People have repurposed shipping containers into nearly any thinkable building type. Homes? Check. Apartments? Check. Container barn ideas? Check!
Thanks to the numerous benefits of using shipping containers as buildings, it becomes obvious how people see container barns as reliable barns in their farmsteads.
To give you an idea of what a barn from a shipping container looks like, let’s see the benefits and idea recommendations to build one!
Also Read: Shipping Container vs Shed as Home Storage: Which One?
Benefits of Container Barns over Traditional Barns
Cost Efficiency
Cost-effectiveness makes so many people interested in container barn ideas. You can buy a new or used shipping container with only a fraction of the cost of traditional building materials.
Shipping containers are readily available and often come in various sizes, so you can choose one (or several) that fit your needs.
While a wooden barn requires purchasing timber, nails, roofing materials, and other construction components, shipping containers are pre-built, meaning you only need to make modifications to suit your purpose.
Durability
When it comes to durability, shipping containers have the upper hand. Built from heavy-duty steel, containers can withstand the harshest environments, from saltwater air to extreme weather conditions.
Containers can survive international transport and handle rough handling, making them incredibly durable and long-lasting.
A steel container will remain intact under wind, rain, snow, or heat—whereas wood, over time, is vulnerable to rot, termites, and the general wear and tear of the elements.
In terms of longevity, a wooden barn may require regular maintenance, including staining, sealing, and replacing parts that degrade over time.
Flexibility & Customization
Shipping container barns offer design flexibility and customization that traditional wooden barns can’t easily match.
Containers are modular by nature, which means they can be stacked, combined, or even stacked and moved around to suit your preferred layout.
Whether you need a small, compact barn or a large structure with separate areas for livestock and equipment, the versatility of shipping containers allows you to tailor the design to meet your needs.
In contrast, while you can customize wooden barns, you are still working within the constraints of a single structure.
Sustainability
Building a barn from shipping containers is more sustainable than using new wood.
Containers are often repurposed from their original use in international shipping, which means you’re giving them a second life instead of sending them to a scrapyard.
By choosing to reuse containers, you’re helping reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing new building materials.
On the other hand, building a traditional wooden barn requires cutting down trees, which both contribute to deforestation and uses more resources and energy to process the wood.
Shipping Container Barn Ideas
Now that we know how useful shipping containers are as building blocks, here are some container barn ideas you can follow for your farm!
Single Shipping Container Barn
If you’re looking for a small and simple barn, one shipping container might be all you need. A 20-foot container provides plenty of space for storing tools, equipment, or even small livestock.
You can insulate the container for better temperature control and add a basic door or window for access. This is the most budget-friendly option for those with limited space or a storage solution.
Two-Container Livestock Barn
Consider using two shipping containers you can stack or place side by side if you want a slightly larger barn. This setup gives you more space to house chickens, goats, or pigs.
By placing the containers next to each other, you can cut out a portion of the wall to create a larger open area for animals to move around. You can also make a small corridor or tack room for feeding and maintenance.
Stacked Containers Barn
Stack the containers if you have limited ground space but still need a large barn.
The stacked design allows for a multi-level barn, with the lower level serving as an animal shelter and the upper level as storage or a workshop.
You can use ramps or stairs to access the upper level, and with a little creativity, you can even add windows or skylights to make the upper space more livable.
Barn with Storage and Workshop
A shipping container barn doesn’t have to be all about animals. You can combine a storage area for farming equipment with a workshop for repairs and maintenance.
For example, one container can house your tractor, mower, and other tools, while the other can be used as a workshop with benches, shelving, and power tools.
This setup is ideal for those who want to organize their space and keep everything in one location.
Shipping Container Barn with Loft
If a sophisticated design is your preference, consider adding a loft to your shipping container barn.
By cutting out part of the roof and adding a loft, you can create an upper level for extra storage or even a small living space.
This is a great idea if you plan on using your barn as a workshop or need additional room for tools and supplies.
The loft can be accessed by a ladder or a set of stairs, depending on your preference.
Barn with Open Sides
Sometimes, you don’t need walls for your barn, especially if it’s for hay or equipment storage.
A creative idea is to use shipping containers with open sides, leaving the center area open for easy access.
This open design makes it easier to move large items in and out of the barn, while the containers still provide secure storage on the ends for smaller tools or feed.
Shipping Container Barn with Solar Panels
For an eco-friendly and energy-efficient barn, install solar panels on the roof of your shipping container barn.
Solar panels will help power your barn’s lighting and any small appliances or equipment you use. If you’re working off-grid, this can be an excellent way to reduce your energy costs and carbon footprint.
Barn with Sliding Doors
To give your shipping container barn a more traditional barn feel, install sliding doors on the front or side of the containers.
Sliding doors are space-saving and can be customized to suit your needs. You can create large openings for moving animals in and out or accessing large equipment.
Repurposed Shipping Container Chicken Coop
Who knew you could also make a cozy chicken coop from a repurposed shipping container?
Add ventilation, nesting boxes, and a secure area for chickens to roam. If you stack two containers, you can create a multi-level chicken coop, giving the chickens more space to move around.
With a little modification, this can be an inexpensive yet effective solution for raising poultry.
Shipping Container Barn with a Green Roof
If you’re looking to blend your barn with nature, consider creating a green roof for your shipping container barn.
A green roof can help with insulation and reduce runoff, while also providing a space for plants to grow.
Additional Tips for Building Your Shipping Container Barn
Following these tips can help maximize your container barn’s utility,
Choose the Right Containers
When selecting shipping containers, make sure you choose ones that are in good condition.
Look for containers that are free from rust, major dents, and holes. At the same time, you should only rely on trusted vendors like Tradecorp that always maintain the quality of their containers, be they new or used containers.
Proper Ventilation
Airflow is essential in any barn, especially if you plan on housing animals or storing hay. Proper ventilation helps prevent heat buildup and allows for moisture to escape.
You can install vents, windows, or even a skylight to ensure air circulation. If you’re using containers for livestock, it’s particularly important to maintain fresh airflow to prevent respiratory issues.
Insulate for Temperature Control
Depending on where you live, insulating your shipping container barn might be necessary to keep it comfortable for both animals and equipment.
There are various insulation options available, such as foam board, spray foam, or reflective insulation to help regulate the temperature and protect your belongings from extreme weather conditions.
Foundation and Site Preparation
Although shipping containers are sturdy, they still need a solid foundation to ensure they sit level and are stable.
Whether you choose a concrete slab, gravel, or wooden supports, the foundation should be level and durable to avoid shifting or sinking over time.
Permits and Regulations
Before you begin, always check with your local zoning and building authorities.
Shipping container barns are a relatively new trend, and some municipalities may have specific building codes, permits, or restrictions regarding their use. Be sure to consult local regulations to avoid any issues down the road.
Also Read: Backyard Shipping Container Shed FAQs and Helpful Info
Conclusion
The wealth of container barn ideas you can follow proves how flexible shipping containers are as alternative building blocks. To build the best and most high-value barns for your stead, contact Tradecorp today to find the best convertible container! With over 35 years of comprehensive experience in the industry, Tradecorp leads the industry with its wide array of high-quality containers of all types.