Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Container Homes = CCH
Do you have questions about shipping containers? You’re not alone. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers to help. Here you can learn more about:
Our Containers
Q: Why should I choose a shipping container over a brick and mortar building or other modular structure?
A: A shipping container is an inherently cost-effective, strong and secure solution for functional, mobile space - even before modifying it at any level. No other structure can meet that criteria.
Q: What can shipping containers be used for?
A: Shipping containers can be utilized for commercial, industrial, housing and institutional applications. Uses include residential housing , emergency housing , hunting cabins , man caves , mother-in-law apartment , ADU’s, storage space, office space, breakrooms, industrial enclosures, workforce housing and more.
Q: Where do the shipping containers come from?
A: CCH has a sophisticated supply chain that enables us to obtain the best containers from all over the world.
Q: What types of containers do you use?
A: We repurpose used shipping containers. Many of our containers have only been used one time and are in “like new” condition. We also have access to new never used containers.
Q: How do I know I’m getting a quality container to start with?
A: When containers arrive at our facility, we ensure they meet our strict criteria for quality prior to beginning any work. If you’d like, you can even visit our location and pick the exact container you’d like us to use, often times we inspect the container before delivery.
Our Capabilities
Q: Do you provide products to individuals or only businesses?
A: We sell to individuals as well as small businesses, large corporations and government/military.
Q: Do you have standard floor plans?
A: Yes, we have many standard floor plans for a variety of applications. We offer simple configurations for easily accessing and organizing storage space - including climate controlled storage. For offices, living or other functional space, we have floor plans which have been refined over several projects to reflect what works the best for most people. Contact us for floor plan diagrams.
Q: Can you custom design my shipping container?
A: CCH is proud to offer pre-engineered shipping container products with standard options that meet or exceed most requirements. Should additional customizations be required, we’re happy to consult with you to provide a solution.
Q: I want more/different windows, doors, etc. Can I add those?
A: CCH can add additional standard windows and doors. Adding windows and doors which are not CCH standard requires a consultation and could incur additional costs and lead time.
Q: Can you provide furniture in the container?
A: For loose furniture, CCH recommends customer self-selection and self-installation. We do offer cabinets, work surfaces, and shelves that are secured to the interior walls.
Q: Can I have the unit completely self-contained so I don’t have to hook up to site utilities? For example, using Solar?
A: Yes, we offer both on-grid and off-grid self-contained units to meet your needs.
Q: Can I have a rooftop skylight/deck/garden/etc?
A: While we do not recommend cutting into the roof of a container, we can and have constructed many decks including railings, ladders and staircases.
Q: Can I have the entire side cut out?
A: Yes, however, the steel in the wall of a container is integral to its strength. If the wall is cut out, it must be reinforced with steel in order to maintain its shape and sturdiness.
Q: Can I have granite counter tops or other high-end finishes?
A: CCH products have been proven effective in the container environment and are guaranteed to withstand the wear and tear of transportation. Many customer specified interior products or finishes can be accommodated. Often we recommend alternative materials or self-installation once the product is delivered.
Q: Do you build custom residential shipping container homes?
A: We have standard floor plans for a ready-to-use living environment and a hunting cabin. If you’re seeking a larger, custom project, we recommend customers work with an architect for a design, we will also assist with architectural design and structural steel requirements.
Q: Can you deliver?
A: Yes, we can arrange delivery of your shipping container. Please contact us for a quote to your exact delivery location.
Container How-To’s
Q: What site preparation do I need to do?
A: Standard CCH floor plans do require foundation, steps, ramps, tie downs or skirting. Where applicable, connections to power, water, and waste may be required. Additionally, CCH recommends a level surface for comfort.
Q: How do I hook up electrical and plumbing to my unit?
A: Electrical and plumbing can both be connected very easily by a licensed electrician or plumber through external portals on the container. Please note that the electrical connection has high voltage, and customers should hire an electrician to safely connect the container to power. CCH will assist in all utility hookups and coordinate with your contractor.
Q: I want to start small and add on later. Can I do that?
