FAQs

HOW ARE SHIPPING CONTAINERS USED IN COMMERCIAL SETTINGS?

Our containers are used in a variety of commercial settings due to their security, durability, and high degree of customization. They’re an efficient solution for:

• On-site offices: A modified container can be a secure and comfortable workspace on a jobsite. It can be outfitted with insulation, climate control, electrical packages, and built-in desks, providing a professional and functional office without the high cost or hassle of a mobile trailer.
• Secure storage: Our containers are an ideal solution for storing valuable tools, equipment, and materials. Their all-steel construction and secure locking mechanisms provide superior protection against theft and vandalism, keeping your assets safe.
• Mobile workshops: For jobs that require specialized on-site work, a container can be transformed into a mobile workshop. We can add workbenches, lighting, and power outlets to create a dedicated, secure space for fabrication and repairs.
• Workforce housing and facilities: For remote or long-term projects, containers can be configured into temporary housing, breakrooms, or even restrooms and locker rooms, contributing to employee comfort and retention on the jobsite.

Our containers are a highly flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional structures, offering a reliable way to manage a project, protect assets, and support your team.

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE A SHIPPING CONTAINER OVER A BRICK-AND-MORTAR BUILDING OR OTHER MODULAR STRUCTURE?

When it comes to your on-site needs, shipping containers offer significant advantages over traditional construction or modular structures.

Unlike brick-and-mortar buildings, containers are a cost-effective solution with a much faster lead time. You can get a fully functional office or secure storage unit delivered to your site in weeks, not months. Because they're built for transport, you can easily relocate them to a new jobsite as your project evolves, making them a long-term, portable asset.

A container is a versatile investment. A single unit can serve as a secure storage space today, be modified into a mobile office next year, and then be repurposed for a completely different use on your next project. This flexibility and ability to adapt make containers a durable, long-term asset that provides lasting value.

WHAT IS THE TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP FOR A PURCHASED CONTAINER VERSUS A TRADITIONAL ON-SITE OFFICE?

When you look at the total cost of ownership, a purchased shipping container office is a far better long-term investment than a traditional mobile office trailer.

While the initial purchase price of a container office might be similar to that of a trailer, the long-term savings are significant. Containers are built with all-steel components, making them more durable and resistant to the wear and tear of frequent relocation. This durability translates to lower maintenance and repair costs over the life of the unit. Unlike a wood-framed trailer that can become rickety and degrade over time, a steel container maintains its structural integrity for decades.

Container offices sit directly on the ground, which eliminates the need for expensive and cumbersome stairs or ramps, a requirement for most traditional office trailers to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards. This ground-level access not only reduces your setup costs but also makes for a safer and more convenient work environment for your crew and any visitors to the site.

WHAT CAN SHIPPING CONTAINERS BE USED FOR?

Shipping containers are one of the most versatile and durable building materials available today and have a range of uses. Their secure, steel structure and modular design allow for extensive customization, making them a cost-effective solution for a wide variety of needs.

For commercial and industrial use, containers are often used for:

• Mobile offices: A climate-controlled workspace that can be delivered quickly and relocated as needed, perfect for on-site project management
• Workforce housing: A secure and comfortable solution for temporary or remote employee accommodation
• Secure storage: A protected space to safeguard valuable tools, equipment, and building materials from theft, vandalism, and the elements
• Climate-controlled storage: An insulated unit with an HVAC system to store temperature-sensitive materials, files, or electronics
• Customized equipment enclosures: A modified structure designed to safely house and protect sensitive machinery, generators, or control systems

Beyond the jobsite, containers are also used for a variety of other applications, including:

• Retail and pop-up shops: An economical way to create a temporary or mobile storefront
• Cabins and tiny homes: A durable and eco-friendly foundation for a retreat or full-time residence
• Mobile breakrooms and bathrooms: An on-site facility for your crew, saving time and improving morale
• Workshops and art studios: A private, secure space for hobbies or fabrication

HOW SECURE ARE SHIPPING CONTAINERS AGAINST THEFT?

