Temporary Kitchen Hire Cost: What Affects Pricing & How to Save

When you’re planning a kitchen refurbishment or an emergency replacement, one of the first questions that comes up is: how much does temporary kitchen hire cost?

The answer depends on a few key factors, from the type of kitchen you need to how long you’ll be hiring it for. Whether you’re a school, hospital, care home, or catering company, understanding these pricing factors will help you budget smartly and avoid surprise costs.

Let’s break down what really affects temporary kitchen hire cost, and how to get the most value from your setup.

What Is Temporary Kitchen Hire?

Before we dive into cost, it’s worth clarifying what temporary kitchen hire actually includes.

When you rent a kitchen, you’re getting a fully equipped, compliant, and portable catering facility that can be installed on your site. These modular units can be configured to match your needs, whether that’s a small prep kitchen or a full catering complex complete with dishwashing and cold storage areas.

Every temporary kitchen hire from Mobile Kitchens Ltd meets UK hygiene regulations (E.H.O. standards) and includes professional-grade equipment, installation, and support. You can hire for as little as a month or for long-term projects that last several months or even years.

What Affects Temporary Kitchen Hire Cost?

There’s no one-size-fits-all price. The total kitchen hire cost depends on your project scope and site setup. But here are the key factors that make the biggest difference:

1. Type and Size of Kitchen Units

Do you need a single kitchen pod or a full-scale commercial kitchen hire setup?

Larger or more complex configurations (like modular kitchens with prep, cooking, and wash-up areas) naturally cost more due to additional equipment and space requirements.

2. Duration of Hire

Long-term hire typically reduces your monthly cost. Most providers, including us, offer better rates for extended contracts. For example, a three-month hire will often cost less per week than a short two-week setup.

3. Equipment Specification

If your kitchen needs specialist equipment (such as large combi ovens, blast chillers, or custom extraction) that will affect your hire package cost. We always provide transparent quotes that outline equipment inclusions upfront.

4. Site Preparation & Delivery

Access is key. If your site requires trackway, ground levelling, or additional lifting equipment, this can impact your temporary kitchen hire cost.

Good news though, our team handles all of this during your free site survey so there are no surprises later.

5. Additional Services

Some clients prefer a turnkey service that includes power setup, plumbing, maintenance, and equipment cleaning. These optional extras slightly increase cost but save time, hassle, and coordination.

How to Save on Temporary Kitchen Hire

If you’re looking to reduce your kitchen hire costs, here are a few proven ways to do it smartly without compromising quality or compliance.

1. Plan Ahead

Early planning lets you book availability in advance, lock in better rates, and reduce last-minute delivery fees. We always recommend starting your quote process at least 6–8 weeks before your refurbishment begins.

2. Opt for Long-Term Hire

If your project might extend beyond a month, go for a long-term hire contract. The weekly rate will usually drop significantly the longer you hire.

3. Use Existing Equipment

If you already own working appliances, we can design your setup around them, reducing your total hire package cost.

4. Combine Units Efficiently

Instead of hiring multiple standalone kitchens, consider linking modular units together. It’s more efficient, saves delivery costs, and improves workflow.

5. Choose Transparent Providers

Some companies advertise low headline prices but hide delivery or installation charges in the small print. With MKL our temporary kitchen hire cost quotes are fully transparent — no hidden extras, no surprises.

How to Get a Quote

The fastest way to find out your temporary kitchen hire cost is to request a quote based on your site and catering needs.

Our team provides a free initial site survey, full layout plan, and quote breakdown, so you’ll know exactly what’s included before installation begins.

You can call MKL on 0345 812 0800 or email us on info@mk-hire.co.uk for a fast and fair quote. 

FAQ’s About Temporary Kitchen Hire Cost

What affects temporary kitchen hire cost?

Factors include unit size, hire length, site setup, and equipment requirements.

Do you offer long-term hire discounts?

Yes, we provide flexible contracts with lower rates for extended hire periods.

What’s included in the hire price?

All essential catering equipment, delivery, installation, and maintenance support are included as standard.