Frequently Asked Questions


Technology

  • What's in the Box?

    The Farm from a Box system comes equipped with the core components needed to run a productive, off-grid farm- from water pumping and drip irrigation to solar panels and batteries. You can learn more about our system HERE!

  • Do the Boxes come in different colors?

    Yes—currently we  currently offer the units in heirloom (red), wheat (tan), and basil (green). We can do a custom branded color and logo for you for an additional fee.

  • Can the Box power auxiliary needs?

    Yes, the unit is currently designed with interior and exterior power plugs for auxiliary needs.  If your farm requires additional power (i.e. extra power to provide supplemnetal heat for high tunnels and greenhouses, or additional farm equipment)—we can configure the unit with an power upgrade for an additional fee. 

  • Do you use new or reclaimed shipping containers?

    We use one-trip containers. We considered using old shipping containers, but realized we wouldn’t be able to guarantee the quality and durability. Plus, the cost difference is very slight.  Because of this, we opted for one-trip containers to be able to do the required modifications and installation of equipment with full confidence that your unit will last and not pose any issues for you.


Farming

  • How much land can it support?

    We have two products that support different sized farms.  


    Our 4.4 Model is built from a 20-foot ISO shipping container and is designed to support farms that are around 2-6 acres in size. It's perfect for urban farms, community gardens, hospitals, schools, and vocational training programs.


    Our 4.10 Model is built from a 40-foot ISO shipping container and supports SME farms that are 6- 15 acres. If additional acreage is needed beyond that, it can be scaled up with addtional kits. This model is ideal for commercial production. Multiple units can be deployed within a region to support large-scale ag value chain production.

  • What crops can it grow?

    Our infrastructure is designed for outdoor crop production and can support a wide range of crops. Depending on what your climate supports, you could grow things like vegetables, fruits, root crops, grains, hops, flowers, cannabis, herbs, and spice plants. Most of the farms we support grow a diversified farm with multiple crops. 

  • Can you plant trees or an orchard?

    Absolutely, and we encourage you to. When we configure your unit, just let us know if you plan to incorporate an orchard and we will build your irrigation system to support it.

  • Does it come with seeds?

    No, there is no organic material included in the Box. Because our system can support any type of crop, the selection of seeds you’ll need depends entirely on what you want to grow.

  • Does it contain fertilizer or pesticides?

    No, the Box does not come with any fertilizers or pesticides. In fact, we strongly advocate for organically-based, regenerative farming practices. Incorporating soil management techniques and integrated pest management not only protects the environment and builds healthy soil, but also lowers your operating costs and boosts the income potential of your farm.

  • Where does the water come from?

    Water is a vital component of any farm, and our system is designed to conserve water and optimize its use. Therefore, it is crucial to have a water source somewhere near your location—like a municipal line, ground well, river, or lake.

  • How many people are needed to farm the land?

    Your farm labor depends on how much acreage is farmed, which crops you plant, how many harvest cycles you have, and whether you incorporate an optional walk-behind tractor. If you are using your Box for training or educational purposes, you may opt to have more people participate and learn. Farms that are currently using our system range anywhere from 5-80 people farming.


Deployment & Maintenance

  • Do you set it up or do I?

    Both, actually!  On the delivery day of your Farm from a Box system, the FFAB team will be present to ensure proper landing, set up, and commissioning of all technology. When the system is "greenlighted" and set up, it will be the user's responsibility to lay the irrigation lines in the field and prepare for planting. 

  • How long does the set up take?

    It depends on what unit is being the deployed and if addtional time is necessary to connect the water to a groundwell.  Generally, it takes between 1-4 days—as long as all the preparation has been done in advance. When we deliver your system, one of our team members will be there to get the internal setup fully commissioned and verified. After your Box is deployed, you just need to lay out the irrigation lines and start planting! Our support team is available to help you along the way so you can get growing.

  • How long will the system last?

    Every aspect of the Box has been designed with maximum durability and simplicity in mind. The container itself will last for 20+ years. Hardware such as the solar panels, water pump, and inverter have a general expected lifespan of 15 years, and the battery array averages 9 years. Other components, such as the irrigation system, will vary and may require replacement sooner.

  • Which parts need routine replacement?

    The irrigation system can experience more wear and tear or encounter potential mishaps and thus may need more frequent replacement. Although we use high-quality, durable irrigation lines, the drip emitter lines may need to be occasionally replaced. We include a standard spare part replacement kit with your system.

  • Can it be moved or is it permanent?

    Yes, it can be moved, but the Box is designed to stay in one location. Once on site and deployed, the outside components operating in the field (the pump, irrigation system, and any outside sensors) would need to be removed and put back into the unit for shipment to your new location. The solar panels and roof rack on top of the container would also need to be packed back into the unit before it is moved.

  • Are your units made in the USA?

    Yes and no. The units that we sell within the United States are absolutely made with pride in the USA. Each unit is built in the country it will be used in because we are big believers in sourcing products locally and creating local jobs. We regionalize the manufacturing and assembly of our Boxes through a network of Farm from a Box production hubs throughout the world. This supports local economies, contributes to local job creation, and meets the needs of a global market while limiting costly and wasteful shipping.


Financing & Supply

  • How much does it cost?

    The cost of your Farm from a Box system will vary according to the acreage you plan farm and how you choose to configure your unit. We worked hard to design a high-quality system that provides incredible value. 

  • Can I use financing to purchase?

    Yes—Farm from a Box Financial Solutions provides straightforward financing solutions that enable farmers to grow their business through the use of sustainable clean technologies. Qualified growers within the United States have access to our convenient financing option. Contact us for additional information.

  • What's the return on investment (ROI)?

    While there's no single answer to this, our farms generally see an ROI in about 20 months. The timeline depends on market demand, the crops you grow, and the distribution model you use.


    Our farms boost their yields by up to 50% and grow an average of 18,000 lbs of high value produce per acre. Plus, our integrated cold storage system will keep your harvests fresh and beautiful, increasing their market value and helping you earn a higher return for your crop.

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