If you’re doing longer-term site work, you may need a place to set up a mobile office. Having an on-site construction trailer can be beneficial to you, the client, and everyone working on the project. Renting a construction trailer provides you with an instant office that’s affordable and provides an added layer of professionalism.
The rental cost for a construction trailer can range anywhere from $100-$1000 per month, depending on the size and features. That doesn’t typically include delivery and removal fees. However, there are other factors that may impact the bottom line price and many other details to consider besides just the cost.
| Trailer Size | Length of Rental | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 8x20 | 3 months | $450 |
| 8x20 | 6 months | $900 |
| 8x20 | 9 months | $1350 |
| 8x20 | 12 months | $1800 |
| 8x20 | 18 months | $2700 |
| 10x40 | 3 months | $675 |
| 10x40 | 6 months | $1350 |
| 10x40 | 9 months | $2025 |
| 10x40 | 12 months | $2700 |
| 10x40 | 18 months | $4050 |
| 12x60 | 3 months | $1200 |
| 12x60 | 6 months | $2400 |
| 12x60 | 9 months | $3600 |
| 12x60 | 12months | $4800 |
| 12x60 | 18 months | $7200 |
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How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Construction Trailer?
The average cost to rent a construction trailer is around $300 per month, but there are many factors that will impact the price. Rental costs range from as low as $100 per month for very small units to upwards of $1000 or more per month for larger, more complex designs.
It may seem like a lot of money for just a trailer rental, but consider that the retail cost to own one can be $30,000 or more. Not to mention insurance, maintenance, and other expenses that you don’t have to worry about as a renter.
The total cost to rent a construction trailer can vary significantly depending on the square footage, the design options that you choose, added features that you prefer, and even what area of the country you’re located in.
Average Monthly Rental Costs
| Trailer Size | Minimum Cost | Maximum Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small | $150 | $200 |
| Mid-Sized | $150 | $300 |
| Large (Single -Wide) | $300 | $500 |
Average Cost By Region
| Cost Range | Region |
|---|---|
| Most expensive | East and West Coasts |
| Less expensive | Midwestern States |
| Least expensive | Southern States |
A Breakdown of Costs to Rent a Construction Trailer
When it comes to the cost to rent or leasing a construction trailer, the trailer’s size is the most significant factor impacting the price. However, like all construction business expenses, the price can fluctuate seasonally as well. For example, during the spring and summer months when there is more demand for construction equipment, the prices may be higher than during the winter months.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the other factors that affect the cost and what kinds of considerations you should make when planning to rent a construction trailer.
What Size Construction Trailer Do You Need?
The trailer’s size is the first (and most important) thing that you’ll need to consider. Depending on what your exact use will be and the space that you’ll be placing the trailer, there is a wide range of options.
Single-wide units are the most common use for a mobile office or for storage at a construction site. In general, anywhere from 1-6 adults can comfortably work inside a single-wide unit, depending on the exact dimensions.
To give you an idea, here are some of the common dimensions and square footage:
| Trailer Size (Dimensions in feet) | Square Footage |
|---|---|
| 8x20 | 160 |
| 8x28 | 224 |
| 8x32 | 256 |
| 8x36 | 288 |
| 10x44 | 440 |
| 10x50 | 500 |
| 12x32 | 384 |
| 12x44 | 528 |
| 12x56 | 672 |
| 12x60 | 720 |
| 14x45 | 630 |
Source: 360connect.com
Trailers can also be double-wide or triple-wide, but these are less common options. Double wides are typically 1,000-2,000 square feet and can include more features like a kitchen and bathroom.
A triple-wide unit can accommodate around 20 adults and is bigger than most people need. These are also more expensive because of the delivery and installation work required to assemble them on-site.
You should plan for the rental cost of a construction trailer to increase as the size of the unit increases. In addition, more partitions (more “rooms”) will also generally mean slightly larger fees.
Average Monthly Rental Cost by Size
To determine what size trailer you need, you can decide based on how many people will need to be inside the trailer at any given time. In most cases, a single adult will need about 100-150 square feet of space.
It’s a good idea to ensure that the dimensions of the trailer you select include the usable space when you’re figuring out how big the trailer needs to be. For example, the trailer hitch will add to the total measurement of the trailer, but this is not usable space inside the unit.
You should also measure the location where the trailer will be delivered to ensure that there is a large enough area to deliver and set up the trailer. Don’t forget that the delivery vehicle will need to be able to access the area.
Trailer Size by Number of Occupants (Single Wide)
| Trailer Dimensions | Trailer Size (Square Ft.) | Number Occupants |
|---|---|---|
| 8x20 | 160 | 2 |
| 10x44 | 400 | 4 |
| 12x60 | 720 | 8 |
Length of Rental (Time)
After you determine what size trailer you need, you should think about how long you will need it for. According to 360 Mobile Office, the average rental period is anywhere between 9 and 24 months, with longer-term rentals lasting up to three years.
