5 Important Things to Consider When Planning a Shipping Container Workshop
1 April 2026
When planning a containerised workshop, there are a number of things to consider to work out your desired specification.
Many people love shipping container workshops, for the very fact that they can easily be picked up and moved to another area or site at a later date if required. They can even be shipped abroad if required. We’ll just need to know if you want to export it.
1) What tools and machinery will you be using, and what voltages do they require?
You may need multiple power phases if for example you intend to run 110v power tools alongside large 3 phase machines. Are any emergency stop/power off buttons needed for safety purposes on any large machines? Are any tools air powered, requiring compressed air?
2) Will you be carrying out any ‘hot works’?
If you plan to weld, you may need to consider whether the plywood container floor might need overlaying with something like steel chequer plate. You may also need to consider whether lining and insulating the walls is appropriate, the steel walls may be a better surface.
3) Do you require any workbenches, and if so, what type of work will be taking place on them?
Lighter duty benches and heavy duty are available, and with a variety of tops, it will be important to fit the right one for you.
4) Do you require storage inside the workshop?
It’s very easy to incorporate a variety of smart storage solutions into any container workshop. Maybe under your workbench, you would like a set of drawers or cupboards. Perhaps you would find some wall mounted hooks useful for hanging tools on, or some ‘lin bins’ for easy access and storage of small parts such as screws.
5) Is any specialist ventilation/extraction required?
Louver vents may suffice, but if you are carrying out hot works for example, you may want an extraction arm or hood to remove fumes. Dust removal options may also be required for woodwork.
