By Justin D. • August 30th, 2025
Look, when I first starting researching container pools I thought it was just another Instagram trend. Who would ever want a pool made out of a shipping container, right?
Well... I was wrong.
Container pools actually are a great solution to getting an inground (or above-ground) pool in your backyard at a fraction of the cost of traditional gunite, vinyl, or even fiberglass pools.
I was quoted over $100,000 for a basic pool from a local pool builder. It would take several months of digging, planning, and getting it ready. But I wanted something better. Which is when I ran into shipping container pools online.
Three months and probably 200 hours of research later, I'm writing this from my deck, looking at my own Ecopool container pool. Here's everything I wish someone had told me from the start.
What Is a Container Pool?
Okay, so imagine taking one of those shipping containers you see on cargo ships and turning it into a swimming pool. Sounds simple, right? It's actually way more complex — and way cooler — than I initially thought.
These aren't just containers with water dumped in them. The good manufacturers basically gut the container, reinforce it with hundreds of welds (we're talking 300+ welds on quality models), and then install sophisticated membranes. The steel in these containers is insane—they're designed to be stacked nine high on ships in the middle of the ocean. That translates to a pool that's about 5 times stronger than your typical pool.
What really blew my mind was learning about the transformation process. They cut out sections for windows (yeah, underwater windows!), install proper pool equipment that can handle 5,000 to 15,000 gallons, and add features I didn't even know existed. The container that arrives at your house is ready to swim - just add water.
Why Choose a Container Pool Over a Traditional Pool?
Let me hit you with the numbers that made my decision easy. Traditional pools in my area (Texas, for reference) were coming in at $90,000 to $150,000, and contractors were saying 3-6 months for completion. One guy actually laughed when I asked if it could be done by summer — and this was in February.
Container pools? We're talking $35,000 to $65,000 all-in, and you can be swimming within 1-3 days of delivery. I'm not exaggerating — my pool was delivered on a Tuesday morning, and we had our first swim Wednesday evening.
But here's what really sold me beyond the cost: you can take these things with you if you move. My buddy in California spent $180,000 on a gorgeous infinity pool, and now he's relocating for work. That investment? Staying with the house. Container pools can be drained, loaded up, and moved to your new place for just a few hundred dollars.
Buying Considerations
What to Look for in a Container Pool
After looking at probably a dozen different manufacturers, I learned the hard way that not all container pools are created equal. The biggest difference? The interior surface. This is where I need to get a bit nerdy because it matters — a lot.
You've got three main options for interiors, and trust me, this choice will affect your daily life with the pool.
Option 1: Painted Steel Interior (Avoid)
First, there's the basic painted steel interior—basically industrial coatings sprayed directly onto the metal. Modpools uses this approach, and while it's cheaper, I heard horror stories from owners about rust appearing within 18 months. One guy on a pool forum posted photos of rust bubbles all along his pool's floor after just two years. The paint can also get rough over time, and kids were getting scraped up.
Option 2: Fiberglass Shells (Better, but I'd Avoid)
Then there's fiberglass shells that get dropped into the container. These are smooth and durable, lasting 25+ years, but here's the catch—if they crack (and they can from ground movement or temperature changes), you're looking at $2,000-$3,000 repairs that are super obvious. Plus, they add about $8,000-$15,000 to your cost.
Option 3: Architectural Membrane (This is what you want!)
The third option—and what I ultimately went with—is an architectural membrane system. Ecopool uses something called Zycore™, which is this German-engineered membrane that's incredibly smooth but flexible. It's like a super high-tech liner that's welded at the seams, not glued. The thing that sold me? If it gets damaged, you can patch it for like $100 instead of dealing with major fiberglass repairs. Plus, it feels amazing on your feet—totally smooth, no rough spots.
You can choose between interiors that replicate stuff like tile, solid colors, stone. I went with a 3D tile and never looked back. I was super impressed with Ecopool's Zycore. They sent me a few samples before ordering my pool, and you'd be shocked at how good the interior looks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Container Pool
Oh man, I almost made so many expensive mistakes. The biggest one? Looking only at the base pool price. When a company quotes you $30,000 for a pool, that's literally just the pool. Here's what they don't mention upfront:
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Delivery and crane installation: $2,000-$4,000 (and some companies charge $8,000+ if you're far from their factory)
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Electrical hookup: $1,000-$3,000 (and you NEED a dedicated 50-amp circuit minimum)
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Site prep: $2,000-$10,000 depending on your yard
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Permits: $500-$2,000
Above-Ground Shipping Container Pool // The Pool Nerd
Suddenly that $30,000 pool is a $50,000 project.
