Last Updated: February 13, 2023
How Much Does it Cost to Rent an Office Trailer?
Portable office trailers are ideal for creating temporary office space. They’re built in a factory and arrive on site pre-assembled. They come complete with doors, windows, bathrooms, plumbing and wiring - making the setup process quick and simple.
All sorts of businesses, organizations and industries use portable trailers. Trailers serve as sales, leasing or central offices on construction sites, temporary classrooms for schools, storage facilities, or office space for companies that have outgrown their buildings.
Portable trailers are available in a variety of sizes and configurations. Some are very basic; others have been upgraded with features like bathrooms, multiple exits and heating and cooling systems. Portable trailers are available for rent or they can be purchased outright.
Cost to Rent a Portable Office Trailer
Rental rates vary based on the size of the trailer, its amenities and geographic location. Renting or leasing a trailer is most expensive on the east and west costs, cheaper in the Midwest and the least expensive in southern states.
- A small 8’ X 20’ trailer can be rented for about $100-$200 per month in most places.
- A larger 10’ X 40’ trailer might rent for $150-$300 per month.
- A large 12’ X 60’ trailer (a standard single wide) might cost $300-$500 per month.
Most rental companies charge extra for delivery, setup and removal. Plan on spending about $1,000-$1,500 for delivery and setup, and $400-$1,000 for removal. Keep in mind that most rental companies have a three-month minimum and offer discounted rates for signing a one-year contract.
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.
Renting vs. Buying Portable Office Trailers
Most companies choose to lease office trailers rather than buy them outright. Portable trailers are designed as a temporary solution, so purchasing outright often doesn’t make financial sense. A construction company might need a trailer for six months or a school might need one for a year.
Purchased outright, portable office trailers are expensive. A trailer that rents for $400 per month might cost $15,000-$40,000 to buy, whereas rental rates for a year would add up to $4,800, not including delivery, setup and removal. However, if you’re planning to use the trailer for several years or move it from site to site, buying might be the best option.
Choosing a Dealer
There are many companies that sell or lease portable office trailers, and some are better than others. You should never choose a company at random. Here are some tips for finding a company that is reputable but has 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 trailer delivered and picked up on time? Was the price reasonable? Check each company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau and find out how long they’ve been in business.
- No two businesses have the same needs when it comes to portable office trailers. Some companies 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 project expenses and the project timeline. Make sure the contract includes a line-by-line breakdown of all costs, including labor.