Buying Container Houses for Export: Ordering, Shipping and Installation Checklist

A container house order crosses three fields that rarely sit with one person — construction specification, export logistics and site installation. Most problems in this trade come from a gap between them. This checklist sets out what to agree before the deposit is paid.

1. Define the Building Requirement

• Purpose: housing, office, welfare, commercial or storage
• Floor area and number of rooms required
• Fit-out level: shell, semi-finished or turnkey
• Climate and expected temperature range
• Destination electrical standard — voltage, frequency, socket type
• Local regulatory or permit requirements, if any

2. Confirm the Specification in Writing

3. Agree Commercial Terms

• Price basis — ex-works, FOB, CIF or delivered, with the scope of each stated.
• Minimum order quantity — commonly one container, but confirm per model.
• Payment terms — deposit and balance schedule against production and shipping documents.
• Lead time — production period plus inland transport to port.
• Inspection — whether a pre-shipment inspection is permitted, and by whom.
• Documentation — packing list, test or conformity documents, certificate of origin, installation drawings.

4. Prepare the Site Before Dispatch

• Level, load-bearing base with drainage away from the unit
• Confirmed access route for the delivery vehicle and lifting equipment
• Water, power and drainage available at the connection point
• Working clearance for unfolding or assembly
• A named person on site to receive and supervise unloading

5. Receive, Install and Commission

1. Inspect the goods against the packing list before signing the delivery receipt.
2. Photograph any transit damage immediately and notify the supplier the same day.
3. Check panel, frame and seal condition before assembly begins.
4. Follow the supplied assembly or unfolding drawings in sequence.
5. Seal all joints, then connect and test electrical, water and drainage systems.
6. Record the completed installation and retain the documents for warranty purposes.

6. Frequently Reported Problems

• Electrical standard mismatched to the destination market
• Missing fittings or fasteners from the accessory pack
• Panel damage caused by inadequate packing or careless unloading
• Site not level, causing doors and windows to bind
• No assembly drawings or installation guidance provided
• Loading quantity assumed rather than calculated

Frequently Asked Questions