In the wake of the pandemic, more people are working from home. With that comes the need for office space. One excellent solution you’ve never considered is a shipping container office. The affordability, infinite customization, durability, operational efficiency, and eco-friendliness make a shipping container a versatile option. This new cargotecture is an excellent option for expanding your space while helping the environment.
In this article, we’ll go over all you need to know about shipping container offices: what they are, how to find them, and why they make sense for your space.
What Is a Shipping Container Office?
A shipping container workplace is a mobile office constructed out of single or multiple pre-assembled shipping containers. Depending on your demands and preferences, a shipping container office may be permanent or temporary. They are also an eco-friendly and cost-effective answer to infrastructure issues since they can go anywhere and are long-lasting mobile office buildings that you can count on for years.
Prefab Vs. DIY
There are two main ways to find a container office. The first is to buy a prefabricated, brand new shipping container, one that’s already been built as an office. The second is to DIY and convert an existing shipping container into a mobile office container.
Prefabricated shipping container offices come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. They can be easily customized with different flooring, walls, windows, and doors. If you’re looking for something more permanent or want the convenience of a portable office that’s ready-made, then a prefabricated container office might be the best choice for you.
If you’re feeling more DIY-inclined or want a temporary workspace, converting an existing shipping container into an office is a great option. With a little bit of elbow grease, you can create a custom workspace that fits your specific needs. Be sure to measure the container before you start so you know what kind of space you’re working with.
20-foot and 40-foot shipping containers are the most popular options. If you’re looking for something that’s smaller and more mobile, then a 20-foot container might be your best choice since it is easily moveable with an average truck and trailer. On the other hand, 40-foot shipping containers are larger, at just over 300 square feet, and have enough room to complete most remodeling projects inside. They also work well as permanent offices if you need extra storage space or other amenities.
How to Get Started
Once you’ve purchased your mobile office container, the next step is to figure out how you’ll convert it into a working space. There are two main routes you can go with this. The first is to hire a contractor to make the changes for you. They’ll handle any needed demolition of existing walls, ceilings, and floors, as well as installation of drywall, insulation, windows, doors, plumbing, heating/cooling systems, and so on.
The second option is DIY-ing it on your own. This might be the best choice if you’re handier or have experience with construction site projects. Be aware that shippers will not guarantee that containers are leakproof after modifications are made so keep that in mind before making any major renovations inside! You also need to know all the local building codes since requirements for shipping container offices vary from place to place.
If you’re embarking on this project, here are 7 simple steps to follow:
- Take measurements. Measure the floor plan of your container and make a list of what you need to add or replace. You’ll want to plan for every square foot.
- Budget accordingly. Create a budget for yourself and keep in mind any additional expenses such as permits, shipping costs, construction materials, etc.
- Start with the ceiling. The ceiling is often the most complicated part of the project since you’ll need to install new support beams and electrical wiring.
- After that, focus on walls. Focus on adding insulation and drywall to create a more comfortable and efficient workspace.
- Next is flooring. This is one of the most key areas for a working office. Installing new flooring in a shipping container office is an affordable way to have a clean space where you can work comfortably.
- Install plumbing and electrical. Once the basic structure of your storage container office is complete you can install plumbing and electrical.
- Install windows, doors, and any other necessary fixtures. Make sure to use a weather-resistant sealant around all seams to keep your new office space watertight.
Finally, add furniture and decor to make it feel like home!
Why You Should Choose a Shipping Container Office
More people are turning to sustainable solutions as the trend for container offices grows.
Using a storage container for your office space has numerous benefits. This is an excellent option for those who work from home or have work projects that require a sizeable space. Moreover, you’ll be helping the environment by recycling materials.
Choosing to go with a mobile container office is one of the best ways to embrace sustainability. Containers can last for up to 20 years with proper maintenance and much longer if properly converted into a permanent building.
Additionally, shipping container offices are ideal for people who need more space but don’t have the budget to purchase a larger home.
Here are some of the advantages:
A Spacious Office
A shipping container might sound a bit small to provide ample space, but there are plenty of container sizes and options that can provide you with adequate office space. For instance, a medium-sized shipping container is enough to provide office space for up to two people, while a larger container would be perfect if you have more staff that need plenty of office storage space.
Expandable
If you’re a business owner, you can easily grow your office space with your business without breaking the bank. A shipping container office can expand or extend because adding an extension to the previous building is easier.
Mobile/Transportable
One of the most significant advantages is that you may transport it. If you need to relocate your business, a small container can easily come with you.
Customizable
A shipping container office can be fully customized without great expense compared to a permanent office building. For instance, you can add doors and windows whenever you need more natural light in your office space. You can also create more walls and rooms depending on your work and needs.
Environmentally Friendly
Shipping container offices are made from containers that are no longer able to be used by shipping companies. Recycling old containers to create office spaces is an excellent way of giving old shipping containers a new purpose.
Affordable
Compared to the cost of building a permanent office, or moving to a larger home, a shipping container office is very affordable. The best part is you can choose to do some of the construction work yourself, which will bring down the overall cost.
If any of these benefits sound like something that could work for you, then you’re ready to take the next step. Who knows, you could even be ready for a shipping container home after this!
Do You Need a Shipping Container in Oklahoma?
If you’re planning to get a shipping container office in Oklahoma, we can help. Contact us today and choose from our handpicked 40-and 20-foot shipping containers. We’re here to help!