A shipping container is already a sturdy, watertight steel box in its own right. With the right adaptations, that same container becomes a fully functional office, a workshop with power and light, or a lockable garage for a car, motorbike or tools. In this article, HEROX runs through the possibilities: from insulation and electrics to windows, doors and bespoke work, so it becomes clear exactly what's possible when converting a shipping container into an office, workshop or garage.
A container as an office is mainly chosen because it can be placed quickly, remains relocatable and works out considerably cheaper than a permanent extension. For a usable office, a few adaptations are almost always needed:
A 20ft container (roughly 6 metres) is often sufficient for a simple office with a small kitchenette; for more workstations or a separate meeting room, a 40ft container (roughly 12 metres) makes more sense. Anyone who prefers extra headroom can opt for a High Cube version, which is 30 centimetres taller than standard, offering more load volume and a more spacious feel inside.
For a shipping container used as a workshop, functionality is the main concern: enough power for tools, good lighting, and a layout suited to the work at hand. Commonly requested adaptations include:
For a workshop, a used container is often an excellent choice. At HEROX, used means cargo-worthy or A-grade quality: guaranteed wind and watertight, CSC-certified and inspected at the depot before delivery. This makes used containers the best value for money, especially when the container mainly serves as storage and workspace and cosmetic wear matters less.
A container used as a garage needs to do two things well above all: lock securely and be easy to access. Consider:
For a garage, the choice between new and used mainly comes down to appearance and budget. New means one-trip: the container has made exactly one sea voyage and is in virtually as-new condition, including a smooth exterior. Used is functionally equivalent but shows more signs of wear. Anyone placing the container prominently at home or on business premises often opts for new and has it sprayed in the desired RAL colour for a sleek result.
| Application | Most common adaptations | Point to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Office | Insulation, electrics, windows, personnel door, ventilation | Comfort and daylight |
| Workshop | Electrics, lighting, ventilation, lock box | Sufficient power capacity |
| Garage | Double door or open side, lock box, insulation | Accessibility for vehicles |
All the adaptations mentioned are carried out by HEROX in its own modification workshop, prior to delivery. This means a container isn't delivered as an empty box for customers to convert themselves, but arrives already fitted out according to the customer's requirements. Options include:
Specific types such as double door, open side, flat rack or a refrigerated container are also available on request, for those with a less standard application in mind. More on the basic choice between new and used, and how HEROX safeguards quality, can be found in buying a shipping container safely without a middleman.
A converted container is delivered just like a standard model, using a crane truck or side-loader, typically within 3 to 7 working days of ordering. The container is positioned exactly where required, provided the ground is reasonably level and hardened and the site is accessible for a lorry. For an office or workshop being placed close to an existing building, it's wise to check this accessibility beforehand. Anyone wanting to know what's possible regarding delivery in their region can find more background in buying or hiring a shipping container by region.
Not everyone wants to commit straight away to a container with modifications. Hire is also available, from around €60 per month depending on type and term; a handy way to first find out whether a container as an office, workshop or garage meets expectations. Those who prefer to buy can choose from paying in advance with a 5 percent discount, paying after delivery, or spreading payments over up to 36 months via licensed European finance partners from around €60 per month. For a concrete plan with price, stock availability and delivery date, HEROX sends a quote by email within an hour on working days, based on the desired container type, the required modifications and the delivery location. View current stock in the shop or request a bespoke quote via contact.
Yes, both new and used containers are suitable for conversion. New (one-trip) is in virtually as-new condition, while used is cargo-worthy or A-grade quality and guaranteed wind and watertight. Which option suits best mainly depends on budget and whether appearance matters for the intended use.
Common adaptations include insulation of walls, roof and floor, electrics and lighting, windows, a personnel door and ventilation. These modifications are carried out by HEROX in its own workshop prior to delivery, so the container can be used as a ready-to-go office straight away.
Yes, containers are already sturdy by design, and a lock box can be fitted for extra security. A double door or open side version is also possible for easy access, combined with a securely lockable door.
Delivery is carried out using a crane truck or side-loader, typically within 3 to 7 working days of ordering. The container is positioned exactly where required, provided the ground is reasonably level and hardened and the site is accessible for a lorry.
Yes, hire is available from around €60 per month, depending on type and term. This is a good way to first find out whether a container as an office, workshop or garage meets your needs, before deciding whether to buy.
View live stock with prices, or get a tailored quote within one business hour.
