Last Updated on January 25, 2024
With your own shipping container office, you can join the thousands of people benefiting from convenience, practicality and huge savings on office rental. These are just a few of the reasons why this style of portable office is more popular in 2024 than it has ever been before. If you are on the lookout for a shipping container office, you might be overwhelmed with the amount of options available. Don’t fret – these choices and customisations will make your life much easier, and we will tell you everything you need to know in order to help you make the right decision when it comes to your future office space.
Here’s what you need to consider.
Installing a shipping container office
These mobile offices are easy to install with the right equipment; however, it’s important to ensure that you have adequate space for a 20ft container, with room for an entry/exit point. Additionally, there must be a clear route to the final location in order for the forklift to be able to deliver the container and set it down safely.
Before your container is delivered, you might need to do some minimal groundwork preparation. If you have uneven ground, it may need to be flattened so that the container can sit comfortably and securely in place. You will also need to prepare connections for electricity, broadband and water (if necessary) so that your container can function properly as an office.
Once your shipping container is installed, it is ready to roll!
Shipping container office security
If you leave any sort of equipment or stock in your shipping container unattended, you will need a security system in place to prevent and deter thieves and vandals. Shipping containers are constructed from corten steel, which is a very strong metal that allows the container to withstand harsh conditions on container ships, while also securing the goods inside the container from thieves.
You can also purchase locks and lock boxes to add an extra layer of security to your container. We do not recommend purchasing a shipping container office without a locking facility or at least the option to install one – after all, you wouldn’t leave a regular office building unlocked while no one is manning it! At Billie Box, we include a steel reinforced entrance door with strong locks, as well as windows with lockable steel shutters, as standard.
Layouts for shipping container offices
Did you know that you can customise the layout of your shipping container office to include spaces for storage and even a kitchen? For example, if you are running a product business from your office and you need somewhere to store stock, you could choose to have a partition inserted to separate your workspace from your storage space. Alternatively, those looking to use their shipping container as a canteen can choose an option which includes a sink and kitchen worktop – this is ideal for use at schools, public attractions, factories and more.
Do you need planning permission for a shipping container office?
Shipping containers are usually exempt from planning permission if they are being used as a temporary structure. However, there are a few rules to follow. For example, if you install a container in your garden at home, it shouldn’t cover more than half the land around your property. Also, your local planning laws may be more strict if you are located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) or other protected area. Make sure to do your research before you make the commitment to purchase a shipping container office.
Where to buy a shipping container office
At Billie Box, we offer a variety of brand new mobile offices and canteens. These containers can be customised, but our standard features include a steel personnel door with 10 lever locking system; windows with exterior lockable steel shutters; rockwool insulation and melamine covering; electrics; polyfloor; and more.
Our shipping container offices are practical, comfortable, secure and visually appealing. For more information or to get a quote, call Jane, Clare or Matt on 0800 121 7388 today.
