FAQ
How many volunteers are needed to convert shipping containers?
Cargo of Dreams seeks to facilitate hands-on opportunities for volunteers, involving as many people as possible in this life-changing experience, more so than a mere remolding of a container. Some projects have had as little as 10-15 dedicated individual and others as many as 600, including participants from a correctional service facility. Your organization, community groups, business and their staff as well as random individuals are typically all part of a project.
What skill sets are needed to convert shipping containers?
The facility becomes operational once completed in the recipient country, it is there fore not necessary that any of the remodeling work are done by certified tradesmen at the donor site. It however strongly encourage that there are at least one handyman/woman on the team that is familiar with general construction and interpretation of provided blue prints.
How much space should be allotted on our property in order to accommodate the containers?
The space required for a container is equivalent to five parking spaces for each 40-foot container. Each additional 20-foot container would require the equivalent of two to three more parking spaces. Ideally, one should place the containers in highly visible location to promote community interest and interaction. Attention drawn to the project will help to engage more individuals in the project.
Where do the containers go once they are shipped, and who determines the final destination?
There are two options. Cargo of Dreams has a list of potential recipients in foreign countries whose vision for a new facility is ready to be adopted. Potential project donors can evaluate any number of these potential recipients to determine a best fit for the donor’s overall goals. If a potential project donor is already involve with a specific potential that may benefit from the donation project we believe you should consider that as your first option. Cargo of Dreams look forward to partner with you in that exploring process and will provide you with specific documentation to help with your evaluation.
Who buys the containers and where are they purchased?
Shipping containers are readily available across the country from either transport or mobile storage companies. Cargo of Dreams will provide you with very specific guidelines in buying the container from a local supplier. If we do have an existing supplier in your area we will be glad to connect and help make the necessary arrangements. Should you not feel comfortable with the purchase, or not able to find a local provider we will gladly assist with the purchase.
Who handles the import and export logistics?
Cargo of Dreams handles all import/export logistics and will provide specific, step-by-step guidelines for supporting roles of both donor and recipient partners
What do we need to get the project started?
Click here to see an overview of and what you need to do in the initial start up phase as well as what you can expect from Cargo of Dreams in each of the phases.
How much does a container conversion project cost?
This is an important question and the answer is a little detailed. How so? Our container conversion projects are based on the “stone soup concept.” If you are unfamiliar with this old fable, it basically means that everyone contributes something small – time, talent, or treasures – to make something great to complete the project.
There are three important factors that determine the cost scope of the project (floor plan), donor and recipient location (ocean- and land- transportation) and participation goals (volunteers vs paid contractors) In order to get a general feel for the costs of a project and more importantly how Cargo of Dreams will help you accomplish the goals, click here.
How long does it take to complete a project?
Although shipping containers can be transformed in a short period of time, the goal is to bring people together, engaging entire families and groups of individuals in several hands-on projects. Pacing the process will ultimately help build community and generateexcitement while converting the container. Ideally, the conversion time frame should take: 4-6 weeks planning, 3-4 months in construction at donor site, 3-6 weeks for shipment (depending on destination veriables) and 3-6 month build out at final destination.
Should we create a new website dedicated to the container conversion project?
Cargo of Dreams hosts a separate and interactive webpage on our website for each individual project. (click here to see current projects) This site facilitate direct connection between the donor and recipient and are an ongoing interactive page. It is strongly encouraged that you customize your project site to include links and information about your organization.
Can we use the Cargo of Dreams logo and other materials or information on this site to promote events or our project?
All works on this site, including written materials, artwork, graphics, photographs, sound recordings, and video (collectively the “Copyrighted Materials”), are copyrighted by Cargo of Dreams. All rights are reserved. Users are permitted and encouraged to download, reproduce, and distribute the Copyrighted Materials to inform others about their Cargo of Dreams project and the work of Cargo of Dreams in general. Provided however that the Copyrighted Materials are not altered in any way, are reproduced in their entirety and no fee beyond the actual cost of reproduction is charged.
You are not allowed to use any Copyrighted materials to promote a project that Cargo of Dreams is not a partner too or have written knowledge of.
