The scarcity of office spaces has forced businesses to look beyond conventional options and find creative solutions, and one such innovation that has caught on is utilizing used storage containers as office buildings.
These containers, which were earlier employed for transporting cargo across the world, have emerged as versatile and modern workplaces. Professionals ranging from startups to integrated have found that shipping container offices address their need for affordability, flexibility, and eco-friendliness.
In this article, we will uncover the reasons behind the increasing popularity of shipping container offices and highlight why they are worth considering for modern professionals.
What is a Shipping Container Office?
A shipping container office is a mobile office unit that is created by modifying a shipping container. Since these containers are designed to carry goods through challenging environments, using them as offices makes it easy to move them from one location to another. They are particularly useful for industries like construction and agriculture that require portable workspaces.
Thanks to their simple design, shipping containers can be readily adapted and personalized to suit your present and future office requirements. You can also incorporate features such as racks, blinds, and other accessories to give your container office a more conventional feel.
Advantages of Shipping Container Office
Cost-effective
Converting a shipping container into an office can cost up to 40% less than constructing a traditional brick-and-mortar building. This results in significant savings for businesses and can free up the budget for other purposes such as hiring talent or investing in new technology.
Portability
Shipping containers are inherently mobile, allowing businesses to relocate their office quickly and easily without compromising on the quality of office amenities. This makes it an ideal solution for businesses that require flexibility in their workspaces. Depending on the business needs, shipping container offices can be placed on-site or transported to remote locations.
Eco-friendliness
The world is worried about climate change. We need to try and make sure we are helping the environment by doing business in a way that is good for the planet. One way to reduce carbon footprint is by repurposing shipping containers, which reduces waste and helps prevent new construction. Additionally, shipping container offices can be designed to be energy efficient with features such as solar panels, low-flow fixtures, and LED lights.
Customizable
The design of a shipping container office can be tailored to the demands of a business. It can have a ground level office space, and containers can be modified with partition walls, windows, doors, and insulation to create an office that meets the specific needs of the business. Furthermore, multiple containers can be combined, stacked, and arranged to create larger workspaces and more complex configurations.
Durability
Shipping container offices are made with sturdy steel, which makes them resistant to harsh weather, vandalism, and theft. They can last for years, even decades, with minimal maintenance. This reduces repair and replacement costs, providing even more savings for businesses.
Quick installation
Shipping container offices are prefabricated, meaning they are produced and assembled offsite before being transported to the final location. This greatly reduces the lead time for constructing an office compared to traditional building methods. A container office can be ready for use in as little as four weeks. This makes it an ideal option for businesses that want to begin operations quickly and without delay
A How-to Guide on Building Shipping Container Office
To set up a functional shipping container office, here are some key steps to follow:
- Add shelving and cabinets: Installing shelving and cabinets in your shipping container office can create essential storage space for files, documents, and supplies. It also helps in keeping the workspace organized and clutter-free.
- Create separate workspaces: In a shipping container, it’s essential to have dedicated spaces for different work tasks. Use partitions to create separate spaces for desk work, meetings, and relaxation areas. Having dedicated spaces for specific activities will help in being productive and focused.
- Choose office furniture: Picking out the right furniture for your shipping container office is essential to creating a comfortable and efficient workspace. Choose furniture that meets your specific needs, whether it’s desks and chairs for workstations or conference tables for meetings.
- Personalize your space: Adding some personal touches to your office can make the workspace feel more like home. Create a portable coffee and snack station to satisfy mid-day cravings or decorate walls with pictures of family, friends, or something that brings you joy to create a comfortable and inviting work environment.
Shipping Container Office Designs and Concepts You'll Absolutely Love
Modified Wood-clad Garden Shipping Container Office
This innovative shipping container office concept demonstrates how chic and modern a shipping container can look when adorned with treated wooden cladding and incorporating a section of the side removed to accommodate striking folding glass doors.
Image credit: MobilBox
Flowers in the Garden Shipping Container Office by Eu Jin Lim
The purposeful design of this project blurs the line between conventional office environments and the great outdoors, hinting at a future where working on important projects can be achieved while harmoniously coexisting with nature, resulting in a more sustainable and eco-friendly work lifestyle.
Image credit: Yanko Design
Dark Industrial-style Garden Container Office
Transforming from a typical professional office to a unique and personalized one, this alluring jet-black shipping container presents a brilliant alternative to a typical summer house, exuding an industrial charm.
The exceptional design by UK-based ContainerConversionsDB is a standout, showcasing immense versatility as it transitions to a multi-functional space. Comprising a cozy sofa at one end, a spacious desk in the middle, and a raised table and chairs at the other end, it is not just an office but a mini oasis perfect for outdoor relaxation and doubling as a guest room.
Image credit: Real Homes
Agency 99c Shipping Container Meeting Room
In contrast to the technique of welding containers together to make a unified structure observed in Ashdod Port, In House, an architecture firm in Cape Town, has brought a fresh perspective by placing a single shipping container inside a high-rise office building to establish an exclusive and sophisticated meeting space.
What sets this project apart is the attention to detail and the little features, such as the TV set for presentations and the rooftop that adds another open-plan meeting or lunch spot. The firm has also maintained the sturdy appearance of the container, keeping the original shipping labelings intact.
Image credit: Design Curial
On-Site Storage Solutions acknowledges that every customer has distinct shipping container demands. To accommodate a vast array of purposes, we offer an extensive variety of shipping container sizes, grades, and conditions.
Our customer service prioritizes satisfaction, and we are always ready to assist you in choosing the high-quality suitable container that will meet your precise requirements. For any inquiries on how to buy storage containers to start your project please contact us at 888-405-8772, and we will be more than happy to assist you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Shipping container offices are workspaces created by repurposing shipping containers. These containers are transformed into functional office spaces that provide a unique and innovative environment for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Shipping container offices are becoming popular for several reasons. Firstly, they offer cost-effective alternatives to traditional office spaces, allowing businesses to save on construction and rental costs. Secondly, their modular nature allows for easy expansion and reconfiguration as business needs evolve. Lastly, the sustainable aspect of repurposing containers aligns with companies’ eco-friendly initiatives.
Shipping container offices can be suitable for various types of businesses, from startups and small businesses to larger corporations. They can accommodate different work environments, including open-plan layouts, private offices, collaborative spaces, and meeting rooms. The versatility of shipping container offices makes them adaptable to a wide range of business needs.
Yes, shipping container offices can provide a comfortable and productive work environment when properly designed and outfitted. Insulation, ventilation, soundproofing, and climate control systems can be incorporated to ensure temperature regulation and noise reduction. Additionally, natural light and creative interior design elements can contribute to a pleasant and inspiring atmosphere.
When setting up a shipping container office, several considerations should be taken into account. These include ensuring proper permits and compliance with local building codes, assessing site suitability, addressing utility connections (electricity, water, plumbing), and incorporating necessary amenities like restrooms and kitchenettes. Consulting with professionals experienced in container conversions is advised to ensure a smooth and successful setup.
