straightforward open plan design with lots of natural light
The Ezra model, offered by Backcountry Containers, is a great option for individuals or couples looking for a semi-furnished shipping container home or workspace. With a usable area of 160 square feet, this tiny home has a straightforward open-plan design that provides ample natural light and a spacious feel despite its small size.
One of the standout features of the Ezra is its sliding glass door, which has windows on both sides that create a bright living space and reduce its cramped feeling. Inside, there is a full bathroom, a galley kitchen, and plenty of built-in storage, including a lofted sleeping area.
Despite its small size, the Ezra is designed to make the most of every inch of space, providing a comfortable and efficient living or working environment. Overall, it is a great choice for those seeking an affordable and functional container home that doesn’t skimp on style or amenities.
2. S.I. Container Builds (SICB)
- Year founded: 2019
- Website: www.sicontainerbuilds.com
- # of Models: 11
- Areas served: United States and Canada
- Homes manufactured: N/A
- Headquarters: Buffalo Grove, Illinois
- Pricing: +$39,900 to $175,000
- Reviews:
- Google: 5 out of 5 stars
- Yelp: None
- Create custom plans: No
Although just established in 2019, SICB’s skills have already been recognized by the Buffalo Grove Award Program as the best in construction in 2022.
SICB offers a wide variety of floor plans, from small to large, with high-quality interior finishes and most models featuring a fully furnished kitchenette/kitchen and bathroom(s). All of their plans use one-trip repurposed shipping containers with options on solar power or off-grid components.
Although they don’t offer turn-key and on-site services, they do provide a one-year warranty for all models and manufacturers’ warranties for appliances installed.
Pros:
- Offers financing options
- All models come with a one-year warranty
- Affordable
- Lots of pre-built models to choose from
Cons:
- Don’ provide turn-key and on-site services
Let’s take a look at one of their pre-built models, The Oasis.
The Oasis Model
- Price: +$175,000
- Size in sq ft: 960 sq ft usable area
- Price per sq ft: $182
- Number of containers used: 3
- Container sizes: 40 ft
- Number of bedrooms: 3
- Number of bathrooms: 2
- Standout Feature: Tons of available upgrades to make the home truly yours
The Oasis model from S.I. Container Builds is an impressive shipping container home that boasts 960 square feet of usable space. This spacious and modern container home is made up of three 40-foot containers, making it a perfect option for families.
The floor plan maximizes on space, with three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a kitchen.
What sets the Oasis model apart from other models is the variety of upgrade options offered by S.I. Container Builds.
Customers can select from a range of upgrades that include a custom paint choice, exterior cladding, additional doors and windows, furniture package, barn (bathroom) door, solar panels, off-grid components, exterior deck, security system, and more.
So, even though you’re buying a “pre-built” container house, with all the available customizations you can choose from, you can really make the home yours and built to your style.
Overall, the Oasis model is an excellent choice for families who are searching for a semi-furnished home with modern finishes and a range of upgrade options to create a unique and functional living space.
With S.I. Container Builds’ commitment to quality and attention to detail, customers can be confident that their new home will provide comfort and durability for many years to come.
3. Custom Container Living (CCL)
- Year founded: 2015
- Website: www.customcontainerliving.com
- # of Models: 17
- Areas served: United States
- Homes manufactured: N/A
- Headquarters: Archie, Missouri
- Pricing: +$44,950 to +$218,900
- Reviews:
- Google: 4.6 out of 5 stars
- Yelp: None
- Create custom plans: Yes
CCL is a container home builder based in Archie, Missouri. With a reputation for quality builds, they have been named the best container home builder of 2023 by The Spruce. They offer a wide range of container homes, with 17 models to choose from, that can be customized in terms of finishes, fixtures, furniture, and appliances.
CCL’s floor plans range from studios to three-bedrooms, making them perfect for individuals or families. One thing I like about Custom Container Living is that they use closed cell spray foam in the walls and ceilings of all of their models, meaning your container home will heat and cool quickly.
I also like that they tailor to a range of budgets. They offer both affordable and expensive, with their pre-built container homes ranging from just under $45,000 to over $230,000.
If you’re looking for a shipping container home that’s uniquely your own, CCL’s custom-builds can accommodate any style and budget. Similar to the above competitors, they don’t offer on-site services, so you’ll need to handle the permits and setting up the foundation yourself. They also don’t offer financing options, but are affiliated with LoanGlide who can help you achieve your dream home.
Pros:
- Offer both affordable and premium pricing models
- Highly customizable container homes
- Built using closed cell spray foam in the walls and ceilings
- Tons of different pre-built models to choose from
Cons:
- Don’t provide on-site services
- No financing options
Let’s take a look at one of their floor plans, “The Professional”.
The Professional
(Ground level view and Loft level view)
- Price: +$64,800
- Size in sq ft: 160 sq ft usable area
- Price per sq ft: $405
- Number of containers used: 1
- Container sizes: 20 ft
- # of bedrooms: 1
- # of bathrooms: 1
- Standout Feature: Comes with a loft
The Professional by Custom Container Living is a sleek and minimalistic container home that maximizes space without sacrificing style. With a footprint of just one 20′ container, this loft-style home covers an area of 160 square feet, perfect for those wanting the tiny home living lifestyle.
The living area of The Professional is cozy, yet functional. The space is large enough to accommodate an armchair or love-seat and space for digital entertainment. The kitchenette is well-equipped with a microwave, kitchen sink, refrigerator, pantry, and storage closet. The kitchen layout is similar to that of the Weekender, and a 24″ range is available as an upgrade.
The bathroom in The Professional is compact yet highly functional, featuring a walk-in shower and toilet situated to the side. The bathroom vanity is placed in the center with storage underneath. The composting toilet is available as an upgrade.
