Shipping container architecture is a form of architecture using steel intermodal containers (shipping containers) as the main structural element. It is also referred to as cargotecture, a portmanteau of cargo with architecture, or "arkitainer". This form of architecture is often intertwined with the tiny house movement, as well as the sustainable living movement. The use of containers as a building material has grown in popularity due to their strength, wide availability, and relatively low cost. Homes have also been built with containers because they are seen as more eco-friendly than traditional building materials such as brick and cement. Advantages Customized Due to their shape and material, shipping containers can be modified to fit various purposes. Strength and durability Shipping containers are designed to be stacked in high columns and carrying heavy loads. They are also designed to resist harsh environments, such as on ocean-going vessels or sprayed with road salt while transported on roads. Modular All shipping containers are the same width, and most have two standard height and length measurements. As such, they provide modular elements that can be combined into larger structures. This simplifies design, planning, and transport as they are already designed to interlock for ease of mobility during transportation, structural construction is completed by simply emplacing them. Due to the containers' modular design, additional construction is as easy as stacking more containers. They can be stacked up to 12 units high when empty. Labor The welding and cutting of steel is considered to be specialized labor, and can increase construction expenses. Yet, overall, it is still lower than conventional construction. Unlike wood-frame construction, attachments must be welded or drilled to the outer skin, which is more time-consuming, and requires different job site equipment. Transport As they already conform to standard shipping sizes, pre-fabricated modules can be easily transported by ship, truck, or rail. Availability As a result of their widespread use, new and used shipping containers are available globally. Expense One of the major perks of buying container homes is that they are quite affordable. Depending on the requirements and material used, a container home will cost less compared to traditional homes Eco-friendly A 40 ft shipping container weighs over 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs, or 551 stone). When upcycling shipping containers, thousands of kilograms of steel are saved. In addition, when building with containers, the quantities of traditional building materials needed (i.e. bricks and cement) are