When exploring prefabricated container housing solutions, you'll have two popular options: Detachable Container Houses and Flat-pack Container Houses. While both types of prefabricated housing offer distinct advantages, they differ significantly in structural design, transportation methods, installation, and applications.
DXH House is a professional Chinese container housing supplier with over 10 years of experience manufacturing both types. We have delivered thousands of units to construction sites, commercial developments, and residential projects worldwide. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know, comparing them across multiple dimensions—including materials, construction processes, and cost-effectiveness—to help you quickly identify the prefabricated container building solution best suited to your needs.
Detachable container houses, also known as "quick assembly containers," are modular steel-frame structures designed for maximum flexibility and reusability. These units ship completely disassembled, with every component—columns, beams, wall panels, roof sections, and floor frames—packed separately and connected on-site using bolts and fastening screws.

Flat-pack container homes enable rapid assembly of complete homes, offering easy relocation, convenient storage, and the ability to be reused multiple times as temporary housing. These units feature factory-welded top and bottom frames, with wall panels and other components shipped separately for on-site assembly.

| Comparison Factor | Detachable Container Houses | Flat Pack Container Houses |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly Difficulty | Moderate - all components bolt together Requires careful alignment More connection points |
Easy - fewer components Pre-welded frames simplify process |
| Structural Stability | Good - relies on bolt tightness 2-3 level stacking capacity |
Excellent - welded construction 3-4 level stacking capacity |
| Waterproofing | Good - external drainage system Requires proper sealing maintenance Drainage holes around perimeter |
Excellent - integrated internal drainage Factory-welded components Built-in gutter system with column pipes |
| Reusability | Excellent - disassemble/reassemble Perfect for relocating projects No structural degradation with proper handling |
Good - can relocate but more complex disassembly |
| Relocation Flexibility | Superior - designed for mobility Quick breakdown and setup Ideal for temporary projects |
Moderate - possible but more involved Pre-welded frames harder to transport Better for permanent installations |
| Weather Performance | Good for moderate climates Requires upgrades for extreme conditions Suitable for most applications |
Excellent for all climates Superior in harsh environments Coastal, desert, and snow-rated |
| Best Applications | • Construction site offices • Temporary worker dormitories • Mobile security booths • Event venues • Emergency shelters • Mining camps (1-5 years) |
• Permanent residences • Commercial buildings • Schools & healthcare • Tourist resorts • Long-term worker housing • Quality-focused projects |


As a certified manufacturer since 2008, DXH Container House has delivered over 10,000 container housing units across 50+ countries. Our advantages include:
Both detachable and flat pack container houses offer significant environmental advantages over traditional construction:
Request a quote and let DXH House help you build better and faster with modular solutions.
Both types of houses support vertical stacking. For projects with specific floor requirements, consult our structural engineers and ensure your foundation can bear the load.
For harsh climates with frequent high winds, heavy snowfall, or seismic activity, flat-pack container homes are the superior choice. Their welded frames provide greater structural rigidity and weather resistance. However, reinforced specifications of demountable homes also perform well in most scenarios.
Both assembled and flat-pack homes offer extensive customization options, including:
- Interior layouts and partitions
- Insulation material types (EPS, rock wool, PU foam)
- Exterior wall finishes (wood grain, marble texture, solid colors)
- Door and window styles
- Electrical and plumbing configurations
- HVAC systems
- Bathroom and kitchen fixtures
Both housing types comply with CE, ISO 9001 standards, and local building codes in most regions. Key features include:
- Fire-resistant materials (Class A or B panels)
- Seismic-resistant steel structural frame
- Non-toxic interior materials
- Comprehensive ventilation system
- Electrical safety certification
- Concrete slab foundation (most common)
- Pile-beam foundation
- Screw pile foundation
- Strip concrete foundation
Foundation selection depends on soil conditions, local regulations, and project requirements. For temporary installations, concrete piles or screw piles offer faster installation and easier dismantling.
We offer multiple support options:
- Detailed installation manuals with photos
- Assembly video tutorials
- Remote technical consultation
- On-site installation training
- Full installation services (for large-scale projects)
Most clients with basic construction experience can install our equipment using our comprehensive guides.
Our hours
Monday to Sunday: 9 AM - 6 PM
(all hours are Eastern Time)