SHIPPING CONTAINER CONVERSIONS UNLOCKNG THE POTENTIAL OF SHIPPING CONTAINERS
Shipping containers, the workhorses of international trade, are much more than just cargo-carrying steel boxes.
Robust steel shipping container structures have proven their strength and durability in the shipping industry, offering unmatched sturdiness and excellent portability. Yet, their potential goes far beyond transporting goods through ports and docks worldwide!
VERSATILITY
ContainerKing® / Rent-a-Unit® unlock the versatility of shipping containers, transforming them into dynamic, usable spaces tailored to your boldest ideas or practical needs.
From a simple container office conversion to a fully customised studio workspace, our shipping container workshop conversions are always popular — but why stop there? Think bigger. Want your own branded workspace or a custom-built man cave? You could own it — and own the bragging rights too!
We also deliver bespoke container conversions for more traditional and practical applications. From insulated sports equipment storage containers to document and archive storage units, we can even fit a personal access door — a favourite among many customers for ease of use over the standard heavy-duty shipping container doors.
Garden rooms, chill-out zones, acoustic music studios? Whatever your vision, the possibilities are endless.
At ContainerKing® / Rent-a-Unit®, we specialise in delivering innovative portable space solutions — whether it’s for creativity, comfort, business or storage. Let’s turn your wild idea into a working reality.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER, PROMISES, PROMISES, EVERYBODY’S GOOD AT THAT!
OK, we need to be honest!
With a comprehensive range of container conversions already under our belt, nothing beats experience. We always aim to cater to a diverse range of customer needs and look hard for practical solutions to niggly problems — but we can’t always promise a “perfect solution.” So please, be realistic. We simply re-fabricate, convert, and fit out shipping containers!
Rest assured, we’re pretty damn good at it — but if you’re looking for miracles, we might not be your people!
For those seeking a simple yet functional workspace, our studio container conversions are funky, cool, and a massive hit with creatives and artists. They offer the perfect canvas for your next masterpiece or project space.
Workshop container conversions can be both practical and highly customised — a place of solitude, precision, or just somewhere to potter. Whether your ideas lean toward impractical extravagance or practical workspace solutions, we’ve worked with engineers, mechanics, fitters, florists, hobbyists, and more to deliver usable, creative container-based spaces that work.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and energy-efficient space — somewhere to relax, maybe? You’re in the right place.
A properly insulated shipping container conversion can be tailored to stay warm in winter, cool in summer, and cozy in any climate. Garden Room enthusiasts, this one's for you!
And let’s talk about the “man cave”… or the “she cave” — we’re not fussy! Whatever you call it, we build both. Because everyone deserves a private retreat.
How amazing would it be to have your own secluded space, away from daily pressures — a place to decompress, recharge, and reconnect with what matters? That’s a powerful step toward a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Whatever your vision, our shipping container conversion customers are proof that these adaptable spaces can elevate your lifestyle, boost your creativity, and even enhance your business potential.
Call us for a quote
01724 870000
BESPOKE WORKSHOP – MARLBOROUGH COMMUNICATIONS (A COHORT PLC COMPANY)
In February 2023 we were approached with a basic design brief for a bespoke 20ft shipping container conversion workshop for Gatwick based Marlborough Communications Limited, a world leading supplier of advanced electronic communications, information systems and signals intelligence technology to the defence and security sectors.
Whilst they had a concise idea of the general layout and specification of the unit, we soon established this conversation was leading to be anything but a conversation about a standard container workshop!
Using a 20ft one trip ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) shipping container the first job required a general re-fabrication of the shell, cutting out apertures for windows and a separate personnel door (steel insulated multi-locking, to be fitted with a vision panel) and for pre-fabricated metal pattress boxes positioned where external sockets, extractor fans, a power supply inlet box and external flashing beacon and siren needed to be fixed externally, and getting all these items welded and watertight sealed into position.