It’s important to consider the long-term cost of your rental and make sure it doesn’t make more sense to purchase a trailer for ongoing use.
| Trailer Size (in feet) | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 8x20 | $100 - $200 |
| $100 - $200 | $150 -$300 |
| 12x60 | $300 - $500 |
Delivery, Installation, and Pickup Fees
In addition to your base rental cost, you will also need to plan for the fees to deliver the trailer, set it up, and then pick it up for removal when your rental period ends.
Most companies figure the delivery fee by considering both the size of the trailer and the distance that it will be transported. In general, you should budget between $1000 and $1500 for the delivery and set-up of your construction trailer at the job site.
Depending on the company, they may also charge you for breakdown and removal, which is typically between $300 – $1000. Again, this fee will depend on the size of the unit and the distance that it will travel.
You should check with the company to see if they offer any discounted rates for an extended rental period if you plan to keep it for several months. Similarly, it’s also a good idea to make sure that the company doesn’t require a set minimum number of months if you don’t need the trailer for very long.
In addition to the supplier’s set-up fees, you’ll also need to consider the set-up for electricity and other utilities, if you’re planning to include those features.
Other common expenses to consider include:
- Electricity/power
- Water
- Plumbing/sewage (for bathrooms)
- Telephones
- Internet
- Cable
- Security monitoring
Preparing the Site
Depending on where the trailer is being delivered and set up, you may need to take some steps to prepare the site.
The ground needs to be level and clear of vegetation. The ground where the trailer is being set up (and the driveway or path to the location) needs to be able to support the weight of the trailer and the delivery vehicle.
If the ground is too soft, you may need to create a foundation to support the weight of the trailer by using asphalt paving, concrete, gravel, or railroad ties. These would all be additional costs for you to consider.
Construction Trailer Features and Add-Ons
Most construction trailer rentals will include similar basic features and amenities. These will likely include windows, vinyl flooring, lighting, and HVAC units. Many also include bathroom facilities.
If you want added features such as electrical connections, ethernet or WiFi connectivity, data ports, shelving, furniture such as desks, dry-erase boards, or upgraded flooring, then you should plan for additional charges for these amenities.
Additionally, if you need accessibility equipment like metal ramps and steps, you should make sure to get quotes on adding these features. In general, however, you should plan to spend at least an additional $35 for metal steps, and more for a ramp depending on the length.
Some people like to add security cameras or metal skirting to improve the appearance of the trailer by hiding the wheels, but this is an optional upgrade. Metal skirting can also keep rodents and other small animals out from underneath the trailer, which may be important depending on what you’re storing inside. Skirting can add an additional $500 to $800 to the rental, depending on the size of the trailer.
When to Consider Renting a Construction Trailer
Construction trailers are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of industries and settings. There are potential uses for these mobile offices that may surprise you. If your situation includes one of these common uses, then it might be a good idea to consider renting a construction trailer.
- Construction – Provides an instant onsite office for planning, meetings, and storing important items and paperwork; workspace for contractors, builders, and foreman.
- Retail – Provides additional storage, retail, or office space during busy seasons, when a larger space isn’t needed year-round.
- Medical – The trailer can provide an on-location, portable mobile clinic, lab, or serve as additional office space or for records storage.
- Education – Can be used as a temporary classroom during construction or renovations, as additional office space, or for storing records and supplies.
- Nonprofits – Many organizations would benefit from a “pop-up” center to provide services to the communities that they serve.
Benefits of Renting a Construction Trailer
Having an onsite office space is almost always a plus for your business, especially if your work is performed on location.
Here are some benefits to consider that help show why the cost of renting a trailer can pay off, especially if you work in the construction industry:
- Safety – Construction trailers provide an onsite office where you can store first aid supplies, safety gear, and refreshments. This is especially important during the summer months when heat exhaustion is prevalent. A place where an employee can get out of the heat for a moment and drink some water is important to maintain a safe job site.
- Security – Tools, materials, and other valuable items can be secured inside the construction trailer both during and after working hours. Also, the presence of an onsite trailer could help to deter would-be thieves or vandals.
- Professionalism – Having an onsite office space elevates the level of professionalism at your job site. A construction trailer creates an instant office where you and your foreman can conduct business, take meetings, return phone calls, or complete paperwork as needed.
- Affordability – A rental trailer is a temporary investment that you can make on an as-needed basis. Unlike a brick-and-mortar office space, the rental period can be ended when the job is over or any time that business is slower and the unit is no longer needed. Even if you kept the rental for longer periods, it would still be less expensive than renting an office.
Portable Building Options
The Bottom Line
Renting a construction trailer can cost anywhere from $100 to $1000 per month, but most people spend under $500 per month for a standard rental. This can be a good investment for your business if you need a temporary workspace or something that is mobile.
While there are additional expenses to think about, it’s also important to consider more than just the cost. There are many benefits to renting a construction trailer if it fits your situation. You may also be interested in mobile office rental costs.
