Shipping Container Workshops
We convert shipping containers into fully functional workshops, built around your tools, trade, and workflow. Whether you need a compact garden workshop or a full-scale workspace for your business, we’ll deliver a high-quality unit, fully fitted and ready to use.
Custom container workshops for home or business use
From hobby sheds and home workshops to fully equipped spaces for trades, construction sites, and manufacturing, our container workshops are built to handle whatever you throw at them.
Every unit is built to order and specific to your needs, with options like:
- Workbenches and built-in desks
- Shelving and tool storage
- Internal lighting and power points
- Insulation and ventilation
- Security upgrades like reinforced doors and locks
- Windows, personnel doors, and partition walls
At home, on-site, or at your business premises, our container workshops are built tough, built smart, and delivered ready to work.
Our team works closely with you to design a space that fits your budget and makes the most of every square metre. All modifications are carried out in-house, so you get a smooth, hassle-free build from start to finish.
Our workshop container conversion process in 4 simple steps
Free consultation
Design & planning
Full conversion
Delivery & setup
Benefits of a shipping container workshop
Shipping container workshops offer a smarter, more flexible alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar builds. They’re becoming the go-to choice for practical, durable workspaces because of:
- Faster build times – Your workshop can be designed, built, and delivered in weeks, without the long lead times or disruption of a traditional construction project.
- Lower costs – Lower upfront costs combined with long-term durability make container workshops a smart, high-value investment.
- Built to last – Made from strong, weather-resistant corten steel, shipping container workshops are designed to withstand harsh conditions and hold up to daily use.
- Fully customisable – Every container workshop is built to match your trade, tools, and workflow, with layout and features designed to suit your needs.
- Portable and flexible – Container workshops can be moved, repositioned, or expanded as your needs change, making them ideal for flexible, long-term use.
Why choose Universal Containers for your container workshop conversion
With decades of experience in shipping containers and in-house conversion expertise, we know how to turn containers into fully functioning, high-quality workshops that are tough, practical, and built to last.
Over 40 years of container expertise
Everything handled in-house
Cost-effective without cutting corners
We build workshops right
Looking for a different type of space? Check out our other container conversion options
How long does it take to build a shipping container workshop?
It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the size and complexity of your build. We’ll always give you a clear timeline based on your specific design and keep you updated throughout the process.
How much does a container workshop conversion cost?
The cost of your shipping container workshop depends on the size, layout and level of finish. We’ll give you a clear, upfront quote based on your design – with no hidden extras.
Can I choose the layout and equipment?
Absolutely! Every container workshop we build is custom-designed. You choose the layout, storage options, workbenches, lighting, power points, and any other features you need, and we’ll build it around how you work.
Do I need planning permission for a container workshop?
In many cases, you may not need planning permission, especially for temporary or mobile use. Planning requirements vary depending on your location and how the container will be used. Read our full guide on container home planning permission to get all the information you need.
How secure is a shipping container workshop?
Very secure. Shipping containers are built from solid steel, and we can upgrade your unit with lockboxes, steel personnel doors, reinforced hinges, and other security features.
Can the workshop be insulated and heated?
Yes. We can insulate your workshop container and add electrics for lighting, heating, and tools, making it suitable for year-round use.
Our containers in action
See some of the ways our amazing customers are using their containers.
Case StudiesIn the pursuit of enhancing their museum and workshop facility, the Locomotive Society sought a creative solution to provide a welcoming space for their members, while adhering to the historical aesthetic of their railway centric environment.
Case StudiesUniversal Containers embarked on an exciting project to enhance a garden centre’s retail experience by supplying and customising two shipping container cabins. The goal was to seamlessly link these cabins on-site and transform them into a vibrant and functional gift shop.
Case StudiesA restaurant had been operating successfully for several years. However, due to increasing demand and limited space within the restaurant premises, the owners decided to expand their operations by introducing an outdoor catering unit.
Case StudiesThe local rugby club had been using a small, outdated ticket booth that no longer met their needs. The club’s management sought a more efficient and visually appealing solution that could accommodate their growing fan base.
Case StudiesThe client, an Industrial Chemical Storage Company specialising in chemical production and storage, faced the challenge of storing hazardous chemicals on their premises while adhering to stringent health and safety regulations.
ShippingUniversal Containers take pride in continually pushing the boundaries in product development within the shipping container industry.
These 2 large 32x10ft cabins were built for a British transport company. They requested a large space to act as a welfare facility for drivers and staff in the peak district. Due to the customer’s specific requirements, one unit was not large enough so we suggested 2 units, however floor space was an issue on-siteContinue reading “32ft × 10ft Stacked Cabins”
OfficesThis particular office unit was completed for a North-West-based container hire company.
Custom Built Atex Coshh store for storing gas bottles. This unit was custom built with corrugated steel panels 20ft long x 10ft wide. It had a fully ventilated floor from galvanised steel mesh, as well as 4 aluminium louver vents in the walls. We also fitted galvanised box section racks with chains on to holdContinue reading “20×10 Gas Bottle Store”
Corrugated steel cabin 32ft x 10ft with adjustable jacklegs anti vandal steel personnel door and anti-vandal aluminium sliding windows in steel shutters. Painted externally in non-corrosive container paint in a vibrant red. Internally with walls where lined in a cost-effective melamine faced chipboard and fully insulated throughout in Rockwool. The floor had hard wearing vinylContinue reading “Corrugated 32×10 Office / Store room”
Standard shipping container transformed into a bespoke storage unit. With multiple purposes across many industries. For example, self-storage companies or engineering companies for members of staff to lock tools away when not in use. The unit was split evenly into 8 small rooms approximately 5ftx4ft each by steel partition walls for security. Each room withContinue reading “20ft Multi-Bay Unit”
10ft container conversion for an off-grid company custom built to house a very large generator. The customer wanted a unit with multiple apertures and louver vents to allow for ventilation, they wanted all openings to have cover hoods to help stop water coming in. The Universal CAD team had a meeting with the client toContinue reading “10ft Generator Housing Container”
Site AccommodationThis 40ft x 12ft custom built flat panel cabin was a container conversion project completed for Eddie Stobart’s site.
Site AccommodationWithin today’s economic climate, many of us face struggles surrounding our finances.
A simple 20ft container converted for a customer who needed a unit for 2 uses, sometimes required as just a basic store and other times as an office space. We fitted 2 windows with steel security shutters and fitted an anti-vandal steel personnel door for easier access, especially when being used as an office, butContinue reading “Cladded Container Bar”
Storage container for Sliver cross baby in Skipton, our client wanted a cladded container to be used to store stock in their Skipton depot. As the unit was cladded externally in high graded larch cladding, we used a used 20ft container to help keep the cost down (as the container condition wouldn’t be seen) toContinue reading “20ft Cladded Store”
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