The next jobs was to externally de sticker, removing all standard shipping decals and backing glue before the unit was fully rubbed down and prepared for paint, even new “one trip” containers arrive in the UK with marks and scratches on the body and corner pillars of a shipping container. We also engaged with our local specialist contractor Webster Insulation to apply a polyurethane “spray foam insulation” to the ceiling (and walls when required) which amongst other benefits, prevents condensation to the internal of the structure.
After everything was prepared and ready and under controlled conditions we applied a premium 80% gloss, 2K custom paint in a colour bespoke to the corporate colours of our customer and the unit was then ready for the final fit out.
Using a standard s/w framing timber, the walls and ceiling were studded and joisted out and insulated with 100mm loft roll44, the ceiling was then boarded with 12.5mm vinyl faced white plasterboard, and the walls with special fire resistant coated 12mm ply, we built bespoke shelving and work benches to heights and depths and spacing required, the main work bench was constructed and topped with lipped and folded stainless steel to create the perfect work surface. All the electrics, panel heater for constant warmth in winter and curtain heater for immediate heat during other times, fire alarm, switches, sockets, fans etc were then all surface mounted and fitted and then finally we installed the DuraTread™ solid durable PVC Floor Tile System which was a great compliment to the job and to complete the conversion.
“Steve at Containerking handled our project with confidence and professionalism, from providing a concise detailed quotation to the timely delivery of the finished product. An excellent decision to pick Containerking as our chosen supplier.”
RENT-A-UNIT® CUSTOMISATION OPTIONS
Tailored Solutions
ContainerKing® / Rent-a-Unit offer a range of customisation options, allowing you to tailor your container conversion to perfection.
Whether you want to express your individual style, blend your unit into the background, or match your company’s branding, we’ve got you covered.
Choose from a wide variety of external paint colours — available in any B/S or RAL shade — and select from durable single-pack coatings or premium 2K paint finishes for a professional look.
Looking for something more natural? We can also externally clad your container in a range of attractive timber panelling styles. This option is perfect for creating a more stylish, aesthetically pleasing appearance — ideal for garden rooms, woodland settings, or any location where you want to hide the container and help it blend seamlessly into its surroundings.Security Built In
Security and comfort go hand in hand
We fit fully insulated, multi-locking steel personnel doors to ensure your container conversion is safe, secure, and energy-efficient. Optional vision panels can be included for added light and visibility. Prefer something different? We can also supply plastic or composite doors based on your requirements.
Our standard window options include steel-shuttered, double-glazed alloy sliding windows, offering both security and natural light. But if you’re looking for something a little more unique, we can install bespoke-sized windows — or even add patio doors, French doors, or bi-fold doors — to completely transform the appearance and functionality of your space.Interior Options
Interior Fit-Outs Tailored to Your Vision
The interior of your container conversion can be transformed with a range of wall lining and ceiling finish options. For basic storage or workshop units, we typically use Stirling board, plywood, or laminate linings. However, more premium finishes are available too — from decorative boarding to acoustic tile-lined walls, ideal for music studios, meeting rooms, or peaceful chill-out spaces by reducing echoes and improving sound clarity.
From minimalist to extravagant, our experienced team can fit out your unit with:
- Full electrical installations
- Kitchens and food prep areas
- Toilets and shower rooms
- Air conditioning and ventilation systems
- LED and ambient mood lighting
- Smart tech integration and more
BENEFITS OF SHIPPING CONTAINER CONVERSIONS
Why Choose a Shipping Container Conversion?
Opting for a shipping container conversion unlocks a world of practical benefits. First and foremost, it's a cost-effective alternative to traditional construction, saving both time and money. These strong, steel-framed structures can be repurposed quickly, offering reduced build times and faster turnaround, meaning your new space can be up and running in no time.
Their inherent mobility also provides flexibility — allowing easy relocation or future adaptation as your needs evolve. Container conversions are ideal for temporary or long-term use across many industries.
Add to that the sustainability factor — by reusing existing materials, you're making an environmentally conscious choice that contributes to reducing construction waste.
