When it comes to adding extra storage space to your property, two popular options often come to mind: portable storage buildings and pole barns. Both have unique advantages, and the best choice for your needs depends on a few key factors like cost, durability, ease of installation and how you plan to use the space.
At Bestway Portable Buildings Inc., we’ve helped countless homeowners, agricultural property owners and business owners find the right storage solution, and we know the decision isn’t always easy.
What Is a Portable Building?
A portable building is a prefabricated structure built off-site and delivered ready to use. These customizable structures come in a variety of sizes and layouts, and they’re designed to be moved if needed.
Common uses include:
- Storage sheds
- Workshops
- Tiny homes
- Home offices
- Garden or tool sheds
We can customize the size and layout of portable buildings and property owners can hire contractors to do additional customization like electrical wiring or plumbing. They can even have finished interiors, making them highly versatile.
What Is a Pole Barn?
A pole barn (also known as a post-frame building) is a structure built on-site using large poles or posts buried and anchored in the ground. The posts support the roof and structure, making it easy to construct wide, open spaces without interior load-bearing walls.
Pole barns are commonly used for:
- Agricultural storage (equipment, feed, hay)
- Garages or workshops
- Barns for livestock
- Large-scale commercial storage
Because they’re constructed on-site, pole barns allow for more customization of layout and size, but they require more labor and planning.
Key Comparison: Portable Building vs. Pole Barn
1. Cost
- Portable Buildings: More affordable upfront, especially for smaller structures. Costs are easier to predict because they’re prefabricated.
- Pole Barns: Can be more cost-effective per square foot for large open spaces, but site preparation, materials and labor can add up quickly.
2. Installation Time
- Portable Buildings: Delivered ready to use. No construction time needed beyond delivery, foundation prep and proper anchoring.
- Pole Barns: Requires on-site construction, which can take days depending on size, weather, and contractor availability.
3. Durability and Longevity
- Portable Buildings: Built in a controlled environment with high-quality materials. Durable, especially when properly maintained.
- Pole Barns: Also very durable. Their design is especially suited for large open interiors and heavy-duty use.
4. Flexibility and Mobility
- Portable Buildings: As the name implies, they can be relocated if needed. This is ideal for renters, temporary storage or future property changes.
- Pole Barns: Somewhat more permanent structures. Once built, they can’t be easily moved without major demolition.
5. Customization
- Portable Buildings: After installation, homeowners can modify them to include electrical, insulation, shelving, interior walls and even HVAC. Some limits on maximum size.
- Pole Barns: Highly customizable in size and layout, making them great for large-scale needs or farm operations.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose a Portable Building if:
- You want fast delivery and setup
- You need a cost-effective solution for personal storage
- You might move or relocate the structure in the future
- You have defined storage or use needs and don’t require a massive open space
- You want modify the structure into an office, hobby room or workshop
Choose a Pole Barn if:
- You need a large open layout for farm equipment, animals or bulk storage
- You’re building on a permanent site with plans for long-term use
- You’re not concerned with relocation or fast setup
Let Our Panama City Team Help You Decide on a Portable Building or Pole Barn
Need more space but not sure where to start? Our Panama City, FL team is happy to walk you through the pros and cons of each option based on your location, property and long-term plans.
Contact us on our website or give us a call at (850) 747-8974 to learn more about our wide selection of portable buildings and pole barn options. With high-quality craftsmanship, fast turnaround and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re here to help you build smarter, no matter your storage needs.