But the good news? It is still way cheaper than a traditional inground pool. If you are opening to DIY'ing your own pool, you can save a lot of money by finding a local subcontractor to do the site prep for you - which is what I did. I'd guess I saved a few thousand by finding a subcontractor to get the pool ready.
Another huge mistake? Not checking actual customer reviews—not the testimonials on their website, but real people on forums and social media. I found a whole website, mymodpoolsstory.com, dedicated to one couple's nightmare experience with Modpools. They documented rust issues, terrible customer service, and ended up spending another $50,000 trying to fix problems.
So the brand you go with is super critical. I went with Ecopool and loved them. There are a few other good brands, but Ecopool stood out with the Zycore interior, great customer service, and affordable prices.
How Much Do Container Pools Cost?
Let me break down the real numbers from my research and quotes:
For an 8×20 foot pool (about 5,300 gallons—perfect for a small family):
- Base pool: $25,000-$40,000
- Total installed: $35,000-$55,000
For an 8×40 foot pool (10,600 gallons—this is what I got):
- Base pool: $35,000-$55,000
- Total installed: $50,000-$75,000
For wider 12-foot models or custom configurations:
- Base pool: $45,000-$70,000
- Total installed: $65,000-$95,000
The modular systems where you connect multiple containers? Sky's the limit. I saw one installation with three connected containers that created this amazing L-shaped pool with different depth zones—the owner said it was about $100,000 all-in, but it was absolutely stunning.
Types & Designs
Different Styles of Container Pools
The variety available now is crazy compared to even three years ago. The basic rectangular pool is still the most common, but I saw some wild stuff during my research.
There are pools with full acrylic windows built into the sides—imagine swimming and people can watch from your basement or patio. These windows add about $3,000-$8,000, but the effect is incredible. One installer in Miami showed me photos of a pool with three windows that lined up with the client's basement bar. Guests could watch swimmers while having drinks—it was like having an aquarium for humans.
The spa-pool combos really caught my attention. These have a section that can be heated separately to hot tub temperatures. So you get a regular pool plus a hot tub in one container. The divider can be removed when you want one big pool. These run about $5,000-$12,000 more than standard pools, but you're essentially getting two things in one.
Creative Container Pool Ideas for Backyards
The craziest installation I saw was in Brooklyn—a rooftop container pool on a brownstone. The structural engineering alone cost $15,000, but this family now has a private rooftop pool in NYC. Their property value probably jumped by twice what they spent.
I met a guy in Austin who built his entire outdoor entertainment area around his container pool. He used the industrial aesthetic as the design theme—exposed steel beams for the pergola, concrete countertops for the outdoor kitchen, and Edison bulb string lights. The pool didn't look out of place; it looked like the centerpiece everything else was designed around.
Another cool trend? People are painting these things in bold colors. Forget standard blue—I saw hot pink, matte black, even one with a graffiti mural. Since it's just a painted steel exterior, you can really make a statement.
Inground vs. Above-Ground Container Pools
Most people (about 65% according to installers) go with above-ground installation. It's the fastest and cheapest option—literally just need a level spot and you're good to go. My pool is above-ground, and honestly, we love the look.
Semi-inground is getting more popular, especially in neighborhoods with HOAs. You dig down 2-4 feet, so the pool doesn't tower over your yard. This adds about $5,000-$10,000 for excavation and retaining walls, but it looks more integrated into the landscape.
Fully inground is possible but kind of defeats some of the purpose of a container pool. You're adding $10,000-$20,000 in excavation costs, plus you need serious drainage to prevent water pressure from pushing against the container. At that point, some people question why not just get a traditional pool.
Materials: Steel, Fiberglass Liners, and Membrane Options
Let me get real about pool interiors because this is where I spent the most time researching. The interior surface is what you'll interact with every single time you swim.
