Offices come in various shapes and sizes, and can even be created from unexpected materials. An increasingly popular choice is to convert shipping containers into offices. All types of business from across multiple industries are embracing refurbished shipping containers as a new and exciting place to work.
Compared to office buildings, shipping containers offer many benefits, making them a viable alternative to traditional workplaces. Here are some key reasons why companies are giving shipping containers serious consideration:
1. Portability
Because shipping containers don’t need to be built from scratch at your office location, you can easily set them up. Many companies sell and rent out a shipping container office, and they’ll even deliver it straight to your location.
If you’re intending to set up a temporary office, a portable office is what you’ll need. If you buy a shipping container, for example, you can quickly transfer it to another location. Some even rent shipping containers as their office, especially for construction or engineering projects, so that they can stay near the sites. After a project, you don’t have to worry about disassembling or relocating a shipping container because the provider will do the job.
Shipping containers are also great option for home offices because you can easily place them in your garden. Having a separate space means that you won’t be distracted by your family. Psychologically, it can help you feel that you’re working in the office, which may help you become more productive.
2. Modifiable
What’s great about shipping containers is you can modify them according to your preferences. You can easily enhance the aesthetics to make its ambiance comfortable and office-like. Here’s how:
- Install An Infill System – An infill system refers to your office’s mechanical, electrical, and plumbing needs. You may need to place an internal framing to support the electrical and plumbing components. The process is similar to installing the infill system at home, but you must consider the space with a shipping container.
- Choose an HVAC System – To make your shipping container office comfortable throughout the year, it’s important to install a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. You can choose from rooftop turbine vents, air ducts, and window air conditioners. Taking this step ensures that air will circulate and keep your office’s temperature comfortable.
- Insulate The Container – Lastly, don’t forget that shipping containers can absorb moisture and become cold. By insulating it, you can obstruct vapor that can get into the container, as well as mitigating cooler temperatures. You can use spray foam insulation or insulation panels.
3. Durability
Cargo containers are durable because they’re made of high-quality steel. Their primary purpose is to ship large and heavy quantities via land or sea. That’s why they’re strong and made to withstand snow, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and other elements.
If you think that buying a shipping container for your home office is quite pricey, consider it as a long-term investment. Even in extreme weather conditions, your container office will provide a comfortable and sturdy workspace. Buying one outright will allow you to save on the costs of leasing an office building for years.
Conclusion
When you plan to build an office for your business or remote job, consider converting a shipping container. There are companies all over the world that will rent or sell a cargo container for personal or professional use. They’re durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. And with a few modifications, they’re just as comfortable and efficient as a traditional office.
