What Is a Modified Shipping Container?
Modified shipping containers: In the simplest terms, a modified shipping container is a standard ISO container that’s been altered for a new purpose — usually beyond just storing stuff. Modifications range from minimal (like adding ventilation or a lockbox) to full-on transformations (think offices, bars, homes, or mobile labs).
At Containerlift, we don’t just deliver these units — we see them on sites and in cities every day. Some are ingenious. Some are questionable. Some are brilliantly bonkers.
Let’s explore the types, the practicalities, and whether you should consider joining the modified container revolution.
Popular Types of Modified Container
Site Offices & Welfare Units
A classic. 20ft or 40ft containers fitted with:
- Lighting and electrics
- Insulation and lining
- Windows and doors
- Desks, heating, even a toilet
Often found on construction sites, pop-up depots, or remote work areas.
Retail and Hospitality Units
Yes, you can sling coffee from a container — and do it well. Modified containers for hospitality can include:
- Serving hatches
- Plumbing
- Commercial-grade electrics
- Stylish cladding or branding
Used by:
- Bars
- Coffee vendors
- Street food stalls
- Ticket booths
Container Homes and Living Spaces
These require heavy modifications — think multiple units joined together, full plumbing, HVAC, kitchens, insulation, cladding, windows, and planning permission.
Used for:
- Temporary accommodation
- Emergency housing
- Off-grid cabins
Caution: Legal, structural and insulation challenges abound. It’s not just plug and play.
Workshops, Studios & Server Rooms
Secure, climate-controlled, mobile — containers can be kitted out for:
- Art studios
- Repair shops
- Secure IT/data housing
- Music rehearsal rooms
What Modifications Are Actually Available?
Here’s a breakdown of the most common upgrades:
| Modification | Description | Cost Estimate |
| Personnel doors | Easy walk-in access | £300–£600 |
| Windows | With or without security shutters | £250–£500 |
| Electrics & lighting | Wired plugs, lights, RCD boards | £500–£1,200 |
| Insulation & lining | Kingspan, rockwool, ply or melamine | £1,000–£2,500 |
| Partition walls | Split into rooms or sections | £300–£900 |
| External cladding | Timber or metal skin for aesthetics/weather protection | £1,500+ |
| Flooring upgrades | Vinyl, resin, checker plate | £500–£1,000 |
| Heating/AC | Electric heaters or air con units | £250–£2,000 |
Prices are an industry average and should be taken as a guide. please consult our experts about any modification you would like to have.
Pro tip: Modifications are cheaper when done by professionals before delivery — retrofitting on-site costs more.
Modified vs Standard: When Is It Worth It?
Go for Modified If:
- You need to work inside the container (office, shop, workshop)
- Your container needs power, lighting, or comfort
- It’s going to be used long-term
- You want something moveable but usable from day one
Stick with Standard If:
- You just need dry, secure storage
- The container will be used short-term
- You’re on a tight budget
- You’re planning to do the work yourself later
The Pros of Using Modified Containers
✅ Cost-effective space – Far cheaper than brick and mortar
✅ Portable – Move your workspace as needed
✅ Quick to deploy – Often ready in days
✅ Customisable – Match your brand or purpose
✅ Secure – Heavy-duty build, lockable and weatherproof
✅ Minimal groundwork needed – Can be placed on hardcore or pads
H2: And the Cons (Let’s Be Honest)
❌ Planning permission required (for some uses like homes or retail)
❌ May not be suitable for all weather without insulation
❌ Initial modification costs can mount up
❌ Not as soundproof or heat-retentive as a traditional building
❌ Limited internal width (just over 2m) unless you join multiple containers
Planning, Legal & Practical Considerations
Do I need planning permission?
- For residential use: yes, always
- For commercial use: often, especially if fixed in place
- For temporary use on private land: often no, but check with your local council
Building regulations?
If it’s used as a workplace or accommodation, you’ll likely need to comply with:
- Fire regs
- Disability access
- Insulation standards
- Electrical safety
Tip: Partner with a modification company that handles this — or risk a costly redo.
How Are Modified Containers Delivered?
Same way as standard containers — but with more care.
- Delivered via side loader truck
- Lifted and placed directly on-site
- We’ll ask for site photos to ensure access and stability
- For larger units, escort vehicles or multi-truck deliveries may be needed
Containerlift’s fleet is specially designed to deliver even complex modified containers. No crane? No problem.
Real Use Case Scenarios
☕ Pop-Up Café in Brighton
- 40ft container
- Full-length serving hatch
- Branding and signage
- Power and plumbing installed
“We opened within 3 weeks of getting the container. It’s quirky, compact and we can move if needed.”
Mobile Repair Workshop in Manchester
- 20ft container
- Shelving, LED lights, reinforced flooring
- Delivered to multiple construction sites as needed
“Far easier than hiring permanent units. It follows our projects across the North West.”
Data Storage Room in Cambridge
- 10ft container
- Climate control, fireproof insulation, secure locks
“More secure and faster to set up than building a dedicated facility.”
Case Study: Containerlift Delivers Custom Office to Scottish Wind Farm.
Client: Renewable energy company operating in rural Perthshire
Need: Temporary office space with electrics and insulation
Challenge: Remote location with limited crane access
Solution:
- Containerlift sourced a fully modified 20ft container office
- Delivered via side loader truck over 2-day access route
- Positioned exactly on prepared hardcore base
- No external crane hire required
Features Installed:
- 2x double-glazed windows
- 1x personnel door with push-bar exit
- Melamine lining and LED lights
- RCD fuse box and plug sockets
- Timber effect vinyl flooring
Result:
- On-site and operational within 48 hours
- Project managers now want two more units for the next wind farm phase
“We were going to use portacabins, but Containerlift showed us how much better a custom container could be — and they delivered it to the middle of nowhere without a fuss.”
“Modified containers offer flexibility, brick buildings can only dream of — and with the right prep, they’ll outlast them too.”
– Technical Manager, Containerlift
Need a container that does more than just store?
From offices to cafés, studios to server rooms — we’ll help you design and deliver a modified container that works exactly the way you need it to.
👉 Get a Free Quote Today
