Understanding all of the costs to rent or buy a portable classroom is key to preparing a smart budget and completing your project successfully.
In today’s market, a typical 24′ x 40′ Portable Classroom that has enough space for twenty students and a teacher can cost $900 to $1,800 or more per month to rent, and anywhere from $75,000.00 (used) to $120,000.00 or more (new) to purchase. A larger 24′ x 60′ model will cost from $1,600.00 to $2,600.00 per month to rent and $120,000.00 (used) – $175,000.00 (new) to purchase. But many conditions can increase or decrease your costs, so read on and learn more about the factors that can save your school or church thousands of dollars when you rent or buy a portable classroom in the United States.
| Pricing Tip: If you want to get today’s pricing for any type of Portable Classroom use the iModular.com Current Pricing Page. Go now>> |
Two Questions and a Suggestion
1. Are you open to renting a used portable classroom? If so, you can rest assured that suppliers have used portable classrooms in stock that are in very good condition – and the prices will be lower than using a new model that has to be manufactured. Ask about in-stock used classrooms that are available for the lowest price, and always have a look at the classroom before you buy or rent. Here is a helpful modular classroom Planning Guide with a checklist to use during your search.
2. Are you open to purchasing the portable in place of a long-term rental? Purchasing a used portable classroom can sometimes be very affordable compared to renting a new model. Purchasing makes the best sense when you know it will be needed for several years. Remember, buying a portable classroom is a real estate-style purchase. If you pay rent for too long – you could have easily purchased the portable classroom for far less.
3. If you prefer a new portable classroom trailer, get at least three price quotes from suppliers in your area. Try to find a manufacturer that will sell direct…in some cases. This is the best way to save thousands of dollars. Otherwise, shop smart and make sensible decisions when it comes to the exterior and interior finishes and amenities, and always think about the future resale of the modular school building when and if you outgrow the floor plan or decide to build a permanent structure.
Don’t Forget Delivery, Installation, and Handicap Ramp Costs
When budgeting for the delivery and installation of a portable classroom, it’s crucial to consider the specific requirements of your site. If your project takes place on a school or church site that is easily accessible and equipped with nearby utilities, you can expect the costs to remain reasonable and manageable. Suppliers typically conduct thorough site visits to assess the logistical aspects and provide cost-effective transportation and installation solutions tailored to your needs. This personalized approach ensures that you receive accurate estimates and practical recommendations, allowing you to make well-informed decisions that align with your budgetary constraints while ensuring a seamless delivery and installation process.
To calculate the “estimated” delivery and installation charges of standard-sized Portable Classrooms being delivered and installed on a level and easily accessible site using a state-approved foundation system with perimeter skirting, I suggest using a minimum of $25,000.00 for a 24′ x 40′ Portable and $35,000.00 for a 24′ x 60′ model.
However, for more complex projects involving challenging site conditions or remote locations, it’s essential to factor in potential additional expenses and engage in detailed planning to ensure a successful outcome. Proper budgeting and a clear understanding of the unique demands of your site will ultimately contribute to a smoother and more cost-effective installation of the portable classroom.
Finally, every portable classroom installed requires handicap access according to the Americans With Disabilities Act Accessibility Standards. Handicap access ramps with landings and stairs are typically fabricated using steel, aluminum, or wood. The costs depend on the site conditions, the length of the ramp required to meet the code, and the installation.
Calculating the cost of buying or renting a ramp is difficult without knowing the finished floor height of the Portable Classroom. To estimate this item I would start at $16,000.00 and expect that the cost could double if you want a top-of-the-line system with special materials, switchbacks, and awnings. Read the wheelchair ramp design features you should be considering for more details to consider.
I used iModular.com for our private school project and ended up getting a really good deal on some used modular classrooms. Going to use it again soon.
Modulars can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars per month to rent to a few thousand depending on what your needs are and where the modular building will be located. To purchase a modular expect to pay $15,000 at least for a used unit.
I suggest using http://www.imodular.com…..this site connects you with the most qualified suppliers in your area and helps you get the best price for a modular building.
If you need to have a new modular built be sure to review the specifications very closely before signing a contract. Also…keep all of the documents in case you will eventually want to sell the modular at some point.
Ask about handicap ramps, installation costs and license fees. Cover the bases and you will be fine.
We just rented a 36'x 60' modular daycare center and are paying $1,500 per month. We got three prices but didn't choose the lowest. We actually like the floor plan of the more expensive used model. Try iModular.com…that site was the biggest help.
One other good point brought to my attention recently is that you can save money by renting or buying a used aluminum or steel handicap ramp and/or OSHA approved aluminum steps for your modular classroom trailer. Most suppliers of modular buildings have used steps and ramps that meet ADA and OSHA standards in stock so finding them is not a problem. Use iModularbuildings.com if you want to get a few prices from locals companies.
I received this question this week: Is it better to pay for floor plan changes up front or amortize them into the rental rate for a modular classroom in Florida?
Answer: Always pay for modifications up front unless the money is not available to do so. Why? Simple interest is tacked on to the monthly rate so you pay way more to add walls, doors and other features to your modular building or classroom.
Also on the handicap ramps for modular buildings – be sure to get the exact measurement of the main entrance threshold…that's basically how many feet of ramp you will need unless the site is not level.
Good advice Bruce. I have brokered modulars without the original paperwork and it becomes a problem at some point.
Paul…I agree. It is always a good idea to have a used modular building checked out by a contractor and an experienced HVAC person as well. Check for any major problems and budget to repair those. Used modular classrooms typically suffer from heavy use and the AC units most likely have not been maintained properly. Used modular office trailers are usually in decent shape if they have been looked after properly.
Also, don't forget to look at the original paperwork – bill of sale, license, etc.
Buying a used portable classroom is a really good option when compared to the price of a new one. Just check the ac units, floor and roof. If those are in good shape everything else should be easy to remodel, clean, whatever.
P. Morrow, Facility Manager
Here are some questions to ask if you are buying or renting a modular:
When you speak with suppliers be sure to request their best price for the following items:
1. Rental price per month plus any tax or license fee.
2. The price to deliver and install the modular building.
3. The price to knock it down and return delivery.
4. The cost to rent a set of steps or a handicap ramp for access if required.
*Remember to ask about hidden fees such as cleaning, insurance and maintenance.