Can You Turn a Shipping Container into a Shop? Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated on April 11, 2025
So have you ever thought of converting a shipping container into a shop? Shipping containers are becoming a very popular choice for businesses, as they are cost-effective, portable and secure. Let’s look into the key considerations to see if this is the right option for you.
The benefits of a shipping container shop
Shipping containers are a convenient way of creating a shop, compared to traditional brick-and-mortar shops. They are durable and secure, and they can have windows and doors added quickly and easily along with any internal conversion work. Repurposing a shipping container is an eco-friendly option which also has the flexibility of being portable, having the option to relocate if necessary.
What to consider before converting a shipping container
Planning permission
First of all, you will need to consider whether you’ll need planning permission. Local council regulations do vary, so it is always best to check with your local council prior to converting a shipping container.
Size and space
The size of the container is also important, as is the layout. Plans should be drawn up to ensure that everything you need will fit into the available space. Shipping containers come in various sizes: 10ft x 8ft, 20ft x 8ft and 40ft x 8ft externally. With lining and insulation fitted the interior dimensions will be less than this.
Essential fittings and services
Other requirements that must be considered are ventilation, floor coverings, windows, doors, electrics, plumbing and internet fittings. Electrics and internet cabling are generally surface mounted in trunking.
Customisation options
Items such as patio doors and French doors can be fitted into containers, with an additional security option of having a roller shutter in front. Windows can also have shutters installed in front of them. The container can be painted externally with fire-rated paint, and decals or livery can be added as well to brand your container. The flooring could be vinyl, laminate, or even waterproof if necessary.
All conversion work will be done in the depot prior to delivery to the site.
Costs and what to expect
The cost of your project will entirely depend on the extent of the conversions required. We price up conversion work and delivery from a listed specification and sketch/drawing. From pricing to delivery, the whole process can be very much quicker than a bricks-and-mortar build.
Businesses using containers
There are a number of business areas that use containers instead of buildings. Some examples include Beach Street in Felixstowe, a retail park with shops and food outlets, and Pop-up Brixton, where they are used as food outlets for small startup businesses, renting space for around a year to kick-start their business, before moving on to bigger and better things. Containers are used for office buildings, construction site welfare, workshops, etc.
Is a shipping container conversion right for you?
If you are looking for cost-effective, flexible, secure and portable business premises, with minimal delivery and setup time, then this may be the right option for you.
How we can help
For all your conversion requirements, help with specification and plans, pricing, and a fast efficient service, call Billie Box Ltd on 0800 121 7388 or email us. Check out our website for examples of our previous conversions.
