Pricing and Costs of Prefabricated Buildings

Get the right prefab building at the right price

By Kathryn Keep
Today's commercial prefabricated structures are economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Compared with traditional construction, prefabricated buildings cost less because a factory does up to 90% of the building before it ever reaches your site. Time is money, so getting your building up and running quickly is of utmost importance.

Pricing and costs of prefabricated buildings vary considerably based on size, materials, and features. It's free and just makes sense to get several quotes. Of course, the building itself isn't your only expense. Delivery costs can range from a very small amount such as $1.50 per mile to several hundred dollars. Costs of planning, construction, assembly, and connection to utilities must also be part of your budget.

Know what you need before getting quotes. There are many options in shape, size, and configuration in prefabricated structures, but these three are the most common choices:

1. Prefabricated steel buildings - your best bet when you need to enclose a large space

2. Modular buildings - for flexibility and more traditional appearance

3. Mobile offices - when you need a simple small space

 

Buy prefabricated steel buildings

As a general figure, a pre-built steel building will cost anywhere from $16-$40 a square foot, with most popular options being somewhere in the middle.
Try: For a durable steel prefabricated structure, have top companies, such as Olympia Steel Buildings and Empire Steel Buildings, contact you with a quote.

Buy a modular prefab building

A modular prefabricated building usually costs $35 to $100 per square foot, depending upon the level of customization. Modular buildings allow for the most customization and flexibility.
Try: You can choose either a manufacturer that sells directly, such as American Partitions, or locate a dealer using BuyerZone's Modular Building Price Quotes. Either way, look for someone who has a good track record, and don't be afraid to ask for references.

Rent or buy smaller prefab buildings

While not a permanent solution, you can rent a small mobile office for $100 to $500 a month. Renting can be more favorable tax-wise as it is an operating expense rather than capital, but if you need your building for more than three years, buying a new or used one might be your best bet.
Try: Pac-Van has many locations, which can make renting or looking at a used building easier. 360 Mobile Office offers customized quotes based on your needs, whether they are long term or short term.

 

  • Cut costs by pre-cooling your building. While it seems intuitive that shutting off the air conditioning in your prefab structures when everyone goes home at night saves energy, that isn't necessarily true. A study by Purdue University proved that commercial buildings have more potential in storing thermal energy and overnight cooling can result in less need for cooling during the day ultimately meaning lower electricity bills.

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Trusted Vendors

Nucor Building Systems

Earn maximum LEED points with NBS. Our buildings are made of 89%+ recycled content, including recyclable scrap steel, and exceed the LEED SRI requirement of 78. Call now.

Visit nucorbuildingsystems.com

US Metal Buildings Pre-fab Goods

US Buildings makes easy-to-assemble pre-fab buildings to store and protect your industrial equpment. Designed for strength and durability that exceed expectations.

Visit Us-Buildings-Direct.com