Relocatable

Relocatable refers to the ability of an object, system, or structure to be moved from one location to another with relative ease. The term implies design features that facilitate transportation, assembly, and reuse in a new site. It is used across several domains, often with domain-specific nuances.

In computing, relocatable commonly describes code or binaries that can be loaded at arbitrary memory addresses. Relocation is the process by which a linker or loader adjusts addresses in object code so the program runs correctly when loaded at a non-fixed base address. Relocatable object files contain relocation entries and enable modular linking and support position-independent code used by shared libraries and modern executables. File formats such as ELF illustrate relocation support.

In construction and housing, relocatable or modular buildings are prefabricated in sections and transported to a site for on-site assembly. They are designed for temporary or permanent use and are valued for faster deployment, scalability, and reuse. Modular units can serve as offices, classrooms, housing, or disaster-relief shelters, and may be containerized for easier transport.

In other contexts, relocatable assets or equipment refer to items designed to be moved with relative ease, such as portable classrooms, temporary facilities, or equipment racks in data centers.

Limitations can include regulatory compliance, durability, and lifecycle costs, as well as the need for on-site utilities and foundations. Relocatable solutions emphasize flexibility and rapid deployment while balancing long-term performance and cost considerations.