Installation Overview
A standard 20ft flat pack container house can be assembled by 3 workers in 2-4 hours. No welding or specialized equipment is required.
Tools Required
| Tool | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Socket wrench set | 2 | Bolt tightening |
| Spirit level | 1 | Level checking |
| Tape measure | 1 | Measurement |
| Rubber mallet | 1 | Panel fitting |
| Caulking gun | 1 | Sealant application |
| Ladder | 1 | Roof access |
| Forklift/crane | 1 | Heavy lifting |
Step-by-Step Installation
Step 1: Foundation Preparation (1-2 hours)
Before the container arrives:
- Pour concrete pad (100mm thick minimum)
- Ensure level surface (±20mm tolerance)
- Size: 100mm larger than container footprint
- Allow concrete to cure 7 days minimum
Step 2: Unpack Components (30 minutes)
When container arrives:
- Carefully unload all packages
- Lay out components on clean surface
- Check packing list for completeness
- Report any missing items immediately
Step 3: Base Frame Assembly (30 minutes)
- Position base frame rails
- Connect using provided bolts
- Tighten to specified torque (40-50 Nm)
- Check diagonals are equal (squareness)
Step 4: Corner Posts (20 minutes)
- Insert corner posts into sockets
- Secure with bolts
- Use spirit level to ensure plumb
- Support posts temporarily if needed
Step 5: Wall Panels (45 minutes)
- Start from one corner
- Slot panel into bottom channel
- Lift and engage top channel
- Bolt to frame and previous panel
- Continue around perimeter
Step 6: Roof Installation (30 minutes)
- Position roof panels
- Ensure 50mm overlap at joints
- Connect to corner posts
- Apply sealant to all joints
Step 7: Door and Windows (20 minutes)
- Install pre-hung door unit
- Install window units
- Check operation
- Apply weather sealing
Step 8: Interior Finishing (30 minutes)
- Apply joint sealant
- Install skirting boards
- Connect electrical fixtures
- Final cleanup
Tips for Successful Installation
- Work on calm days - Wind can make panel handling difficult
- Have extra help - Roof panels are heavy and awkward
- Check level frequently - Small errors compound
- Use provided hardware only - Substitutes may not fit
- Follow the manual - Each model has specific instructions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping foundation level check
- Over-tightening bolts (strips threads)
- Not sealing joints properly
- Installing panels in wrong order
- Forgetting to connect ground wire
Video Installation Guide
Watch our installation video for visual guidance: View Installation Videos
Site Conditions That Decide the Real Schedule
The 2–4 hour assembly figure assumes the site is ready. These four conditions decide whether it holds:
| Condition | Target | If it is missed |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Within ±20 mm across the footprint | Panels bind, doors rack, roof joints leak |
| Drainage | Water falls away from the pad | Standing water at the base, early corrosion |
| Wind | Calm to light | Roof and wall panels become unsafe to handle |
| Access | Truck and forklift reach the pad | Units get dropped short and dragged into place |
A flat, drained pad is worth more than any amount of extra labour on the day.
Foundation Options in Order of Speed
| Foundation | Prep time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete pad | 7+ days cure | Permanent homes, best long-term performance |
| Screw piles or ground screws | Hours to a day | Fast install, re-levellable, good drainage |
| Compacted gravel and sleepers | Hours | Temporary or seasonal use |
| Existing slab with anchors | Immediate | Additions on already-prepared sites |
Where the schedule matters, screw piles or ground screws usually beat concrete because there is no cure time and the unit can be re-levelled after it is set. A concrete pad remains the better long-term choice for a permanent home.
Ready-Before-Delivery Checklist
- Pad complete, level, and drained, with anchor positions marked.
- Power available on site for tools and lighting.
- A certified electrician booked for the final connection.
- A clear place to lay out panels, away from traffic and mud.
- The packing list and the model-specific manual on site.
- Two to three helpers, plus one person on the forklift.
- Weather checked for the whole day, not just the morning.
Quality Checks After Assembly
- Squareness: measure both diagonals of the base frame — they should match.
- Torque: spot-check bolted joints against the specified figure rather than tightening by feel.
- Water test: run a hose over roof joints and panel seams before closing up the interior.
- Doors and windows: open and close freely, with full contact on the gaskets.
- Earthing: confirm the ground connection is made before energising the electrics.
FAQ
How long does installation take?
A 20ft flat pack container house takes 2-4 hours with 3 workers. Larger 40ft units take 4-6 hours.
Do I need special tools?
No, standard hand tools are sufficient. You may need a forklift or crane for heavy panels.
Can I install it myself?
Yes, with basic DIY skills and 2-3 helpers. We provide detailed instructions and video support.
What foundation do I need?
A level concrete pad is ideal. Ground screws or compacted gravel work for temporary installations.
Do you provide installation support?
Yes, we offer remote video guidance and can send on-site supervisors for large projects.
Need Help?
Contact EasiHive for installation support or to arrange on-site supervision for your project.