A: Yes. The modular nature of container building is one of its benefits. Often times add-ons are part of the original plan.
Q: What building codes pertain to my project?
A: All structures are subject to the building codes of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). There will also be variations in code requirements depending on the size and use of your project and whether it’s temporary or permanent. CCH is a proud provider of international code compliant containers will dramatically streamline your permitting process because your local code official won’t have to take on the arduous process of approval through Alternative Means and Methods.
Q: Can I bury it and make a bunker/basement/storm shelter?
A: The walls, roof and floor of a container are not strong enough to withstand the pressure from dirt or water. We absolutely do not recommend burying a container to any depth without proper structural engineering.
Our Ordering Process
Q: How does CCH ordering process work?
A: A quick consultation will allow us to understand your needs and in turn we will provide a quote for your approval. Before production however, you’ll receive and approve drawings to ensure the container is produced to your specifications.
Q: How does the payment process work ?
A: Payment terms:
1. Reservation deposit: $5000.00 (non-refundable) We consult with you to design your project, this will reserve your spot & initiate the design process.
2. Production payment: 50% , We begin production of your project
3. Progress payment: 40% As your project moves through the production process , a progress payment will be required
4. Completion payment: 10%, Before the unit is shipped a completion payment I full is required.
Q: How long will it take to fulfill my order?
A: The current lead time on a standard floor plan is 4-8 weeks. Any desired changes to our standard plans requires review by our Design and Engineering team. We’ll provide you with a completion time following the evaluation.
Q: If I buy in volume, can I get a discount?
A: CCH prides itself on operational efficiency and being able to offer all customers fair pricing. If an order positively impacts to our ability to purchase raw materials from our suppliers, price savings will be passed through to the customer.
Q: Can I have an architectural/CAD/3D drawing of a CCH container?
A: We provide Work Instruction drawings for customer approval prior to beginning any work. Please note, there are variations between manufacturers of containers. These variations include corrugation patterns, construction techniques, floor materials, and even exact size. For this reason it is not possible to provide drawings or models beyond the Work Instructions.
Q: How does a Bank classify a Container Home?
A: Simply put, a Container Home is a Home. We certify all our homes under your local required factory-built modular status for the State of Colorado, which assures that your home has been engineered and built to meet the local building code of where it will be permanently placed. Our homes have been designed and sealed by registered professionals to be compliant with the local building code and are permitted by local municipalities as standard permanent homes.
Q: Can a Container Home be stacked?
A: Yes, they are stacked four high at times during shipping and can hold up to 60,000 pounds in a 40 foot container.
Q: Does CCH supply land?
A: CCH does not sale land, but the Container Home fits very well as a primary residence or in your back yard as secondary dwelling , or in remote areas and as a cabin or cottage.
Q: If it’s considered permanent does that mean i can’t move it?
A: Container Homes are inherently modular, it comes together in modules and can be dismantled back into its original modules. A Container Home is typically welded to a permanent foundation and bolted together onsite. With the right tools and approvals, you can relocate your home in the future.
Q: Can I visit your facility during the build out ?
A: Absolutely ! We encourage you to visit and inspect the work as it progresses, by appointment only….. Often times we are spray painting or have different chemicals in the shop that are not comfortable for visitors.
Q: How do I finance my Container Home ?
A: We do not offer financing directly. As the Tiny / Container Home movement is a bit new, financing can be a challenge as we wait for banks and other lenders to determine exactly how they want to loan on these structures. Having said that, there are some lenders who are starting to come around. After doing a bit of research, below are the various options we have found. The first two are “Tiny Home” specific. The others are a combination of personal loans and peer-to-peer financing.
Tiny House Lending LightStream, Tiny Home Financing Lending Club , Lending Tree , Discover Personal Loan , BB&T Bank , Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, Prosper.com , Personal Loans.com , 24/7 Lendinggroup, First Financial Bank https://www.ffin.com/ https://www.lightstream.com/tiny-houses.
Keep in mind, our container Homes are certified by the state of Colorado as a manufacture Home, this is the way you should present it to the bank for lending purposes.