Whether you're looking for a garden room, studio, office, or workshop, experience the perfect combination of versatility, efficiency, and eco-friendly design — all tailored to suit your unique requirements.
PROCESS AND EXPERTISE
Stress-Free Delivery & Satisfaction Guaranteed
From the moment we receive your order to the day you take delivery of your new container conversion, we aim to make the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Once we've gathered all the necessary details — including your specifications, requirements, and agreed costs — you can leave the rest to us.
Our experienced team will handle every stage of the re-fabrication, spraying, and internal fit-out with precision and care, ensuring your unit is delivered ready to impress. With over 25 years of industry experience and countless satisfied customers across the UK, ContainerKing® takes pride in consistently delivering quality that never disappoints.
Get in touch
Get in Touch to Discuss Your Project
Contact us with your ideas, and we will arrange an initial discussion—either in person at our depot or over the phone. During this conversation, we’ll provide you with options, general advice, and an up-to-date lead time estimate.
To help us understand your vision, we kindly ask you to provide a basic hand-drawn plan and, if possible, an elevation drawing showing your desired internal layout, including the positions of any doors, windows, or other features.
Our Call Back
Once we receive your basic information, we will carefully review all details, consider any potential improvements or implications, and then give you a call back to discuss everything in further detail, outlining all available options.
Quotation
Once we have agreed on a design, layout, and specification, we will calculate the costs and provide a full quotation covering the unit, the work, and HIAB delivery for your consideration.
Accept Quote
On acceptance of our quotation, we are happy to accept a simple email instruction (in the case of a private individual) or purchase order which must include for a invoice name, address, delivery details and postcode.
Deposit
For all orders we will require a non refundable deposit which will be a proportion of the total order value. We base the value of this deposit on the uniqueness of your conversion… i.e. for example a straight forward lined and insulated container with electrics and maybe a single personal door which we could potentially resell to an alternate customer we would require a 30% deposit however for something more involved which is non standard and the demand in the market is limited we may require 50% of the order value as a non-refundable deposit in the event you did not complete the purchase or pay the outstanding balance or take delivery of your conversion.
Estimated Date
Once we have received your deposit, we will advise you of an estimated date of completion which is based at the time of receipt of your deposit. Business volumes can change rapidly in this industry, we would always tell you prior to you making a payment if our workload has changed. All materials we do not stock or special items will be ordered only after we are in funds.
The Build
We will carry out the re-fabrication, and all works to complete your bespoke shipping container conversion, we will keep you updated of progress and may well be in touch for anything unforeseen or to clarify details as the build is in progress.
Final Payment
Once the conversion has been completed you will be invited to pay us a visit to look over and satisfy yourself that we have carried out all work as agreed, at this point you will be required to make a full balancing payment prior to agreeing the delivery date.
Delivery
As we will now be in funds we will book in the delivery date and you will be looking forward to accepting the delivery.
*see link to delivery information HIAB Haulage on our web site.
Call us for a quote
01724 870000
EXTRA SPECIAL OR JUST EXTRA SPACE !!
So you have looked through all the information we have provided, your main decision now, aside from actually taking delivery of a dream container conversion, is to engage with a business you can trust with your project.
ContainerKing® / Rent-a-Unit® are a business you can trust. We are exceptionally well capitalised, meaning your deposit and investment are completely safe whilst you await the delivery of your unit. Trusted by hundreds of customers over 25 years in this business, ContainerKing® / Rent-a-Unit® operate with sound principles — “priorities ahead of profit.”
We believe that getting our priorities right, looking after our customers, and doing great work is the key to our success. We don’t have the capacity to convert lots of shipping containers, so the conversions we do for our customers, we take our time and do them well.
Looking to sell a cabin?
We also buy existing cabins for re-furbishment and onward use. Get in touch if you would like to enquire about selling your existing cabin.
EnquireLatest news from RENT-A-UNIT®
All the latest industry news brought to you by the team at RENT-A-UNIT®
Read the Latest