Last Updated: February 13, 2023
How Much Does a Construction Office Trailer Cost?
Portable trailers are found on almost every construction site. They’re used for sales and leasing or management offices. Portable trailers are ideal for the construction industry because they’re suited for temporary use - when the project is complete, they can be hauled away.
Portable construction trailers can be rented or purchased outright. Some are basic; others have upgrades such as full bathrooms, multiple rooms, and heating and cooling systems. Portable trailers are available in a variety of sizes and configurations, too.
One of the greatest benefits of portable trailers is that they are built in a factory and arrive on site pre-assembled. They come complete with doors, windows, plumbing and wiring - making the setup process quick and simple.
Cost of Construction Portable Office Trailer
The cost of a portable office trailer depends on the type of trailer, whether you rent or buy, the trailer’s features and geographic location. Trailers are most expensive on the east and west costs, cheaper in the Midwest and the least expensive in southern states.
Rental rates usually range from about $100-$500 per month. A small 8’ X 20’ trailer will fall on the low end of that range, while a large 12’ X 60’ trailer will fall on the high end. In addition to monthly fees, budget about $1,000-$1,500 for delivery and setup, and $400-$1,000 for removal.
Accessories such as steps leading up to the tailer or decorative skirts to hide the wheels usually cost extra, too. Steps cost about $25-$50 per month to rent, while a skirt usually has a one-time fee of about $500-$750.
If you’d rather purchase a construction trailer outright, budget anywhere from $15,000-$30,000, plus transportation costs to move the trailer from one site to another.
Renting vs. Buying Construction Portable Office Trailers
The vast majority of construction companies go for the rental option. The trailer is delivered when it’s needed, serves its purpose during construction and is hauled away when the project is complete. There’s little hassle.
However, if your company has a permanent need for a trailer that can be moved from one site to the next, you might consider buying. For the price of leasing a trailer from three to five years, you could buy one outright. However, keep in mind that owning a trailer involves transporting it from one site to the next yourself. For many construction companies, that alone is a deal breaker.
Choosing a Dealer
There are many companies that sell or lease portable office trailers to the construction industry, and some are better than others. Below are some tips for finding a reputable, experienced company with fair prices.
- Seek quotes from multiple companies to compare prices. Throw out any bids that seem suspiciously high or low. However, never choose on price alone. Always consider each company’s experience and reputation.
- Do some background research into any company you’re considering. Ask for references and call them all. Were they satisfied with the condition of the trailer? Was the price reasonable? If you’re renting, was the trailer delivered and picked up on time? Check each company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau and find out how long they’ve been in business.
- No two construction companies have the same needs when it comes to portable office trailers. Some are looking for a small trailer with few frills. Others are looking for a large trailer with all the conveniences of a modern office. Choose a dealer that will work with you to customize the office trailer. Dealers with a one-size-fits-all approach are rarely the best choice.
- Before any work begins, get a contract in writing that details all expenses and specific delivery dates. Make sure the contract includes a line-by-line breakdown of all costs, including the cost of delivery and setup.