EN 13782 vs. EN 1991: Which standard applies to temporary warehouse structures?
When a company needs extra space at short notice — for storage, logistics or production — a modular or temporary hall often seems like the most efficient option.
But when safety and compliance come into play, one question quickly follows:
Which standard applies — EN 13782 or EN 1991?
At first glance, they might seem contradictory. In reality, they serve different purposes and apply to different types of structures.
This article explains the difference and helps operations and facility professionals make informed decisions — with safety and flexibility in mind.
What is EN 13782?
EN 13782 is a European product and safety standard for temporary structures such as industrial tents and modular halls. It sets clear requirements for:
- structural stability under wind and snow load
- anchoring and material selection
- assembly and usage conditions
- definition of responsibilities between supplier and user
The standard is designed for structures that are used temporarily or semi-permanently, and that can be dismantled and relocated if needed.
At Losberger De Boer, our temporary warehouse and production halls are fully compliant with EN 13782.
What is EN 1991?
EN 1991, part of Eurocode 1, defines how to calculate loads for permanent buildings. This includes:
- dead loads and live loads
- snow loads (EN 1991-1-3)
- wind loads (EN 1991-1-4)
- thermal actions and other environmental factors
EN 1991 is a design code. It provides structural engineers with detailed load assumptions based on a building's shape, height, location, terrain exposure, and expected lifetime (typically several decades).
It does not cover:
- assembly or disassembly
- usage conditions
- mobility or modularity
In short: it’s intended for conventional buildings with foundations and permanent fixtures.
EN 13782 vs. EN 1991 – at a glance
|
Aspect |
EN 13782 |
EN 1991 (Eurocode 1) |
|
Structure type |
Temporary/modular halls |
Permanent buildings |
|
Norm type |
Product & usage standard |
Structural load calculation |
|
Usage duration |
Short to medium term |
Long term (20+ years) |
|
Includes disassembly |
Yes |
No |
|
Load approach |
Specific to use and location |
Conservative/generalised |
|
Compliance pathway |
Quick, scenario-based |
Part of full building permit |
Why wind and snow load matter — in every region
For temporary structures, environmental loads are critical. EN 13782 ensures each structure is designed for its actual location, use case and climate exposure.
What this means in practice:
- wind and snow thresholds are predefined
- suppliers provide clear documentation
- users know when the hall can be used safely
- in extreme conditions (e.g. storms, snow accumulation), usage rules are defined in advance
This clarity prevents risk, uncertainty or operational disruption — and builds trust across the supply chain.
Who benefits from EN 13782?
This standard is ideal for:
- companies with short- or mid-term space needs
- logistics providers scaling during seasonal peaks
- production facilities under renovation
- organisations seeking flexibility without overinvesting
With EN 13782-compliant structures, you get:
- fast availability (in days or weeks)
- cost-effective deployment (no overdesign)
- transparent limits and safety margins
- reduced permit complexity (depending on country)
The Losberger De Boer approach
We design and build modular halls for storage, logistics and production, tailored to your location and operational needs.
Every hall:
- complies with EN 13782
- is adapted to local climate conditions
- includes clearly defined snow/wind load limits
- is available for rent or purchase
- can be expanded with lighting, doors, heating and more
We also support you with documentation and engineering where required, so your project moves forward without delays or uncertainty.
Conclusion
EN 13782 and EN 1991 are not competing standards — they’re designed for different purposes.
If you're adding space temporarily, EN 13782 offers:
- clarity
- safety
- flexibility
- and speed
So you stay operational, even during transition, growth or unexpected demand.
Ready to plan your structure?
Try our Space Configurator to explore your options
Or view case studies from businesses that chose modular over permanent
