Many start-ups and small businesses are utilizing shipping containers as office spaces or place of business operations. The best thing about these shipping containers is that they are budget friendly with very affordable used shipping container prices, are sturdy, and a sustainable option for every type of business. Having a strong steel exterior, these containers are able to withstand inclement weather with relative ease.
In addition, these shipping containers have industrial grade locks, giving businesses the assurance of utmost security while they are away. Moreover, these used containers are considered space efficient due to their compact nature, square footage, and dimensions.
Top Benefits of Used Shipping Containers
Another benefit of utilizing shipping containers is that they are fully customizable to form any kind of layout and design. The containers are suitable for use as permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary structures.
Let us now look at some businesses which can be started from a used shipping container.
Seven Businesses to Start from a Used Shipping Container
Retail Stores
Used shipping containers for sale are the perfect option for boutiques and small retail businesses, which they can use as a storefront. A startup business selling retail items can use shipping containers to provide the required space on a comparatively small budget. In addition, if afterwards a need arises for more space then these containers can be easily stacked.
Pop Up Shops
A popular trend in recent years is of seasonal or large retailers utilizing used containers for sale. The benefit of these containers is that they work as an extension of their existing brick and mortar storefront.
Additionally, these pop up shops are able to accommodate a larger crowd compared to the original store. Moreover, used shipping containers used as pop up shops are an ideal option if you have seasonal business requirements and renting a shop for the whole year is not required.
For instance, you may be selling things that have a high demand only during certain months, like fireworks, holiday items, Christmas trees, or firewood and need some space to store the products during that time only.
The positive thing about used containers for sale is that they are portable and you can put them virtually anywhere.
Studio or Workshop
If the business you are planning to start will be focusing on a certain skill then you need to look into using shipping containers as your office space. For example, if the business involves teaching artistic crafts to others such as photography, music, carpentry, or art then containers are an ideal option.
Containers will provide a professional space to set up a business instead of having to work out of your home. Moreover, you will have to break the bank to rent an office for your new business.
Coffee Shops
Coffee distributors and brewers are using containers for sale as coffee shops. It proves to be a viable option since many privately owned and small shops do not require plenty of space for selling coffee and serving their customers.
All these businesses need is a storage space, counter space, and space to set up a couple of tables and chairs. The popularity of this trend can be judged from the fact that even well-established corporations such as Starbucks have started setting up coffee shops inside shipping containers.
Construction Firms
This industry makes use of shipping containers for running day to day operations. You will find most of the contractors and construction firms setting up their temporary offices at construction sites inside shipping containers.
The benefit of using these containers is that they provide construction companies with the required space to safely store their materials and tools while the work is going on. These containers also function as a shelter while the construction project is in progress.
The weather proof construction of these containers makes them suitable for use in the rugged conditions present at a construction site.
E-commerce Workspace
If you are running an e-commerce online store like an Etsy shop, then used shipping containers are something you need to look into. If the business grows and the customer base increases, then more space will be required to continue your work, meet clients, and store your inventory.
The benefit of shipping containers is that the container can be divided into two parts, where one part can be utilized for storing inventory while the other part can function as a work space.
Mobile Shops
If you plan to start a mobile shop in the food and beverage industry, such as an ice cream shop then shipping containers will definitely be suitable.
The positive thing about using shipping containers is that you can set them up in public locations so that your business can serve pedestrians and passersby. These containers are portable, space conducive, and can also be set up with a service window so that customers can be easily serviced.
Thus, if you are starting a business and do not want to burn your entire budget on renting space to set up your office and workshop, then a used shipping container is the right option for you. They are sturdy, extendable, compact, and cost less to set up.
You can set them up within a short time and start your business in no time. Moreover, down the line, if your business expands then you can easily stack used shipping containers one over the other with relative ease.
