Question 1

What is the difference between a cabin and a container?

Accepted Answer

A cabin is a shipping container that we convert into a liveable space — insulated, lined, and fitted. A container is a plain steel shipping container sold as-is, with no fit-out. Choose a cabin when you want a ready interior. Choose a container when you want a shell for storage, transport, or your own work.

Question 2

What site do I need for a cabin?

Accepted Answer

You need a level, stable pad sized for the cabin, plus clear truck access for delivery. Soft ground, overhead wires, trees, and tight gates can delay placement. Share photos and measurements of the access route when you request a quote.

Question 3

Is a cabin ready to occupy when it arrives?

Accepted Answer

Turnkey cabins are insulated, lined, and fitted for living. You still need a suitable pad, delivery access, and connection to power, water, and waste before you move in. Exact inclusions are listed on each product page.

Question 4

Can I use a cabin as a granny flat or rental?

Accepted Answer

Many buyers use cabins as extra accommodation, a studio, or a granny flat. Whether that use is allowed on your block depends on council rules, setbacks, and services. Confirm with your local council before you order.

Question 5

Who connects power, water, and waste?

Accepted Answer

Unless quoted otherwise, connection to mains power, water, and waste is arranged by you with licensed trades. Cabins Direct can advise typical service points for the cabin you order.

Question 6

Are your containers converted or fitted out?

Accepted Answer

No. Containers listed under Containers are plain steel shells sold as-is. If you want openings, insulation, electrical, plumbing, or a liveable interior, that is a cabin — see the Cabins range.

Question 7

Do I need a crane to place a container?

Accepted Answer

Most 20ft and 40ft units are craned or tilt-tray delivered onto a prepared pad. Corner castings are designed for a crane lift. Confirm access, overhead clearance, and crane capacity with your yard before delivery.

Question 8

Are your containers new or used?

Accepted Answer

Both can be available. Condition is listed on each product page. New units are unused shells. Used units are inspected on the yard and sold as plain containers. Ask your yard if you need photos of a specific unit.

Question 9

Can I use a container as an office, workshop, or storage?

Accepted Answer

A plain container suits storage and many site uses. If you need a fitted office, workshop, or liveable interior, that is a cabin conversion — browse Cabins rather than Containers.

Question 10

What sizes do you offer?

Accepted Answer

The most common sizes are 20ft and 40ft, including high-cube options. Exact length, width, height, tare, and payload are listed on each product page. Confirm the footprint against your pad and access before you order.

Question 11

How long is the warranty on my cabin or container?

Accepted Answer

All new Cabins Direct cabins and containers are covered by a 12-month warranty from the date of delivery, covering defects in material and workmanship under normal use. Structural cover is confirmed at the time of sale. This warranty applies to new units only and is non-transferable.

Question 12

What does the warranty cover?

Accepted Answer

The warranty covers defects in our assembly work under normal use, including structure, exterior finish as supplied, and fitted plumbing or electrical work that we installed. Parts and labour for approved defects are handled through our yards.

Question 13

What is NOT covered by the warranty?

Accepted Answer

The following are excluded: consumable wear items; mould or rust caused by weather, poor ventilation, or improper storage; damage from misuse, overloading, accidents, or site conditions beyond design limits; paint and stone-chip damage after delivery; and third-party branded appliances or components, which are covered under their own manufacturer warranties.

Question 14

Is the warranty transferable if I sell my cabin or container?

Accepted Answer

No. The warranty is non-transferable and applies to the original purchaser only.

Question 15

What can void my warranty?

Accepted Answer

Your warranty may be voided by: failing to follow care procedures in the Warranty & Service Handbook; using the unit beyond its rated load or intended use; unauthorised structural changes; using unauthorised aftermarket parts; or failing to report defects promptly so damage can worsen.

Question 16

How do I make a warranty claim?

Accepted Answer

Submit a Warranty Claim Form through our Warranty & Repair page as soon as the issue becomes apparent. Include proof of purchase, photos and a written description of the defect, your contact details, and the unit identification. Claims are typically processed within 14 days of receipt.

Question 17

Can I take my unit to any repairer for warranty work?

Accepted Answer

No. All warranty repairs must be directed by the Cabins Direct Warranty Department. Do not engage an external repairer without prior written approval. Costs of unauthorised repairs will not be reimbursed. If an inspection by a non-authorised repairer is unavoidable, reimbursement is capped at $80.

Question 18

Are ongoing services included in the purchase price?

Accepted Answer

No. Aftercare, inspections, and any scheduled maintenance are billed separately at your yard or an authorised service agent. They are not included in the purchase price.

Question 19

What care does a cabin or container need?

Accepted Answer

Keep seals, gutters, and door hardware clean. Check for water ingress after heavy rain. Service appliances to the manufacturer’s schedule. Air the interior if the unit is unused for long periods. Follow the care notes in the Warranty & Service Handbook.

Question 20

Where can I get my unit looked at?

Accepted Answer

Book through an authorised Cabins Direct yard or an Authorised Service Agent. Keep receipts — they help if you later lodge a warranty claim.

Question 21

What should I prepare before a service visit or drop-off?

Accepted Answer

Book an appointment in advance. Remove personal belongings, unlock compartments and doors, and tell us about any known faults. Drop-off and collection are available during weekday business hours only.

