A semiconductor device structure comprises at least one semiconductor fin for a vertical transport field effect transistor, a bottom source/drain layer, and an insulating layer underlying the bottom source/drain layer. A method of forming the structure comprises forming a sacrificial layer within a lower portion of a source/drain region for a vertical transport field effect transistor structure. The sacrificial layer being formed adjacent to at least one semiconductor fin and in contact with a substrate. A source/drain layer is formed within an upper portion of the source/drain region above the sacrificial layer. The sacrificial layer is removed thereby forming a cavity between the substrate and the source/drain layer. An insulating layer is formed within the cavity.