The Difference Between Portable, Modular and Jackleg Cabins
27 August 2025

When it comes to finding the right building solution for your business, you’ll likely encounter various options, each offering distinct benefits. Understanding the differences between portable, modular, and jackleg cabins can be key to choosing the ideal space that fits your needs. Whether you're seeking a temporary office, a multi-functional space, or a building that can grow with your business, these options provide flexible and cost-effective alternatives to traditional construction.


This guide will break down the unique features of each type of building, helping you understand which is the best option for you.



What Are Portable Buildings?


Portable buildings are self-contained structures designed to be easily moved and relocated. They are built off-site and arrive at your location ready to use, saving you time and reducing on-site disruption. These portable buildings are made to meet your specific requirements, ensuring they provide the ideal space for your business from day one.


A great feature of portable cabins is their flexibility. While they are built to be sturdy and secure, they can also be altered or expanded in the future. This makes them an excellent option if you anticipate the need for growth in the future but don’t want to commit to a permanent building right away.


What Are Modular Buildings?


Modular buildings differ from portable buildings in that they arrive in separate pre-built units that are assembled on-site. This means that while the initial build time is slightly longer compared to portable cabins, it still takes a fraction of the time compared to traditional construction.


Modular buildings are perfect for a wide range of applications, from education to healthcare. At Relocatable Building Systems, we can customisable our modular buildings to meet your specifications. Whether you need a temporary office, extra classroom space, or a medical facility, our modular buildings can be designed from a range of configurations and finishes to create a space that matches your aesthetic and functional requirements.


What Are Jackleg Cabins?


Jackleg cabins are a type of portable cabin equipped with adjustable metal legs that allow them to be placed on uneven surfaces or stacked to create multi-storey units. This makes them highly versatile and ideal for locations where foundations may not be level.


Constructed off-site, jackleg cabins arrive ready for immediate use, minimising the time spent on site and reducing disruption. Their unique leg system gives businesses the flexibility to expand or relocate as needed.


Jackleg cabins offer the same adaptability as modular buildings, enabling businesses to expand as required. Whether you need additional office space or a multi-level structure, jackleg cabins offer a flexible and cost-effective solution that can be adjusted as your business grows.


Relocatable Building Systems Ltd


At Relocatable Building Systems, we specialise in delivering high-quality modular, portable, and jackleg cabins tailored to your needs. Whether you require a small office, a multi-storey complex, or anything in between, our expert team can help you find the perfect solution.


Contact us today to discuss your requirements and discover how we can support your business’s growth with our flexible, cost-effective building solutions.

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