Understanding How Mobile Offices Are Wired to Work

Mobile offices come pre-equipped with internal electrical systems but do not generate their own power. To operate, they must be connected to an external power source.

Standard electrical features typically include:

Wiring: Pre-installed electrical wiring throughout the unit

Lighting: Built-in fixtures with energy-efficient bulbs

Outlets: Multiple outlets for office equipment

Power Plug: 50-amp power plug available upon request

Breaker Panel: 125-amp panel with circuit breakers for power management

HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems may be included and pre-wired, but also require external power

Requirements for set-up

BREAKER PANEL DIRECT HOOK UP

  • 125 amp outdoor breaker panel
  • 240 volts required
  • 15kw generator or larger is recommended

PLUG CONNECTION HOOK UP

  • 50 amp plug is required on both the container (included) and on generator
  • 240 volts required
  • 15kw generator or larger is recommended
Rent office Container

Mobile Office Power & Delivery FAQs: Setup, Connection, and Preparation Tips

How to Connect Power to Your Mobile Office: Generator vs. Temporary Power Pole

This section will help you understand the two primary ways to power your mobile office — using a generator or a temporary power pole — and guide you in choosing the right setup for your needs.

To power your mobile office, you have two main options:

 

Option 1: Generator

Best for: Remote or temporary sites without access to utility power

Requirements:

  • 15 kW generator (or larger)
  • 240-volt output
  • 50-amp plug or direct connection to breaker panel

Option 2: Temporary Power Pole

Best for: Long-term projects with access to utility power

Requirements:

  • Utility installation and inspection
  • 240-volt output
  • Plug-in or direct hookup

Tip: Use a generator for short-term or remote use. Choose a power pole for long-term, stable projects.

 

How to Install a Breaker Panel

This section will show you how to safely access your mobile office’s breaker panel so you can prepare it for wiring.

  1. Locate the electrical panel on the outside of the container.
  2. Remove the two screws securing the dead front cover.
  3. Use a screwdriver to gently pry off the dead front via the small notch at the bottom.
  4. The internal wire terminals will now be accessible.

How to Install Cables and Accompanying Connections: Breaker vs. Plug

This section will guide you through properly connecting power cables — whether you’re using a hardwired breaker panel or a plug-based system.

Step 1: Identify the four wires from your generator or power pole:

  • Black & Red: Hot wires (incoming power)

  • White: Neutral (return path)

  • Green: Ground

Step 2: Connect the wires in this order:

  • Black → Left lug

  • White (neutral) → Top right lug

  • Red → Far-right lug

  • Green (ground) → Bottom left lug (insert from the right)

Warning: Do not connect either hot wire to the neutral lug — this can damage appliances.

After each connection, tighten the screws to ensure secure contact.

How to Replace the Dead Front and Close the Panel Box

This section will show you how to safely access your mobile office’s breaker panel so you can prepare it for wiring.

  1. Double-check all connections are in the correct terminals and tightened.

     

  2. Reattach the dead front panel by aligning it and pressing into place.

     

  3. Secure it with the two original screws.

     

  4. Turn on your power source and verify functionality by testing lights, outlets, and HVAC.

How to Install with Power Plug Installation

This section will explain the simplest method of connecting power to your mobile office using a 50-amp plug.

  1. Use a power cord with 50-amp plugs on both ends.

  2. Connect one end to your generator or temporary power pole.

  3. Plug the other end into the power inlet on your mobile office container.

Tip: This is the easiest and fastest method if both the generator and office container support plug connections.

Get a Free Quote

Ready to rent a container with us? Request a quote today and our team will reach out to talk through your requirements, including container type, delivery details, and timeline. We’re eager to serve you.