Our containers are built with security at the forefront. Our steel containers are made with thick, corrugated steel panels that are welded to a reinforced steel frame, providing a secure barrier for your valuable tools and materials. The cargo doors feature a cam-and-lock system with multiple vertical locking rods. This heavy-duty design makes it incredibly difficult to break into our containers with standard tools.

For enhanced security, we offer a range of additional features:

• Lockboxes: We can weld a steel lockbox over your padlock, protecting it from bolt cutters and other tampering attempts.
• Reinforced door locks and bars: We can add reinforced steel door bars that provide an extra layer of protection, making it nearly impossible to force the doors open. 
• Barred windows and shutters: For modified containers with windows, we can install sturdy steel bars or weld-on steel shutters that lock from the inside, preventing entry and providing peace of mind when the container is unattended.

ARE YOUR CONTAINERS WEATHERPROOF AND DURABLE?

Yes, our containers are both weatherproof and exceptionally durable.

They’re engineered to the rigorous standards of international shipping, designed to protect valuable cargo across thousands of miles of turbulent seas and extreme climates. Our containers are built with heavy-duty Corten steel, a specialized alloy that forms a protective layer of rust when exposed to the elements. This unique feature prevents further corrosion, making the container's exterior highly resistant to deterioration over time.

For additional protection, containers are painted with a rust-resistant coating and feature wind- and watertight door seals, ensuring that your valuable equipment and materials are completely protected from rain, snow, dust, and wind.

ARE THE CONTAINERS RESISTANT TO VANDALISM AND EXTERNAL DAMAGE?

Our containers are highly resistant to vandalism and external damage. They’re constructed from Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, which is specifically designed to withstand extreme conditions and deter forced entry. The corrugated panels and reinforced steel frame provide a tough, protective shell that is difficult to dent or penetrate.

This all-steel construction is far stronger than traditional wood-framed mobile offices and other modular structures, ensuring your valuable assets, tools, and materials are protected on the jobsite.

DO YOU HAVE READY-TO-SHIP CONTAINERS FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES?

Yes, we have a variety of ready-to-ship containers for commercial purposes, including mobile offices, general storage, and specialty storage. For more information, visit the ready-to-ship page on our website. 

DO YOU HAVE PREDESIGNED FLOOR PLANS?

Yes, we do. To help you get started quickly, we offer a variety of predesigned floor plans that are ready to be ordered. These plans cover a wide range of common commercial and industrial applications, including:

• Mobile offices
• Workforce housing and living spaces
• Bathrooms and locker rooms
• Workshops and storage solutions

Our predesigned plans provide a proven, efficient solution that can significantly reduce the lead time on your project. However, if you have a unique vision, our team can also work with you to modify an existing plan or create a fully custom design from scratch.

CAN THE UNIT BE COMPLETELY SELF-CONTAINED USING SOLAR POWER SO I DON’T HAVE TO HOOK IT UP TO SITE UTILITIES?

We don't offer solar panel systems as a standard part of our customization packages. However, a modified shipping container can absolutely be set up to be self-contained using solar power.

Many of our clients who require off-grid solutions choose to install their own solar power systems after delivery. We can help prepare your container for this by installing a basic electrical package with outlets and lighting, which an electrician can then connect to your chosen solar setup.

While we don't handle the solar installation directly, we can ensure your container is designed with the proper electrical infrastructure to support your self-contained power needs. We recommend working with a licensed electrician to determine your specific power requirements and to install the solar panels, battery bank, and inverter safely.

DO YOU BUILD CUSTOM COMMERCIAL SHIPPING CONTAINER OFFICES?

Yes, we absolutely specialize in building custom commercial shipping container offices. Our team can modify a standard container to your exact specifications, adding features such as electrical packages, HVAC, insulation, windows, and doors. This allows us to create a durable, secure, and highly functional on-site office that is perfectly tailored to your project needs.

