Shipping container cafe: Benefits & popular ideas [+how to find containers for cafes]

A shipping container cafe is unique and provides a great alternative to traditional structures. Read this blog to learn about popular cafe designs, plus how you can source shipping containers at the best prices for your next project.  

As a shipping container modifier, your priority is to have a continuous supply of containers at the best prices. But this can be difficult if you’re relying on your local sourcing method, as they may not have the containers you’re looking for at the prices that suit your budget. 

That’s where the Container xChange marketplace can help you. On our online container trading platform, you get access to an online inventory of 100,000+ containers in 2,500+ locations, all in one place. 

Use the public search below to browse and compare container offers in your desired location now!

Find containers for your next shipping container cafe project

If it’s part of your business to create shipping container cafes and do other container modifications, you know how important it is to get containers at the best prices. On the Container xChange trading marketplace, you can choose from 1,700+ vetted sellers. Here are the benefits of choosing xChange over your local sourcing channel. 

-Reliable suppliers: Before joining xChange, all members undergo a mandatory background check. Every supplier has a public profile with reviews and ratings visible, so you can be sure you’ll find high-quality containers without worrying about shipping container scams.

-Negotiable prices: Once you’ve found the right seller, reach out to them directly on the marketplace to negotiate and discuss the final container price. It’s quicker and more convenient than chasing sellers via emails and phone calls.

Standard quality: We’ve implemented standardized definitions for container conditions to enhance the accuracy of our listings. Sellers on our platform use these definitions in their contracts to describe the condition of containers. After the release of the container(s), you get 7 days to inspect the condition. If a container doesn’t meet the agreed criteria, we offer support and mediation, making xChange the marketplace with the most predictable and reliable container quality.

Want to check container deals in your location? Simply click the banner below to get started!

What is a shipping container cafe? 

A shipping container cafe is a unique and eco-friendly establishment built from repurposed shipping containers. These cafes offer a trendy, industrial aesthetic and are often more cost-effective and quicker to construct than brick-and-mortar establishments. They can be easily relocated, making them a flexible option for pop-up shops and urban spaces.

What are the benefits of a container cafe? 

A shipping container is customizable, sustainable, quick to build, and more cost-effective than traditional cafes. Read on to know more. 

Customizable 

A cafe container provides endless possibilities and can be tailored to fit specific branding and design requirements. The modular nature of containers means they can be easily expanded or modified to meet changing business needs. Additionally, their sturdy structure supports various interior design options, from cozy seating arrangements to open, airy spaces.

Energy-efficient and sustainable

When you build a container café, you’re essentially repurposing shipping containers, reducing waste and the need for new materials. To make the cafe more sustainable, you can incorporate renewable energy sources. We’ll discuss more about this later in the blog. 

Time savings 

Shipping container cafe conversions take less time than building traditional brick-and-mortar cafes. You can quickly assemble and modify shipping containers because the basic structure is already ready. 

Portability 

Another advantage of container cafes is their exceptional portability. You can easily move your cafe to different locations or cater to multiple events. This mobility lets you adapt to market demands, explore new areas, and capitalize on seasonal or temporary opportunities. All while maintaining the integrity and functionality of your cafe setup. However, make sure you’re adhering to the shipping container zoning laws of the area you’re setting up your cafe in. 

Cost-effective

Building a cafe in a shipping container is cost-effective due to the efficient construction process and reduced material costs compared to traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. Utilizing shipping containers significantly cuts down on initial investment expenses. Let’s explore more about this in the next section.

How much does a shipping container cafe cost? 

Shipping container cafes usually cost 20-30% less than traditional brick cafes. While a brick cafe can range from $200,000 to $500,000 to build, a container cafe typically costs between $50,000 and $200,000.

The price of a container cafe largely depends on the price of the shipping container itself. The average price of a new 20ft shipping container in the US is $1,890. For cargo-worthy condition, you’re looking at $1,320. 

For a larger cafe space, you can choose 40ft containers. The average price of a new 40ft container is $3,540 in the US. For an affordable option, opt for cargo-worthy, which will cost just $1,610. 

