FAQ
Why choose a used shipping container?
These compressed steel units are tough, secure, and ready to turn into a building. Our single‑use containers are one‑trip imports that arrive in great condition and then sit unused, making them a smart, low‑cost option. New containers are available, but most people find the extra expense unnecessary because single‑use delivers the same dependable quality.
How are they insulated?
Insulation is the most difficult and important part of container conversions. Our standard container has vapour protection sheeting to guard against the container sweating from moisture build-up inside and temperature changes outside. We also install a fan as standard to ensure constant airflow into the ceiling cavity. Our standard insulation is 75mm moisture-resistant and fire-retardant Earthwool batts which can also be upgraded to 90mm. We also offer full spray foam insulation as an option.
Why don’t you use plaster board?
We prefer to use timber or laminate products to avoid risks of cracking on transport or moisture issues in future, unless marine products are used. Containers, once cut for doors and windows, are more likely to flex despite the reinforcements in place. By ensuring we have no plaster or tiling we are reducing the risk of cracking upon transport or at the location. We use permatimber boards available in five colours because they are hard-wearing, moisture-resistant and don’t require painting.
What about permits?
New laws in Victoria and some other states have made it easy to place a second dwelling on your property. The dwelling must use mains electricty and cannot have plumbing, which still requires a permit.
What about a roof?
Our standard container comes with a small skillion roof that is essential for weather protection. A container without a roof is unbearably hot in summer and will rust quickly due to rain pooling on its original flat roof. If you plan to be comfortable in a container, you need one, with adequate airflow gap. Our roof bracketing system has been designed to easily replace the rafters with longer ones. We keep it small to fit road transport width laws but can supply a bigger roof for assembly on site by a roofer, and help you build a deck too.
Why are the big doors left on?
Our standard container design has the end doors left on to create an extendable space or for use as a modular option with another container. It keeps the container big and flexible. Order them sealed if desired.
What about windows and doors?
We work with local suppliers and have single-glazed and double-glazed options available.
Is the electric connection?
All our containers have mains electric connectivity installed and certified as standard ready for an electrician to connect at your end. Downlights are included with upgrade to lighting of choice available. We have four interior powepoints and one exterior. Diesel heaters are recommended for off-grid set-up (installed through the floor) while solar is also an obvious option. Split systems are the most efficient container heaters and coolers especially if running off a solar battery.
What does the landing site need?
You container site should be flat and settled. Besser blocks are more than adequate as cheap, mobile footings if the ground is flat and the footings are level. Concrete is most suitable for more permanent footings.
Do you deliver?
Delivery is available Australia-wide by a tilt truck so your landing site needs to be able to fit a truck reversing, otherwise a crane may be required. We can support you in preparing your landing site and taking delivery of your container.
How long does a build take?
We offer three-month turnaround on all standard orders.
50% deposit required to start the build and 50% on completion prior to truck departure. All prices exclude GST.
Q: What’s the difference between a steel shipping container conversion and an expandable portable cabin?
Expandable portables (also called accordion cabins or foldable portables) are manufactured overseas from lightweight steel frames and thin-gauge panel systems. They fold out on-site using a hinge mechanism. A steel shipping container conversion starts life as an ISO-rated intermodal freight container — the same units that cross oceans stacked six high on cargo ships. We convert those. The structural starting point is completely different.
Q: What about flat-pack kit cabins? They seem similar.
Flat-pack kits arrive as components and are assembled on-site, usually from steel frames and cladding panels. Quality varies enormously depending on the manufacturer. The main issues are: inconsistent weld quality, thinner gauge steel throughout, and the fact that they’re only as good as the person who assembles them. A shipping container arrives as a single, already-engineered unit. There’s no assembly of the structural shell — it’s done.
Q: How strong is a shipping container compared to these alternatives?
A standard 20ft ISO shipping container is engineered to carry 28 tonnes of cargo and stack six units high at sea — that’s approximately 168 tonnes of load on the corner castings. Nothing in the expandable or flat-pack category comes close to that baseline. We’re not just converting a box — we’re converting one of the most structurally proven steel enclosures in the world.
Q: Do container conversions hold up better long-term?
Yes. Corten steel (the alloy used in shipping containers) is specifically formulated to resist corrosion. When maintained, a shipping container conversion will outlast timber frame, lightweight steel frame, and panel-system alternatives by decades. Many shipping containers still in active freight service are 20–30 years old.
Q: What about insulation and liveability — aren’t containers cold and sweaty?
This is the most common misconception about container conversions. Untreated containers are not pleasant to be in. The work we do at NEAT addresses this directly: insulation, lining, ventilation, and window placement are all part of the conversion. When it’s done properly, a container is no different to any other well-built small structure — and structurally, it’s better than most.
Q: Can I get council approval for a container conversion?
Shipping container conversions are increasingly well-understood by councils and planning departments, particularly in regional Victoria. Because they’re a recognised structure type, they sit within established permit frameworks. Expandable portables and some flat-pack systems can actually face more scrutiny in certain councils because they’re treated as less permanent structures. Always check your specific council’s requirements — we’re happy to help you navigate what’s needed in your area. New laws in Victoria have made dual occupancy with cabins much easier.
NEAT Containers 