Question 22

How much deposit is required to place an order?

Accepted Answer

A minimum deposit of 10% of the total purchase price is required upon order confirmation.

Question 23

Is there a cooling off period?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A 7-day cooling-off period applies from the date of your order. During this time, you may cancel and receive a full refund of your deposit. After 7 days, refund decisions are at the sole discretion of Cabins Direct. Special or custom orders cannot be cancelled once placed.

Question 24

Can I return my cabin or container?

Accepted Answer

Returns may be considered within 24 hours of receiving the unit, subject to written approval from Cabins Direct Head Office. The item must be returned unused and undamaged. A 20% restocking and administration fee applies to approved returns. Delivery and site costs already incurred are non-refundable.

Question 25

What items cannot be returned?

Accepted Answer

The following cannot be returned: special or custom-order units; items that have been used, assembled, or installed on site; products without original packaging where applicable; spare parts, accessories, and consumables; and any unit that has been connected to services or occupied.

Question 26

How are refunds processed?

Accepted Answer

Refunds are issued by direct deposit only, into an Australian bank account held in the name of the purchaser. Processing typically takes 5–10 business days once banking details are received. If the original purchase was financed, the refund is paid directly to the finance provider.

Question 27

Who pays for transport if I need to return a unit?

Accepted Answer

The purchaser is responsible for all costs associated with returning an approved item. Cabins Direct does not cover return freight.

Question 28

When does ownership of my cabin or container transfer to me?

Accepted Answer

Ownership passes to you once full payment has been received and cleared by Cabins Direct. Until that point, the unit remains the property of Cabins Direct.

Question 29

When does the risk of damage pass to me?

Accepted Answer

Risk of damage or loss passes to you at the point of delivery. Arrange comprehensive insurance before or on the day you take possession.

Question 30

What delivery options are available?

Accepted Answer

Yard pickup is our recommended option — it allows a thorough handover. Freight delivery by truck is available on request. Crane or tilt-tray placement can be arranged where the site requires it. Contact your nearest Cabins Direct yard for a freight quote.

Question 31

How long does delivery take?

Accepted Answer

All delivery timeframes are estimates only. In-stock modules can generally be collected after purchase is completed. Freight typically takes 1–4 weeks depending on your location. Custom-order lead times are confirmed when you order.

Question 32

Are there storage fees if I cannot collect my unit on time?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you are unable to collect your unit within 24 hours of the scheduled delivery or collection time, storage fees may apply. Collections and deliveries are available during weekday business hours only.

Question 33

How is a cabin or container delivered to site?

Accepted Answer

Units are typically delivered by truck. Site access, crane or forklift, and a level pad must be confirmed before delivery. It is your responsibility to ensure the site can accept the load and that any required permits or traffic management are in place.

Question 34

What site access do you need?

Accepted Answer

We need a clear, stable access path for a delivery truck and, where specified, a crane or forklift. Overhead wires, trees, gates, and soft ground can delay or prevent placement. Share photos and measurements of the access route when you request a quote.

Question 35

Who is responsible for crane and site works?

Accepted Answer

Unless quoted otherwise, crane hire, earthworks, foundations, and connection to services are the purchaser’s responsibility. Cabins Direct can advise on typical pad sizes and service points for the unit you order.

Question 36

Do I need council approval?

Accepted Answer

Council and building-approval requirements vary by council, site, and intended use. Cabins Direct supplies the product. Permits, site works, and connections are the purchaser’s responsibility unless we have quoted them separately. Check with your local council before you order.

Question 37

Are Cabins Direct units cyclone rated?

Accepted Answer

No. Cabins Direct cabins and containers are not cyclone rated. In the event of a cyclone warning or natural disaster, leave the unit and seek shelter in a solid, permanent structure immediately.

Question 38

Are the listed weights exact?

Accepted Answer

Weights listed in our specifications are estimates only. Actual weights may vary due to manufacturing tolerances, optional extras, and component variations. Always verify the weight of your specific unit before transport or crane lift, and ensure equipment capacity is not exceeded.

Question 39

How should I store my unit when it is not in use?

Accepted Answer

Turn off fridges and leave doors ajar to reduce mould. Switch off power sources including inverters and chargers if fitted. Charge batteries at least once a month during long storage. Store undercover where possible, and air the unit regularly to prevent moisture build-up.

Question 40

What should I do if I notice water getting in?

Accepted Answer

Open the unit as soon as it is safe after rain and inspect for water ingress. Check seals as part of routine care. If water is entering through the roof or walls within the warranty period, submit a Warranty Claim Form immediately — do not delay, as prolonged moisture can worsen damage.

Question 41

Is Cabins Direct assembled in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cabins Direct cabins are converted in Australia. Containers are inspected and sold as plain steel shells. Both use a mix of Australian-made and globally sourced components where fitted.

Question 42

Do you recommend insurance for my cabin or container?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Arrange comprehensive insurance before taking delivery, as risk transfers to you at that point. A $395 administration fee applies if we are required to assist with insurance assessments or reports.

FAQ

Cabins

Containers

Warranty

Care & Maintenance

Returns & Deposits

Delivery & Ownership

Transport & Site

Ownership & Care

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