It’s easier to get the containers you’re looking for, at the prices you’re comfortable with on xChange. Simply click the banner below to explore container offers in your preferred location today. 

Popular shipping container cafe designs 

There are different ways in which you can design container cafes. Here are some popular ideas. 

Shipping container coffee shop 

Container coffee shops offer an innovative and sustainable option for cafe businesses. These coffee shops are gaining popularity as they’re affordable to build, and offer customers a great option for take-away coffee.

Outdoor container cafe

While some cafe owners prefer indoor seating, container cafes also provide a great option for outdoor seating as well. The modular design of containers allows for easy customization and adaptation to different outdoor settings, making them an ideal choice for seasonal or event-driven dining.

Cafe shipping container restaurant 

Apart from building a cafe, you can also build a dining container restaurant from shipping containers. Read our detailed blog on shipping container restaurants for more information.

Container bar

A shipping container bar is made out of new or used cargo containers that have been repurposed. These bars are perfect for events due to their versatility. They provide a unique bar experience and can be easily customized to fit the theme or ambiance of any occasion.

Now that you know the different cafe container designs, let’s understand how to modify containers into cafes. 

How to build a Connex cafe?

To build a container cafe you need to decide the size of the container and customize it as per your requirements. Let’s look at this in more detail below.

Determine the size of the container cafeteria 

Shipping containers come in different sizes. The first step is to consider the amount of space you need for a converted shipping container cafe. A standard 20ft container is suitable for a trendy small cafe design, while a 40ft container provides more room for larger setups. You can also combine several containers to create welcoming community gathering spaces.

Customize the design 

Once you’ve chosen the right size, find a design that fits your brand and operational needs. Incorporate features like large windows for natural light, menu boards, a rooftop deck for additional seating or ambiance, and efficient lighting systems. Install a well-equipped kitchen and consider an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system to ensure comfort year-round. 

Fulfill safety and health measures 

Prioritize the health and safety of your cafe by ensuring compliance with local regulations. Use materials that meet food-grade standards, install proper ventilation systems to maintain air quality, and implement effective waste management practices. Additionally, ensure adequate space for staff movement and customer seating to adhere to safety protocols.

Find a trusted container provider 

When building a container cafe, finding a trusted container provider is crucial for quality and reliability. That’s where Container xChange can help you. Read on to learn how you can source containers from trusted suppliers for your container cafe project. 

Get containers for cafe from vetted suppliers on xChange

Finding containers for your next shipping container cafe modification is easy on the Container xChange marketplace. 

Here are the simple steps for buying containers that suit your needs and budget, all in one place: 

-Browse and compare offers: Choose the container size and condition on our trading platform and browse multiple offers from vetted sellers. 

-Negotiate prices directly with the seller: Once you find the perfect offer, reach out to the seller directly to negotiate and finalize the deal.

-Make safe payments: We understand that it can seem risky to make payments to new suppliers. That’s why we offer the safe payment handling feature on xChange. When everything is finalized, pay for your containers securely, directly on the platform. Additionally, reach out to our support team easily if you have any questions or concerns. 

Here’s what the CEO of E-Containers, a key player in the container trading industry in the US has to say about the Container xChange marketplace:

“We ensure that the condition of containers aligns with our buying and selling standards. Doing business on xChange promotes fairness; buyers are protected, and sellers strive to deliver as promised”

Read more about how E-container established approximately 50 new partnerships and transacts 25% of its monthly business volume through Container xChange.

If you want to buy containers from reliable sellers, xChange is the right platform for you. Simply click the banner below to explore container offers for your next container cafe project today! 

Shpiping container cafe: Common FAQs

How to build a shipping container cafe?

To build a shipping container cafe, start by sourcing a reputable container provider for customization. Ensure compliance with local regulations and consider factors like design customization, utility installation, and interior outfitting to create a functional and appealing cafe space.

What are the popular shipping container cafe ideas?

Some popular shipping container cafe ideas include shipping container coffee bars, outdoor container cafes, container restaurants, and container bars.

What are the sizes available for shipping container cafes?

Some common sizes for shipping container cafes include the 10ft container, 20ft container, and 40ft container. For more space, you can also choose 20ft and 40ft high cube containers.