Shipping Container Offices: A Complete Setup Guide

From construction site offices to backyard writing nooks, shipping containers are the perfect basis for a workspace.

20ft and 40ft containers are the ideal size for an office. They’re readily available, cost-effective, and can be placed on pretty much any stable, level surface. And when you convert them correctly, they can be every bit as comfortable, functional and aesthetically pleasing as a traditional office.

The precise details of your container conversion will depend on a number of factors: how you plan to use your office, whether it’s a commercial or residential build, whether it’s temporary or permanent, your local climate and more.

In this guide we’ll walk you through the basic process of a shipping container office conversion, so that you know what to expect before you begin.

Doors and windows

Standard shipping containers have heavy end doors that aren’t very practical when workers need to constantly enter and exit. Consider starting your conversion by adding a dedicated door that grants staff easier access. You’ll just need to reinforce the frame to ensure the addition doesn’t impact the structural integrity of the container.

You’ll also notice a lack of natural light inside your container, which isn’t ideal for the workers inside. Add a couple of windows to let some sun in, once again being careful to surround each with a properly reinforced frame.

Insulation and ventilation

Shipping containers are made from steel, which means they get hot in summer and cold in winter. Insulation and ventilation are absolutely critical, particularly in the variable and often extreme Australian climate.

You can check out our complete guide to shipping container insulation here, but we recommend professionally installed spray foam insulation, because it offers excellent thermal performance, is long-lasting and airtight, and prevents the build-up of condensation.

Ventilation also prevents the build-up of moisture, and keeps the interior cooler on hot summer days. You have the choice between passive/unpowered options like vents and whirlybirds, or active/powered options like extractor fans and HVAC systems. Our ventilation guide goes into all the pros and cons, but we recommend investing in total comfort and choosing HVAC.

Connecting utilities

Your new office will need a power supply, and most shipping containers get connected to the grid, which makes that supply reliable.

You can choose to go off-grid with a solar and battery system, but you need to ensure that you have enough power throughout the year, even on the greyest days in the middle of winter. A solar setup can also be a risk if you choose to install a power-hungry HVAC system.

Carefully consider where you want to place your powerpoints for workstations, your LED downlights, and whether you’ll need plugs for a WiFi router/extender, a microwave/kettle/coffee machine, and your chosen ventilation system.

You’ll need to engage a licensed electrician to set it all up, so they may be able to help you decide where to put everything. You may also want access to water, in which case you’ll need help from a plumber too.

Interior design and ergonomics

Once you’ve made your shipping container office comfortable and functional, it’s time to fit it out. A few pro tips for enhancing your interior design and maximising your ergonomics include:

• Brighten the space: Using light-coloured paints on the walls and ceiling (whites, soft greys, pastels), as this helps make the compact container feel a little more spacious.
• Consider high cube: High cube containers are 305mm taller than standard – extra headroom that can make the container feel more spacious.
• Choose functional flooring: Most containers come with either plywood or bamboo flooring as standard, but timber slats or laminate might be easier to keep clean.
• Make it multi-use: Add a small lounge or lunch zone alongside the work area, so workers can take a break.
• Let the traffic flow: Think about how people will walk from the door to their desk, and how foot traffic will flow around the space, to ensure thoroughfares aren’t blocked.

Professional vs DIY installation

Should you tackle your shipping container office conversion yourself, or hire a professional?

DIY cost savings are tempting, but a professional job is often worth the extra investment. Expert conversions typically perform better and last longer than DIY, and tend to come with some form of warranty.

Container conversions take a lot of time and require a lot of specific tools and skills – you’ll probably need help with the insulation, electrical, plumbing and HVAC anyway, so handing the whole job over to a pro can work out far easier, more efficiently and potentially cheaper.

Finally, the pros will ensure your conversion aligns with council requirements, building codes and insurance rules – important considerations for any build, but particularly for commercial offices.

Looking for help?

At shipping-containers.com.au we can connect you with a network of carefully vetted modification partners who can bring your container site office conversion to life.

Start your shipping container office journey today