HOW MUCH SPACE IS NEEDED FOR THE DELIVERY OF MY SHIPPING CONTAINER?

The majority of our steel containers are delivered on a 40-foot tilt-bed trailer. This means we unload your container by sliding out from underneath it. It’s a good idea to give our drivers about 90-115 feet in front of the delivery site.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS?

Before delivery and connection to power, contact the local jurisdiction to determine if permits are required. Find out if the service amps are compatible with the unit you purchased. Schedule an appointment with a licensed electrician, but first, you need to determine if you will be connecting to a utility service or if you will be connecting to a generator.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR PLUMBING CONNECTIONS?

We recommend hiring a licensed plumber to connect all lines. Before delivery and connecting plumbing, you should contact the local jurisdiction to determine if permits are required. The plumber will need to know if you are connecting to a public water supply or well, the distance the container will be placed from the plumbing service, how much use it will be getting, and if the unit will drain to a sewer line, septic system, tank, or bladder.

CAN I ADD ELECTRICITY TO MY SHIPPING CONTAINER?

We can add a basic electric package, which will include lighting and electrical plugs around the body of your container, or an upgraded package to your shipping container if requested. During the ordering process, discuss which electric package would work best for your needs and the customization of your unit with your sales specialist.

CAN I BURY A SHIPPING CONTAINER TO MAKE A STORM SHELTER OR BUNKER?

The walls, roof, and floor of a shipping container aren’t strong enough to withstand the pressure of being buried. The container is only meant to bear weight on the four corners. If you’re planning on burying a shipping container, you will need to reinforce the structure inside and out.

CAN MY SHIPPING CONTAINER BE USED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES?

Yes! Shipping containers are repurposed for commercial uses, such as pop-up shops, cafes, mobile offices, and event spaces. Their modular nature and unique aesthetic appeal make them a popular choice for creative entrepreneurs.

CAN SHIPPING CONTAINERS BE USED FOR HOUSING?

Absolutely! Shipping containers can be transformed into stylish, innovative ways of living. You can add extra security features, creative interior design, and temperature-controlling units to give the container a homey feel. Shipping containers are an eco-friendly and cost-effective housing solution.

CAN I CONNECT POWER TO A MODIFIED CONTAINER MYSELF?

We strongly recommend that only a licensed electrician connect a modified shipping container to power. Proper grounding is essential to avoid the risk of stray voltage and ensure safety. A professional electrician will ensure your container is connected correctly and safely.

DOES A CONTAINER STRUCTURE PLUG INTO POWER LIKE AN RV?

Our modified shipping containers are designed for semipermanent to permanent use and typically require more power than an RV cord can provide. Unlike RVs, which can plug into power outlets, our containers need a more robust electrical setup to meet their power needs.

CAN A GENERATOR POWER A CONTAINER STRUCTURE?

Yes, a generator can power one of our modified shipping containers. However, the generator must match the container's design and power requirements. If you plan to use a generator, let us know early in the design process. We'll need details about the generator to ensure the container's electrical system is compatible.

DOES XCALIBER CONTAINER SELL GENERATORS?

No, we don’t sell generators with our containers. However, we can guide you on the type of generator you might need based on your container’s power requirements.

HOW CAN I POWER MY CONTAINER IF I PLAN TO RELOCATE IT OFTEN?

Our containers are designed for mobility and can be reconnected to a power source at each new location. Customers who move their containers frequently often use generators or reconnect to the local power grid at the new site.

DO I NEED SPECIAL PERMITS TO POWER MY CONTAINER?

You will likely need a permit or inspection to connect your container to power, depending on your local regulations and power provider. This is another reason to hire a licensed electrician—they will be familiar with the requirements in your area and ensure compliance with all necessary codes.

SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT RUNNING ELECTRICITY TO AN ALL-METAL BUILDING?