The loft area of The Professional is designed to host a comfortable queen-sized mattress. With approximately 40 inches of ceiling height, the side windows let in plenty of light for a bright and cheery space.
The exterior of The Professional can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer painted or metal siding, CCL offers a variety of options to choose from.
The base price of The Professional starts at $64,800, and any specific requirements requested by your city/county/state will drive the price up. Additional upgrades can be added to the core price, and customer modifications can be made at your request.
Overall, The Professional is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish and functional living space within a compact footprint.
4. Bob’s Containers
- Year founded: 2018
- Website: bobscontainers.com
- # of Models: 22
- Areas served: United States
- Homes manufactured: 600+
- Headquarters: Austin, Texas
- Pricing: +$41,234 to +$99,904
- Reviews:
- Google: 4.3 out of 5 stars
- Yelp: 4.1 out of 5 stars
- Create custom plans: Yes
Bob’s Containers, based in Austin, Texas, offers small shipping container homes with little modifications in interior and exterior finishes and a rooftop upgrade. They offer a variety of builds, from bare to semi-furnished, as well as a fully custom home option.
Bob’s Containers is a builder that prioritizes convenience, offering both turn-key and on-site services. With a history of working with big names like Tesla, Honeywell, Netflix, and Harvard, their products have been well-tested. They cater to individuals and small families that want affordable homes without needing to hire a local general contractor.
Their container homes range in price from just over $41,000 to nearly $100,000. They offer financing options and fast construction times of 6 to 12 weeks. While custom upgrades with estimated pricing are limited on their website, they do accept upgrades upon request.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Fast construction time of 6-12 weeks
- Complete solution offering turn-key and on-site services
- Financing available
Cons:
- Steep shipping costs
- Custom upgrades with estimated pricing are limited on their website
Here’s a look at one of their more popular models, The Joshua:
The Joshua
- Price: +$85,957
- Size in sq ft: 160 sq ft usable area
- Price per sq ft: $405
- # of containers used: 1
- Container sizes: 40 ft
- # of bedrooms: 1
- # of bathrooms: 1
- Standout Feature: Outside deck with a full bathroom and kitchenette
Built using one High-Cube 40ft container, the Joshua Model is an excellent option for anybody who is interested in building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), often known as an in-law suite, holiday rental, or vacation house. Bob’s Containers offers a number of different models, with the Joshua model being one of the company’s most well-known products (and the one that appeared on Netflix!).
What’s great about this model is that lead times are only 3–6 weeks on average, and the build times for their luxury units are only 5 weeks. This means that you won’t have to wait too long to get your project from conception to reality.
The Joshua Model is also an ideal fit for rental properties for people who want something easy and that comes semi-furnished with a luxurious feel.
5. Global Modulars
- Year founded: 1987
- Website: www.globalmodulars.com
- # of Models: 9
- Areas served: United States
- Homes manufactured: N/A
- Headquarters: Aventura, Florida
- Pricing: +$65,300 to +$625,200
- Reviews:
- Google: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Yelp: None
- Create custom plans: No
Global Modular is a friendly and dedicated builder based in sunny Florida. Even though they might be a bit far away, and shipping fees could be higher, we’ve included them on our list because they create some amazing homes that really stand out from the rest.
Their homes are designed to be ready for solar power and can withstand tough weather like hurricanes and earthquakes. Global Modular’s modular designs have a clean, modern feel, turning the shipping container frame into a stylish rectangular structure. Although customization options might be a bit limited, they offer various sizes and top-notch interior and exterior finishes.
So, if you’re an individual or a family looking for a luxury container home that comes with friendly and convenient service, Global Modular has got you covered!
Pros:
- Financing available
- Solar-ready units
- Designed to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes
- Pretty quick construction time of 12 weeks
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Shipping costs to Wisconsin may be high due to them being located in Florida
Let’s take a look at one of their larger floor plans, the Quattro House.
4BR: Quattro House
- Price: +$218,900
- Size in sq ft: 1280 sq ft usable area
- Price per sq ft: $405
- # of containers used: 4
- Container sizes: 40 ft
- # of bedrooms: 4
- # of bathrooms: 2
- Standout Feature: Large front deck and rooftop deck
The Quattro House is a luxury shipping container home that accentuates its spaciousness by providing a large central shared area in the middle of the 4 bedrooms and a large front deck.
Along with the front deck, the home also offers a rooftop deck, impact proof windows and doors, and is able to withstand a hurricane or earthquake.
One thing that stands out about this container home is the fact that it has eight layers of material on the walls, including “R Matte 3 Plus” high-grade insulation.
This house is ready to go out of the box, all you need to do is pick the color, exterior finish option, and what cabinets you want.
FAQ
1. Do banks loan money on shipping container homes?
Short Answer: It depends on the bank in question.
As seen from our list, some container home builders have partnerships with certain banks for easier financing. Meanwhile, other builders ensure to follow building codes to ease your financing burden.
2. Is it cheaper to build or buy a shipping container home?
Building your container home will be cheaper if you DIY it. However, the time it will take will be far longer, sometimes taking twice or thrice the construction time of a prefab home. So, it is up to you whether construction costs or time is your bigger priority.
3. How long do shipping container homes last?
Your container home will generally last for about 25 years. However, with proper maintenance, it can be even longer. The technique for good upkeep is the early identification of rust spots. You can also search for container homes made of Corten steel for increased rust resistance.
Conclusion:
Building a shipping container home in Wisconsin will no longer be just a dream with the help of the builder on our list. With the variety of container home builders in Wisconsin and near the state, starting your container home project will be less difficult as opposed to doing it alone.
So, do you prefer a home unique to your style made of your hard work or do you prefer the convenience of a modular container home?
