8 x 20 mobile office trailers are considered single-wide units, and are one of the most commonly used types. This size mobile office trailer has a compact width (8 feet) and space-efficiency (160 sq. feet). This makes them great choices for businesses that want to benefit from saving space and money, and enjoying portability. Most 8’ x 20’ mobile offices will allow enough room for one private office and a small shared space. Alternatively, you can have one open area with 1-3 personal office spaces or storage space.

Uses

8 x 20 mobile office trailers are convenient options for mobile, on-the-go businesses. They tend to accommodate construction companies, engineers, road crews, or other groups that need to “set up shop” temporarily to fulfill a job. Because it falls at just under 200 sq. feet, you can expect them to accommodate 1-3 people comfortably at a time. 

Regardless of its smaller space, keep in mind that many 8’ x 20’ mobile offices can accommodate add-on features like HVAC, electricity and lighting, shelving and cabinets, windows, and a variety of other interior and exterior finishings. Even if your business is not on-the-go and you want a place you can “set up shop” semi-permanently (ie. you’re spending most workdays inside the space), there are definitely ways you can make the space fit your needs on a budget, and suppliers are happy to help if you have questions about whether or not it will be sufficient space!

Size and Dimensions

As mentioned, an 8’ x 20’ mobile office trailer will be 8 feet wide, 20 feet long, and may sometimes include a hitch that may add around 4 feet to the length on the exterior. You also want to consider that many have a front door that swings open and may add some space to the width. So, it would be a safe bet to plan your site for a unit that requires around 24’ long and 12’ wide. 

Also keep in mind that a majority of mobile offices are not at ground level, since they sit on a wheel-and-chassis base for easy portability. This means you will need stairs or a ramp to enter. However, some suppliers offer “ground-level” offices (many are converted storage containers), so it doesn’t hurt to ask your supplier when receiving a quote.

Features

Even though the space they offer is relatively small, what’s great about 8 x 20 mobile offices is that they offer a variety of add-on features! These days, you can just about equip your mobile office with any amenity you can think would be in a “standard” office space. The “included” features will vary by supplier, but there are features you can add for an additional price, as well, so that you can customize your office and make it as comfortable as possible!

Here are some of the great features you can choose from:

• Running Water
• Electricity (usually standard)
• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Heating, Air Conditioning, and Ventilation
• Security Bars on Windows
• Exterior finishing options
• Wheelchair-accessible entry ramps
• Metal Steps
• Ball hitch locks
• Built-in desks
• Filing cabinets and shelves
• Skirting
• Blinds

Cost

The cost of a 8 x 20 mobile office trailer will vary depending on… 

• Whether you’re renting or buying
• The age and condition of the unit
• Which add-on features you want to include
• Your location and distance from the supplier (this impact delivery rates)
• Which season you’re starting your rental or making your purchase

In general, if you’re choosing to rent your 8 x 20 trailer, your monthly payment can be anywhere between $100-250 a month. This would cover a mildly used unit with standard features, but can go as high as $500 monthly if you choose to add many high-end features. For example, adding a bathroom can cost an additional $200- $400. Additionally, that monthly rental rate may go up if office trailers are in high demand or it’s busy season. Usually, rates are higher in the Spring and Summer. Make sure you ask your supplier about the factors (condition, age, season, etc.) that are contributing to that monthly premium.

To purchase, new mobile office trailers usually start at about $15,000. But you should be able to bring down that price if you want to purchase a used or refurbished unit. Generally, the more features you want to add, the higher your “out-the-door” price will be. 

If you’re torn between renting and buy, you can take a look at our in-depth renter’s guide. In terms of the cost analysis, consider your yearly payments for the rental, including delivery and removal fees. It’s typical that businesses consider purchasing when they anticipate needing the office for more than 3 years, at which point you’ll nearly “break even” on the investment. However, in the end, it will depend on your specific annual investment and how long you need the office for.

By the way - always budget around $1,000 - $1,500 for delivery and installation, and about $300-$1,000 for removal. However, you can check with your supplier to get those exact rates before the unit is delivered.