No, our containers are modified with modern, safely insulated wiring. Proper grounding is crucial, and any electrical shorts would trip a breaker quickly, ensuring safety. Trust our experienced team to design and install the electrical system correctly.

HOW MUCH POWER DO I NEED TO DRAW TO THE CONTAINER?

The power requirements depend on the specific modifications and intended use of your container. For example, a standard 20-foot climate-controlled storage container or office typically needs less than 4 kilowatts. Additional features, such as water heaters or HVAC systems, will increase the power draw. Our team will provide an electrical design during the planning stage to give you an accurate estimate.

WHAT KIND OF SITE PREP DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE CONNECTING MY CONTAINER TO POWER?

Consult with a licensed electrician to assess your site’s unique challenges before connecting to power. For instance, rocky soil might require special grounding techniques. Proper site preparation ensures a safe and effective electrical setup for your container.

CAN A MODIFIED CONTAINER WORK WITH A NON-DOMESTIC POWER SOURCE?

No, all XCaliber Container structures are designed for American domestic power, which is typically provided by a power company. Our containers aren’t configured for non-domestic power sources.

WHAT KIND OF POWER-USING MODIFICATIONS CAN I ADD TO MY CONTAINER?

Our containers can be equipped with various electrical modifications similar to traditional buildings. Options include packaged thermal air conditioner or HVAC units, extra outlets, indoor and outdoor lighting, ventilation fans, kitchenettes with ovens and microwaves, and more. Visit our website or speak with our team to explore specific modification options.

HOW DOES XCALIBER CONTAINER’S ORDERING PROCESS WORK?

Here’s a summary of our ordering process:

• Initial estimate and work order: The process begins with your sales specialist providing you with a detailed estimate. If you're requesting a custom build or modifications, they will create a work order for you to review and approve to ensure all features and specifications are correct.
• Deposit and production: Once you and your sales specialist approve the work order, a deposit of 50 percent of the invoice total is required. This payment authorizes us to begin production on your unit, which can take anywhere from 4-16 weeks, depending on the complexity of your custom build.
• Final approval and payment: After production is complete, we will send you photos of the finished container for your final approval. The remaining balance of your invoice is due before the container is scheduled for delivery.
• Delivery scheduling: Once the final payment and photo approval are complete, our logistics team will contact you within 72 hours to coordinate a delivery date. We will work with you to ensure a smooth and timely delivery to your jobsite.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO FULFILL MY ORDER?

The total time to fulfill your order depends on the type of container you need. For a custom build or a container with modifications, the production time can range from 4-16 weeks. During this time, you'll be able to get updates on the progress of your unit from your sales specialist.

Once your custom container is completed and you have approved the final photos, the logistics team will contact you within 72 hours to schedule delivery, which typically takes place within 7-10 business days.

HOW LONG WILL PRODUCTION TAKE?

Depending on the type of custom build or modifications you have requested, the production time can range from 4-16 weeks. During this time, you’re welcome to call your sales specialist to get updates on the progress of your container.

DO YOU HAVE DISCOUNTS FOR VOLUME ORDERS?

Yes, we provide discounts for repeat customers and first-time customers who order in volume. Reach out to our sales team to discuss your quote.

CAN I HAVE A 3D RENDERING OF MY CONTAINER?

Our innovative 3D modeling feature for customers allows you to virtually tour, design, and customize your container solution. You can visualize and modify various options, including custom paint, interior finishes, furniture, security features, and more. This feature helps you fully envision your container before committing to an order.

WHAT IF I NEED REPAIRS TO MY CONTAINER?

XCaliber offers a one-year warranty on all modified containers. Reach out to your representative to schedule on-site repair work.

WHAT ARE XCALIBER’S STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS?

Please visit this page for our terms and conditions. 

DO YOU DELIVER SHIPPING CONTAINERS?

Yes, we deliver shipping containers nationwide, with a strong presence in our home states of Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. We use professional trucks with tilt-bed trailers to ensure your container is placed smoothly on-site.

