How to Choose the Right Shipping Container for a Jobsite Office
Are you considering transforming a shipping container into an office for your job site? You’re not alone! Many construction teams find shipping container jobsite offices valuable for their crews as they provide a durable and versatile workspace that can enhance productivity, provide a comfortable environment, and can be easily moved from one site to the next.
If you are sourcing a single shipping container or several containers to use as an office on your jobsite, then you want to ensure that you get the right container for the job. Believe it or not, there's a right way to choose the right shipping container for your jobsite office to ensure it works for the needs of your workers and your construction crews' day-to-day operations. In this blog, we'll give you a step-by-step guide to choosing the right container for your jobsite office.
Step 1: Identify Your Space Needs
The first step to choosing the right shipping container for your jobsite office involves assessing how much space you need.
Ask yourself these questions to get started:
How many people will use the office?
Do you need a break room, meeting space, or storage?
Will you need one container or multiple containers for your job site's needs?
Step 2: Choose the Right Size
Based on the needs of your jobsite, you'll need to decide what size or sizes of containers are right for your crew. The most common shipping container sizes are 20-foot and 40-foot containers. 20-foot containers are easier to move, but offer less space. 40-foot containers are harder to move, but can equip multiple offices and even a breakroom or locker rooms. If you have a smaller crew on your jobsite, a 20-foot shipping container may suffice, or you may decide to use multiple 20-foot containers. If you have a larger crew and a job expected to take some time, a 40-foot container may be more suitable for your long-term project needs.
Related: Shipping Container vs. Trailer: Which Is Best for Your Jobsite?
Consider the Jobsite Conditions
Size isn’t the only thing to think about when considering a shipping container office for your jobsite. There are a few other important conditions to review before getting started. Here’s what else to keep in mind:
Climate
Climate is another important consideration. Cold weather calls for reliable heat, while warmer conditions often require air conditioning. Having proper heating and cooling in place helps maintain a comfortable, usable workspace.
Ground Conditions
Is the ground you will place your jobsite office containers smooth, level and firm? Do you need a foundation for your container? The condition of the ground is essential to the functionality and longevity of your container.
Security Needs
Jobsite shipping containers can be used for offices and tool cribs, and both of these need to be secured, as construction sites are a target for theft.
Find out more about keeping your jobsite and storage secure:
Keep Tools and Equipment Secure with a Container Tool Crib
Find the Right Lock for your Shipping Container
Step 3: Decide Between New vs. Used Containers
The next step to choosing the right container for your jobsite office is to determine if a used container or a new (one-trip) container is ideal. The benefit of a new/one-trip, shipping container is that they are in the best possible condition; however, they will also have a higher price tag. Used containers will be less expensive than a new container, although they come in a variety of conditions, so you will want to verify with the shipping container vendor you are working with that the condition is suitable for being converted into a jobsite office.
Because your container will need modifications such as doors, windows, and electrical, to be a functional jobsite office, it should be in good shape and not require many up-front repairs.
Pros and Cons of Buying Used Shipping Containers
Step 4: Determine Your Needed Modifications
The considerations in the prior step will lead you into the world of shipping container modifications. You'll need to determine what needs to be done to your shipping container to make it a functional and comfortable workspace for your jobsite.
Some of the modifications you'll likely want for your container office include:
- Doors and windows
- HVAC
- Electrical + outlets
- Insulation and interior finishing
- Lighting
- Built-in desks, counters, or storage
At Super Cubes, we offer both DIY modification kits as well as done-for-you modification services. Although your crew may be well-equipped to perform these installations, you may want a shipping container vendor that can have your containers' job-site offices ready to go.
Step 5: Plan for Power, Internet, and Utilities
One of the last steps in getting a shipping container ready for use as a jobsite office is making sure it has the power, internet, and basic utilities needed to support daily work. Without these in place, even a well-designed container can fall short on functionality.
This part of preparing your container involves determining how you’ll supply electricity to the container; this could be accomplished by connecting to another on-site power source, running temporary lines, or using a generator. You’ll also want to decide if it makes more sense to run cable for internet access or rely on a wireless option. Planning ahead for lighting, outlets, and climate control can help avoid delays once the container is in use.
Final Step: Work With a Trusted Shipping Container Vendor
When you partner with a trusted shipping container provider, like Super Cubes, you’re not just getting a shipping container; you’re tapping into an industry expert who makes the entire purchasing and modification process easier. We can help you determine which type and size of container will work best for your jobsite office and what modifications will make it an efficient working environment.
Our experienced modification team supports your jobsite office from concept through completion—helping turn your vision into reality without the guesswork. Plus, by choosing a company that manages both delivery and installation, you can rest assured that every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on what you do best. This not only saves you time but also ensures that your project runs smoothly from start to finish; let us take care of your jobsite office so you can take care of your clients.
Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.