At VanHomes, we believe in providing all of the information about our market to our customers. Recently, we have seen more and more imitations coming to market, which we often get questions about or asked what the difference is.
We've summarised the key differences between our range and imported imitations below.
Imported Folding Container Homes
Cheaper Price Point
As consumers, we're looking for the best price for our products. Sometimes the price point needs to be balanced with the item's quality as a cheaper price does not always mean it is the best value for money . A cheaper price point can mean inexpensive materials and corners being cut in the manufacturing process.
Requires approval
Because these imported Folding Container Homes are not registrable caravans, they cannot be exempt from building approval like VanHomes are. They will require building approval to be used as a permanent place of habitation. Please be aware of importers who offer a trailer option for the imported Folding Container Home and claim that by doing this, it can be classified as a caravan. This will not meet the Motor Vehicle Standards for it to be classified as a caravan.
Expensive trucking fees
These cannot be towed like a caravan and, therefore, need to be transported on a Hiab Crane truck or Tilt-Tray truck. If you've ever had to hire a tow truck for a long journey, you'll know how expensive this exercise can be.
Harder to relocate
Whilst these can be folded up quickly like a VanHome, the fact that they are not on wheels means that they will not be able to be removed soon in case of an emergency.
Not Australian Made
Imported Folding Container Homes are mass-manufactured overseas in countries where speed over quality is often the priority. There is no guarantee that Electrical & Plumbing work meet Australian Standards putting your safety and your investment at risk.
Many Resellers
There are many resellers of this same imported product here in Australia. This leads to inconsistent pricing and often no warranty on the product, as the resellers are not the manufacturers. We recommend checking what warranties are offered and if the supplier has a warranty and service division when you research this product.
One-material construction
These products are made entirely of SIPS panels, which means there is no framework inside the walls. The walls are made of a thin metal skin with styrofoam in between. This offers excellent insulation but lowers the structural integrity of the unit significantly in comparison to a VanHomes that has welded wall frames creating a monolithic structure between the walls and chassis.
VanHomes
Australian Made and Family owned
Since 2008, VanHomes has been dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions Australia-wide. Manufactured in our Berkeley Vale Factory, over 1,000 VanHomes have been built and delivered to happy customers nationwide.
A family-owned and operated business, VanHomes understands that customers want peace of mind when organising high-quality accommodation solutions for themselves or loved ones. These imported Container Folding Homes are built to a budget, whereas VanHomes are built to a standard. I'd like you to please read more about what we do.
No Council Approval
One of the key contributors to VanHome's success is that they do not require building approval in NSW and some areas in other states because they are legally registered caravans.
You can read about your council bypass here.
Easily Relocatable
Because VanHomes are registrable caravans, they are easily towed to the site and installed but can also be packed up quickly. You are being easily maneuvered into position on-site, which means getting these in the tightest spots. We deliver and install the VanHome rather than the imported Container Folding Homes that are dropped off in your front yard for you to move into your rear yard.
Built to Australian Standards
VanHomes are manufactured here in Australia from the ground up, scratched out of high-quality, long-lasting materials. Combining aluminium and steel wall frames, residential grade windows and doors, Colorbond steel, high-quality fittings, vinyl flooring, and all Electrical and Plumbing to Australian standards, your VanHome is built to last.
High Resale Value
A mixture of easy relocation, a high standard of workmanship, and a happy customer base mean that VanHomes have excellent resale value. Did you know that many customers buy a VanHome while building their home and then resell it once the build is complete? Customers recoup up to 95% of their initial investment by reselling their VanHome later.
Warranty Program
We are passionate about quality and service. We offer a 5-year manufacturer warranty with a 10 year structural warranty on wall frames and chassis. All third-party warranties are passed on. This is well above the standard 3 to 12-month warranty provided with Imported Folding Container Homes. We have excellent after-sales service with a team based here in NSW, and we are available to help you with any issues that may arise.
Happy Clients
Being in the game for nearly 16 years, we have acquired many happy customers who attest to our product quality and attention to detail.
Point Of Contact
We offer after-sale services, unlike imported folding homes. We also have a specialist team you can contact anytime if things go wrong.
LEC Court Case
VanHomes stands by its customers. In 2018, VanHomes set a precedent in the Land and Environment Court of NSW (insert ruling) when a council challenged our customers' right to have a VanHome on their property. When you buy a VanHome, you also purchase years of knowledge and experience. Our team supports you if you need help with
your local Council. Learn more about Council Bypass.
When buying accommodation for yourself or a loved one, it's essential to research the pros and cons of each product on the market. We hope the information above helps you decide which product is right.
Our team of dedicated experts is here to help you with every step.