To prepare for delivery, you just need to ensure the site is level and the path is clear of obstructions. We require about 115 feet of straight clearance for a 40-foot container to be unloaded safely. During the ordering process, you can specify the exact orientation you want the doors to face, ensuring a perfect setup on your jobsite.

HOW FAST CAN YOU DELIVER A CONTAINER TO MY JOBSITE?

For standard containers and those with basic modifications, we offer our XCaliber Container XPRESS option, which has a production time of just 72 hours. Once the unit is complete, delivery is typically scheduled within 7-10 business days. This is our fastest option for getting a container to your jobsite.

For more complex custom builds, the production timeline is longer, ranging from 4-16 weeks, depending on the modifications and the project's scope. After final approval, our logistics team will contact you within 72 hours to schedule delivery within 7-10 business days.

WHAT KIND OF SITE PREPARATION IS REQUIRED BEFORE DELIVERY?

For a seamless delivery, a little site preparation goes a long way. Here is a simple checklist to ensure your container arrives and is placed exactly where you need it:

• Check the path and space. Our delivery truck with its tilt-bed trailer needs plenty of room to maneuver. For a standard 40-foot container, we require about 115 feet of straight clearance to unload properly. Make sure the access route and the drop-off location are wide enough and free of parked cars, fences, or other obstructions.
• Look for overhead obstacles. The truck and trailer can be quite tall, especially when the bed is tilted for unloading. Be sure the delivery path and placement area are clear of low-hanging tree branches, power lines, or anything else that could get in the way.
• Ensure a firm, level surface. The container should be placed on a flat, solid surface to prevent it from settling unevenly over time. This is crucial for keeping the doors properly aligned and easy to open. While a concrete or gravel pad is ideal, we can also use wooden blocks to level the container on a firm dirt or grassy surface.

HOW DOES THE DELIVERY PROCESS WORK?

Delivery of your container is handled by our professional logistics team using a truck and tilt-bed trailer. Once your order is complete, we will schedule a delivery date with you.

The process is straightforward: The tilt-bed trailer raises, and the container slides off the back and onto the ground. During the ordering process, we'll confirm your preferred door orientation to ensure the container is placed exactly as you need it on your jobsite. A little site prep, such as ensuring a level surface, will ensure a smooth delivery.

CAN A CONTAINER BE MOVED FROM ITS ORIGINAL DELIVERY LOCATION TO A NEW JOBSITE?

Yes, a purchased container can be moved from its original delivery location to a new jobsite. Their design for easy transport is one of their major advantages over traditional structures.

DO YOU OFFER FINANCING OPTIONS FOR PURCHASING A CONTAINER?

Yes, we offer financing through our partnership with First Financial Bank based on your credit history. We also have a rent-to-own option through Clicklease.

WHAT DOES THE PURCHASE PRICE INCLUDE?

Our purchase price includes everything, including container, delivery, and warranty. For more information, contact a member of our sales team. 

ONCE I SELECT THE SHIPPING CONTAINER I WANT TO PURCHASE, HOW DO I PLACE THE ORDER?

If you’re shopping online, you can add the shipping container to your shopping cart and check out, or you can give us a call at 940-374-4964 to speak with a sales specialist. If you have selected a shipping container out of one of our show yards, you can call 940-374-4964 to check the availability of that unit with one of our sales specialists.

WHAT IF I'M TAX-EXEMPT?

If you hold an applicable tax-exempt status, please download and fill out the following form and email it to Info@XCaliberContainer.com or fax it to 940-228-0023.

Texas Sales and Use Tax Resale Certificate

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I APPROVE MY WORK ORDER?

Once the work order is approved, your sales specialist will submit all order documents to the inside operations manager to review and ensure there are no discrepancies.

ONCE ALL ORDER DOCUMENTS ARE APPROVED, WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

After approval of all order documents from both you and your sales specialist, you will be required to pay a deposit, which will be 50 percent of the invoice total amount. The remaining balance will be due before delivery. After the deposit is paid, your sales specialist will submit your work order for production.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I WANT TO CHANGE MY WORK ORDER AFTER PRODUCTION BEGINS?