Painted/Sprayed Coatings: This is what companies like Modpools use. They spray multiple coats of marine-grade paint directly onto the steel. It's the cheapest option, but here's the thing—steel and water eventually find each other. I talked to three Modpools owners who had rust within two years. One guy, Tom from Colorado, sent me photos that were shocking—rust bubbles everywhere, paint peeling, and Modpools basically told him it was "normal wear" and not covered under warranty.
Fiberglass Shells: These are prefab shells that get lowered into the container. Super smooth, very durable, but rigid. The problem? If your ground shifts (and it will), fiberglass can crack. Repairs are possible but expensive and ugly—you'll always see where the repair was made. Plus, fiberglass adds serious cost and weight.
Membrane Liners: This is the sweet spot in my opinion. Ecopool's Zycore™ membrane (which is what I have) feels like a high-end vinyl but it's way more advanced. It's heat-welded at the seams, not glued, so no weak points. If something does puncture it, repairs are easy and invisible. The surface is perfectly smooth—my kids can slide along the bottom without any scrapes or rough spots.
Popular Sizes and Configurations of Container Pools
The 8×20 foot pool is your entry-level size. It holds about 5,300 gallons, which sounds small, but it's actually perfect for cooling off, pool parties with 4-6 people, or exercise. These typically run $25,000-$40,000 installed.
The 8×40 foot pool (which is what I have) holds 10,600 gallons. This gives you real swimming space—I can do actual laps. You can have 10-12 people in here comfortably. Price range is $35,000-$55,000 for the pool, figure $50,000-$75,000 installed.
Now here's where it gets interesting—modular configurations. Ecopool has this patented system where you can connect multiple containers. Want a 70-foot lap pool? They can do it. Want an L-shape with a shallow end for kids and a deep end for diving? Done. The only limit is your budget and yard space.
Benefits of a Container Pool
Health, Lifestyle, and Entertainment Benefits of Container Pools
I'm not going to pretend container pools have magical health benefits that traditional pools don't, but there are some unique advantages. The compact size makes them perfect for resistance swimming. I installed a swim jet system ($4,000) and now I can swim continuously without doing flip turns every 10 strokes.
The temperature control is actually better than traditional pools because of the insulation. My heating costs are about 40% less than my neighbor with a similar-sized traditional pool. I keep mine at 85°F from April through October for about $150/month.
Entertainment-wise, these pools are conversation starters. Every party we've had, people want to know about the pool. The industrial look photographs incredibly well—my teenage daughter's Instagram posts of our pool get tons of engagement. It's become the neighborhood hangout spot.
Best for Small Backyards and Urban Spaces
This is where container pools absolutely destroy traditional options. You need just 10×25 feet of space for an 8×20 pool including room to walk around it. Try fitting a traditional pool in that space—you can't.
The narrow width (8 feet) means they fit in side yards where traditional pools are impossible. I know someone in San Francisco who put one in a 12-foot-wide side yard that had been useless space for decades.
The noise factor surprised me too. The insulation that keeps heat in also keeps sound in. Our pump is quieter than our neighbor's traditional pool pump, even though they're similar horsepower.
Heating, Cooling, and Seasonal Flexibility
Let's talk operating costs because this matters for your monthly budget. My heat pump system (which cost $4,500) has a COP (coefficient of performance) of 4.2, meaning it's 420% efficient. In real terms? It costs me about $150/month to keep the pool at 85°F during swimming season.
If you're in a sunny area, solar heating is incredible on container pools. The smaller water volume means a $3,000-$5,000 solar setup can handle most of your heating needs. My friend in Arizona runs his pool entirely on solar from March through October.
For cooling (yes, pools need cooling in hot climates), the same heat pump can reverse and chill the water. Keeping a pool below 80°F in Texas summer costs about $100/month—totally worth it when it's 105°F outside.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Container Pools
Here's the truth about maintenance—it's easier than a traditional pool but not maintenance-free. I spend about 30 minutes a week on maintenance, mostly testing water and adjusting chemicals.
The smooth walls make a huge difference. With Ecopool's membrane interior, I just run a brush around once a week and I'm done. No algae sticking to rough spots, no calcium buildup in crevices. My neighbor with a plaster pool spends twice as long scrubbing.
Chemical costs run me about $40/month in season, $20/month in winter. I use about 15-20% fewer chemicals than similar-sized traditional pools because the circulation is better—the equipment is sized for the exact volume, not overbuilt like many traditional pools.
