Why Some Companies Are (Much) More Expensive Than Others in the Modified Container Industry

Introduction

When comparing quotes for a modified shipping container, you may notice significant price differences — sometimes double, or even more. And naturally, the question arises:
Why does one company charge $20,000 for a project, while another charges $40,000 for something that seems similar on paper?

The answer lies in the technical choices, strategic positioning, and operational methods that each company adopts. In this article, we’ll help you understand what justifies higher prices in this industry — so you can make informed comparisons based on substance, not just cost.

1. A Clearly Assumed High-End Positioning

Some companies choose to position themselves firmly in the premium segment, offering architecturally refined products, durable materials, and fully customised turnkey solutions.

This is the case for Conteneurs Experts. We specialise in designing and building highly customised and technically complex container projects, often intended for professional, commercial or institutional use.

This positioning naturally involves:

• The use of high-performance, durable materials

• The ability to deliver tailored solutions to meet unique needs

• Detailed planning — often in collaboration with engineers

• End-to-end support and accountability

👉 This approach leads to a higher standard of quality and reliability — and as such, it comes with higher costs that reflect the value delivered.

2. A Dedicated In-House Design and Technical Planning Team

At Conteneurs Experts, we have a three-person internal team solely focused on the design and technical drafting of all our container projects.

This kind of in-house capability is rare in our industry.
It represents a significant operational investment, but it allows us to:

• Plan each project precisely and professionally

• Execute with greater accuracy and consistency

• Avoid production delays or technical errors

• Provide clients with well-documented, transparent communication from day one

This is a cornerstone of the quality and service level we aim to deliver.

3. Strategic Use of Subcontractors to Ensure Quality

It's true that some companies rely heavily on subcontractors — sometimes for logistical reasons — which can increase the final price due to added markups at each stage.

At Conteneurs Experts, we also work with subcontractors — but always strategically, to uphold industry standards and ensure technical quality.

For example:

• We delegate all electrical and plumbing work to certified professionals.

• We ensure all installations are performed according to recognised codes and safety best practices.

• We believe in working with experts, not pretending to be experts in areas outside our core expertise.

This may result in slightly higher costs, but it guarantees a safe, compliant, and reliable end product.

4. Higher Operating Costs

Location, company size, and internal structure also influence pricing.

For example:

• A company operating in a major metropolitan area with higher rent and labour costs must account for these expenses in their pricing.

• A heavily layered management structure can also lead to higher administrative overhead.

While these costs aren’t always visible in a quote, they directly affect the final price.

5. Accelerated Timelines or Premium Service Levels

Some companies offer very short turnaround times or exceptional production flexibility. This may involve:

• Overtime labour

• Priority scheduling

• Rush-order material purchases at higher costs

These services come at a premium, but they offer a valuable solution when time is critical.

6. A Strong Brand Presence… That Carries a Price

In certain cases, part of the price reflects the company’s market visibility or brand positioning. A well-known company operating in a niche segment, with high media exposure or a strong design aesthetic, may command higher prices based on perceived value.

That doesn’t mean the product lacks quality — but it’s worth distinguishing between the cost of the container itself and the cost of the brand experience.

Conclusion

A higher price isn’t necessarily inflated — it often reflects a completely different approach:

• Superior material choices

• More robust planning and execution

• Professionally certified tradespeople

• Technical drawing and design teams

• Structured production processes

• Premium customer support throughout the project

At Conteneurs Experts, we fully embrace our high-end positioning. We believe complex projects deserve a precise, uncompromising execution — and that belief is reflected in our pricing.

Our rates are fair, transparent, and aligned with the quality we deliver.