If you want to change the work order after it has been submitted for production, you will need to contact your sales specialist to let them know of the desired change. If production isn’t far along and the change(s) can be made, your sales specialist will pull and amend the work order. Once the work order is amended, it will be sent back to you for approval, and the previous steps will be repeated. Production on your unit won’t resume until you approve the amended work order. Making a change to your unit once it is already in production can result in a time delay.

AFTER I APPROVE THE PICTURES OF MY COMPLETED SHIPPING CONTAINER, WHEN CAN I EXPECT DELIVERY?

After you approve the pictures of your shipping container, the operations team will submit your order to the logistics team to schedule delivery. You can expect a call from the logistics team within 72 hours to coordinate a date for delivery, which is typically within 7-10 business days.

HOW WILL MY SHIPPING CONTAINER BE DELIVERED?

Our portable shipping containers are delivered to your requested location with a truck and tilt-bed trailer. During the ordering process, you should consider how you want your container loaded on the trailer so that it will be placed correctly in your desired location when it’s unloaded. The shipping container can either be loaded on the trailer with the cargo doors facing the cab of the delivery truck or with the cargo doors facing the back of the trailer. If it’s loaded with the cargo doors facing the cab, the cargo doors will come off the trailer last. If it’s loaded with the cargo doors facing the back of the trailer, the cargo doors will come off the trailer first.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO GET MY LOCATION READY FOR DELIVERY?

Most customers prepare a gravel bed or a concrete platform. While this isn't required, it helps keep the container level and the ground around it well-drained. It's essential to keep the storage container level. Otherwise, the doors can be challenging to open.

DOES MY CONTAINER COME WITH A WARRANTY?

• Wind- and watertight containers: No warranty; guaranteed not to have visible holes upon delivery.
• Basic and premium refurbished: 1-year warranty against leaks (not dripping condensation)
• Custom containers: 90-day warranty against workmanship defects
• Office/cabin/advanced custom work: 
• 1-year warranty against leaks from steel roof/steel walls (not plumbing)
• 90-day warranty against workmanship defects 
• 30-day warranty on appliances, heater/AC units, and other items with manufacturer warranty (After 30 days, contact the manufacturer for repairs.)
• Freeze Damage: No warranty

WHAT IS THE BEST LOCK FOR A SHIPPING CONTAINER?

When selecting the best lock for your container's security, we recommend a high-security padlock designed to fit a lockbox. Look for locks made from anti-rust SUS304 stainless steel because this material is highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor use.

For ultimate security, choose a padlock with an anti-pry, double-ball locking system and a freely rotating stainless steel shackle. This design is built to resist more than 4 tons of pulling force and prevent attacks by cutting or sawing. The lock should also have a weatherproof disc cylinder for added security. For convenience, many of these locks are available in "keyed alike" sets, so a single key can open all the padlocks on your container.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I LUBRICATE CONTAINER DOORS?

For smooth and easy operation, you should lubricate your container's hinges and locking rods whenever you notice the doors becoming stiff or difficult to open. There is no set schedule; the frequency depends on how often the doors are used and the container's age.

DO SHIPPING CONTAINERS NEED MAINTENANCE?

Most shipping containers don’t need regular maintenance. However, you can do a few things to improve the shipping container's quality of life. Most container doors have grease inserts that wear out over time. Replacing these inserts and seals can make old doors much easier to open.

HOW DO I KEEP MY PLUMBING FROM FREEZING IN EXTREME TEMPERATURES?

Before temperatures drop below freezing, open and drain the lines or keep a drip to prevent pipes from bursting.

HOW DO I PREVENT MY SHIPPING CONTAINER FROM DEVELOPING MUSTY ODORS?

Make sure to replace AC/heating filters or make sure the container is ventilated properly.