Pro tip: Get a smart monitoring system ($400-$1,000) like the ICO pool water monitor. Mine tests the water every hour and messages me if anything's off. It's prevented several potential problems before they became actual problems.
Best Shipping Container Pools
Top Container Pool Brands in 2025
Let me give you the real scoop on the major players, based on actual customer feedback and my conversations with owners:
Best Overall: Ecopool
Ecopool is who I ultimately went with. They're the innovators with the modular system that can create any size pool. The Zycore™ membrane interior is legitimately superior to painted surfaces. Their customer service is actually responsive (I called with questions three times before buying, always got helpful answers). Pricing starts around $30,000, but the quality shows. Based in Texas, so shipping to most of the US is reasonable.
View Ecopool Container Pools →
After all my research, I went with Ecopool, and six months later, I have zero regrets. I got the exact size I wanted, an 8x20 container pool, the Zycore™ membrane feels amazing and has stayed perfect, and their customer service has been stellar.
Ecopool Sizes
If you want larger, they have all sorts of sizes and shapes. From plunge pools to lap pools, they have a patented modular design that allows them to build your pool as large as you want. You can even do larger custom sizes. The world is your oyster.
If you want to look as some other options, their new Steel S-Series pools are super cool. With the Architectural Onground Pools or their Inground S-Series pools, there are tons of options. It's around the same pricing (or sometimes cheaper depending on the size). It wasn't avaliable when I got my container pool, but it is made out of steel and can be fully customized - just like their container pools.
Where to Buy a Container Pool (Direct, Dealers, Online)
Online ordering is the easiest way to buy a container pool. For example, Ecopool has an online configurator on their site where you can build the exact pool and spec you want. From there, you can order your pool and have it shipped to you. It's that easy.
Installation & Setup
What to Expect During Container Pool Delivery & Setup
Delivery day was way less dramatic than I expected. The truck showed up at 8 AM, the crane arrived at 9, and by noon the pool was in place. Here's what you need to know:
Once it touched down, the crew spent another two hours leveling it perfectly and connecting the equipment. The electrician came that afternoon, plumber the next morning. By day two, we were filling it with water.
Most homes probably won't need a crane. I didn't but if you do. If you need a crane, the crane needs clear access—12 feet wide minimum, 14 feet overhead clearance. Our installer marked exactly where the pool would go with spray paint the day before. The crane setup took about 2 hours (lots of stabilizing legs and safety checks), then the actual pool placement took maybe 20 minutes.
Comparisons & Alternatives
Container Pools vs. Modular Steel Pools: What's the Difference?
Modular steel pools (like Optimum or Radiant) use engineered panels instead of containers. They're more flexible for odd sizes but lack the story and aesthetic of container pools. Price-wise, they're similar ($30,000-$60,000 installed).
Container pools win on insulation and uniqueness. Modular pools win on customization and traditional appearance. If you want a conversation piece, go container. If you want to blend in, go modular.
Container Pools vs. Swim Spas: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?
I seriously considered a swim spa before going with a container pool. Swim spas run $20,000-$40,000 and seem like a good compromise, but here's the reality:
Swim spas are exercise equipment that you can sort of relax in. Container pools are pools that you can exercise in. The swim spa would have given me 14 feet of swimming space; my container pool gives me 40 feet. For parties, there's no comparison—10 people in a container pool are comfortable, 10 people in a swim spa are sardines.
Are Container Pools Worth It Compared to Full-Size Pools?
If you want a 20×40 traditional pool with a diving board and slide, container pools can't compete. But for 90% of pool use—cooling off, entertaining, exercise, relaxation—container pools deliver the same experience for half the cost and 5% of the installation time.
My container pool is 8×20 feet. My neighbor's traditional pool is 15×30 feet. We both swim laps, host parties, and cool off in summer. He paid around $110,000 and dealt with construction for four months. I paid less than $50,000 all-in and was swimming in two days. You tell me who got the better deal.
Head-to-Head: Container Pools vs. Traditional Pool Types
Container Pools vs. Gunite (Concrete) Pools
Gunite pools are the gold standard for customization. Want a guitar-shaped pool? Gunite can do it. But you're paying $90,000-$200,000 and waiting 3-6 months. They last 50+ years with replastering every 10-15 years ($10,000+).
