This is a call out to all mechanics, carpenters, ceramists, tailors, sculptors, and anyone who could really use a dedicated space for their craft. Did you know that a shipping container may be precisely what you need? Compared to building or renting a workshop space, a shipping container garage workshop is faster, cheaper, and fully customisable.
A shipping container produces a great workshop, and here’s why.
10 Reasons to Convert a Shipping Container into a Workshop
If you need more convincing, read on to discover why a converted shipping container workshop is a great solution.
1. Privacy
You will be able to relate to this idea if you’ve ever shared your workshop space with others or had to welcome visitors while you work. A private workshop means you are less likely to get distracted, misplace your tools, or cause accidental injuries.
2. Security
Shipping containers are also secure by default: they are durable and difficult to break into because of their steel bodies. Add a high-quality padlock or a lockbox, and your valuable tools are safe from theft and vandalism.
3. Ideal Storage Option
Tools and equipment are significant investments for your craft. If you store them in a normal shed or garage, you risk break-ins and fire, water and pest damage to your gear. A shipping container is made from high-grade steel.
Anyone who wants access to your equipment would need power tools and lots of time to cut through the container wall or lockbox. This means that you can rest assured that your tools are as safe from theft as possible in your workshop.
4. Extra Workspace
It isn’t easy to create a suitable workspace for DIY projects. Attics quickly become too small, basements too cramped and spare rooms often have to make way for guests. Add on the workshop noise, and you’ll discover that a separate workspace is the perfect solution.
If you set up your shipping container garage workshop in your backyard, add a soundproofing layer to keep the noise away from the main house.
5. Durability
Shipping containers are sturdy, weather-resistant, and extremely durable compared to a regular garden shed. They undoubtedly survive long cargo journeys in all kinds of weather conditions and terrain. Even a used shipping container can last you for decades.
6. Fully Customisable
Your blank canvas comprises four walls, a roof, and a floor in a shipping container. What you can make out of it is up to your imagination. You can even stack up several shipping containers to have a multi-storey workshop. To build a shipping container garage workshop, you can add as many features as you wish, including:
- Sliding doors
- Flooring
- Windows
- Skylights
- HVAC
- Electricity and plumbing
- Shelves, tables and racks
- Stairs and ramps
- Sinks and toilet
- Interior partitions
- Alarm system…and much more.
7. Flexibility
Like the point above, you can use a shipping container for various applications. Woodworking, pottery, appliance repairs, and metalwork: whatever your hobby, you can do it in a shipping container workshop.
8. Budget-friendly
A shipping container garage workshop is budget friendly. There’s:
- No major digging of foundations
- No giant team of contractors on site
- No disruptions to your everyday life
Even better, Gateway Containers can get your workshop fabricated to your specifications and deliver it to your location.
Save extra cash by choosing a used shipping container too. Compared to the cost of building a shed or garage on your property, a shipping container garage workshop can make much more financial sense.
9. Portability
A shipping container garage workshop is not a permanent structure, which is useful when relocating. You may need to move house for many reasons, from finding seasonal or contract work to welcoming new kids or caring for older or sick relatives.
Whatever your situation, you can take your workshop with you. It’s much easier than taking down your shed or garage workshop before moving. It also means that your new property will only need a large enough backyard to install your shipping container garage workshop.
10. Eco-friendly
If you’re big on recycling, a shipping container garage workshop will make sense to you. You’re basically reusing old shipping containers instead of choosing a brand new container or using timber, steel, concrete and other materials to build a new shed.
This is a great way to give a new lease of life to a used shipping container. It also reduces wastage and ultimately contributes to a sustainable environment.
What to Consider for Your Shipping Container Workshop
A shipping container garage workshop begins with a plan on paper. Consider the following factors as you design your ideal workshop.
Electricity
Do you want your shipping container workshop connected to the power grid, or can it run on solar power? How many outlets are necessary, and where do you place them? Wall-mounted sockets can only go so far since you may also use an outlet on your workbench.
Lighting
Where will you have light fixtures installed in your workshop? Overhead tube lights are great as ambient lights, but you may need task lights for better focus on your workbench. Ensure that you minimise the glare and use a natural light temperature.
Shelves and Cabinets
Install shelves at the highest levels and corners of your shipping container walls. Free up space around your workbench and add a folding step ladder to reach the storage spaces.
Site
Will the shipping container workshop sit on a concrete slab or sloping ground? If you stack your shipping containers for a multi-level space, you’ll need some ground reinforcements to support their weight.
Plumbing
Will you handle lots of water in your workshop, or do you need a dedicated distillation system? Your shipping container garage workshop may also require a built-in bathroom if you spend extended periods in the space.
Container size
While many shipping container sizes are available today, the most common is 20ft or 40ft long. Your container size will determine how much clearance you’ll need to instal it on your site safely.
Budget
You’ll need to decide how much you want to spend on a shipping container for your project. Of course, customising your container into a workshop is an additional cost, so factor this when listing your workshop expenses.
Permits and Regulations
A shipping container garage workshop can be like a home, depending on your location. It must therefore meet specific building regulations like structural integrity and zoning laws. This is for your own and your neighbourhood’s safety.
You may also require a permit from your local council to set up your shipping container workshop.
Where to Get a Modified Shipping Container Workshop?
Gateway Containers is here for you if you’re looking for an already modified shipping container garage workshop. Our selection of mobile workshop containers comes with all the essential features you need. We have 20ft and 40ft portable workshop containers, already fitted with doors, windows, shelves and electricity.
Choose between a standard, high cube or insulated workshop container, plus the specifications of your choice. We can install air conditioning, whirlybird vents, insulation and skylights, chain hoists, workbenches, etc.
Final Thoughts
A shipping container garage workshop is the best way to go when you need a dedicated space for your DIY projects at home. Each shipping container workshop is unique: the design is intentional to meet your budget, environment, craft, and personal needs. Put some extra time, thought and planning into developing the perfect shipping container workshop that will last you for years.
In the end, consider the size of your workbenches, shelves and storage units in your workshop design. Essentials like ventilation, lighting, and plumbing play a big role in the container workshop efficiency as well. Aim for a functional space that meets your safety, comfort, and functionality–you’ll be spending plenty of time in your shipping container garage workshop.
All set to explore your shipping container workshop options? Our Gateway Guarantee means that your shipping container garage workshop comes directly from shipping lines, delivered to your doorstep, and made with quality workmanship.
You’ll have your shipping container workshop with zero stress, so you can jump straight to work and do what you love. Get in touch with Gateway Containers online, or call 07 3348 6463 today.