Container pools can't match gunite's customization but destroy them on value. For the price of replastering a gunite pool, you could buy a small container pool. Installation in days versus months is game-changing for most people.
Container Pools vs. Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are container pools' closest competition. Similar price range ($45,000-$85,000 installed), quick installation (1-2 weeks), low maintenance. The difference? Size limitations and installation requirements.
Fiberglass pools need wide access for delivery and careful excavation. Container pools can be craned over houses if needed. Fiberglass offers more traditional shapes; containers offer unique aesthetics and better insulation.
Container Pools vs. Vinyl Liner Pools
Vinyl liner pools are the budget traditional option ($25,000-$65,000) but the liner needs replacement every 5-15 years ($4,000-$7,500). Over 20 years, you might replace it twice—that's an extra $8,000-$15,000.
Container pools cost more upfront but have no major recurring expenses. The interior surface (if you choose wisely) lasts 20+ years. Do the 20-year math and container pools often win.
Other Container Pool Brands
Modpools: They claim to be "#1 in North America" but dig deeper and you'll find problems. Multiple customers have documented alleged rust issues, with some appearing within 18 months. Their painted interior is the Achilles heel. They allegedly require NDAs for warranty claims (huge red flag). Pricing is competitive ($35,000-$50,000) but factor in potential repair costs. One owner claims online he spent another $50,000 fixing issues after warranty.
Steelwater Pools: The budget option, starting at $16,900. You get what you pay for—corrugated walls that are harder to clean, basic equipment, limited customization. If you just want a container pool and don't care about aesthetics or longevity, they're an option. But honestly, spending a bit more gets you so much better quality.
Trek Pools: Solid middle-ground option. Good quality, decent customer service, 3-year warranty. They use a proprietary coating system that seems to hold up better than basic paint. Pricing runs $35,000-$45,000. Several happy customers, though not as innovative as Ecopool.
Tangle Pools: Australian company that's entered the US market. Really interesting designs with built-in heating and filtration. Their "plug and play" system is the simplest I've seen. Pricing is premium ($45,000+) but the quality is evident.
Container Pools USA: These guys do full custom work. If you want something totally unique, they'll build it. I saw a two-story pool they did with a slide from the upper level. Pricing starts at $50,000 and goes way up from there.
Which Pool Type Is Right for Different Budgets & Backyards?
Under $30,000 budget: Look at Steelwater container pools or above-ground traditional pools. Not ideal, but gets you swimming.
$30,000-$60,000 budget: Container pools dominate this range. Best value proposition by far.
$60,000-$100,000 budget: You can get a premium container pool or entry-level gunite. I'd go container for faster installation and lower maintenance.
Over $100,000 budget: Gunite becomes viable if you want massive size or complex shapes. But premium modular container systems can create amazing pools in this range too.
Small yards (under 500 sq ft): Container pools only. Nothing else fits.
Medium yards (500-1500 sq ft): Container pools or fiberglass, depending on access and aesthetics.
Large yards (1500+ sq ft): Any option works; choose based on budget and style preference.
Final Verdict
Is a Container Pool Right for You?
After living with my container pool for six months, here's who should seriously consider one:
You should get a container pool if you want to be swimming this summer (not next summer), have a budget under $75,000, value low maintenance over maximum customization, have a small or oddly-shaped yard, might move in the next 10 years, or appreciate unique design aesthetics.
You should look elsewhere if you want a truly massive pool (over 15,000 gallons), need complex shapes or beach entries, have unlimited budget and patience, or your HOA has strict traditional appearance requirements.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Container Pool
The container pool industry is exploding, but quality varies wildly. Do your homework—real customer reviews, not marketing claims. Focus on interior surface quality over base price. Budget for total installation, not just the pool.
If I had to do it again, I'd make the same choice. My Ecopool has been everything promised—quick installation, low maintenance, conversation starter, and most importantly, the center of countless family memories already.
The pool industry wants you to think you need to spend $100,000+ for a "real" pool. That's BS. My container pool is real, it's awesome, and it cost half what my neighbor paid while delivering 90% of the experience. Sometimes innovation really does beat tradition.
The water's 85°F, the sun's shining, and I'm going for a swim. In the pool that took two days to install and hasn't given me a single problem. That's the container pool reality, and it's pretty sweet.
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