Shipping containers have been used for years as a safe and cost-effective way to transport goods and materials across country borders. These containers range from large steel boxes primarily used for intermodal shipments to common corrugated boxes. This article explores the question: how much is a container in South Africa, as well as other interesting bits of information about container usage in the country.
Shipping containers are the international symbol of globalisation. With their bright colours and high demand, they have reshaped the world economy by making it possible to transport anything from food relief shoes and even automobiles. Today, over 17 million containers are scattered across oceans or parked in ports worldwide.
There are several types of shipping containers used in South Africa, as explained below.
Types of containers
Standard shipping containers: These containers are the most common type and are available as 20-foot or 40-foot length steel containers.
High cube shipping containers: These are one foot taller than the standard shipping containers. They are thus suitable for taller items, and people typically use them as workspaces.
Flat rack shipping containers: People use these in the transportation of heavy machinery and other bulky cargo. They typically have collapsible sides and ends to enable easy loading and offloading.
Refrigerated containers: These containers have refrigeration units and can transport temperature-sensitive goods such as food and medical supplies.
Dangerous goods containers: These containers can transport hazardous materials and have safety features such as ventilation systems, fire suppression systems, and emergency release valves.
With the recent push towards recycling, people now put shipping containers to different uses than before. At the end of its useful life, a person might choose to put a container to a new and creative use.
Second-lives of containers
The trend of repurposing shipping containers is easily visible in much of sub-Saharan Africa, a region known for its large container trade imbalance. Almost 80% of the containers enter the ports full, leave empty, or are put to other uses.
In South Africa, people now use shipping containers for other purposes, such as;
Housing
People repurpose shipping containers as low-cost housing units. This is especially true in informal settlements and rural areas or townships, which are common in South Africa. Many people turn to this option because they are easy to transport.
However, with a recent push towards more sustainable architecture, more South Africans are getting creative in their home designs using containers.
Commercial and Industrial buildings
These containers are also being used in the construction of offices, warehouses, and other commercial and industrial buildings in the country. They are cheaper and easier to set up than typical commercial property, and for a country with a high cost of living, every penny counts. Containers are also an easy choice for some people because they can easily remodel or modify them to suit different needs.
Retail Spaces
Everything from small pop-up shops to food courts and little shopping areas is set up using shipping containers. South Africans, especially those living in rural areas, utilise shipping containers in place of expensive concrete structures. These are an ideal alternative for small business owners who might not be able to afford prime real-estate.
Disaster relief
People also use shipping containers as temporary housing units for people affected by natural disasters and other major catastrophes. This is because are easy to transport and customize to serve different needs depending on the duration and plans of the government and aid agencies.
An obvious question is whether shipping containers are safe to use for other purposes. Well, shipping containers are indeed safe as long the user ensures the following;
Structural integrity
Although shipping containers were designed to resist the challenges associated with sea travel and cargo handling, they are ill-suited to be in the place of certain types of buildings. Therefore it’s important to have a professional test the container’s structural integrity before moving into it.
Weatherproofing
Shipping containers are essentially large steel boxes and are not naturally weatherproof. Suppose you’re considering turning a container into a home or office. In that case, it’s important to ensure it is properly insulated and sealed. This is to protect yourself against extreme temperatures and moisture.
Fire safety
Although steel is a fire-resistant material, structures made using shipping containers might not have the level of fire safety a building would have. A possible solution could be to install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. It is also important to make sure the container has adequate ventilation.
Occupancy limitations
Shipping containers have a finite size, making them unsuitable for holding big groups of people for long periods. Consequently, without modification, they are best as temporary shelters.
How much is a container in South Africa?
The cost of a shipping container in South Africa varies depending on different factors such as; size and type of container, the shipping company’s location, and the shipment’s distance.
In South Africa, a 20-foot shipping container costs roughly around R45,000- R70,000. A 40-foot container might cost you between R70,000-R100,000. This is the price range for new containers, but used containers are usually more cost-effective.
However, it is important to note that the type of container is also a cause of the price disparity. Remember, there are different types of containers that serve different purposes. For example, standard shipping containers are used to transport general cargo. On the other hand, refrigerated containers are used to transport highly perishable goods. Consequently, the price of refrigerated containers is usually higher than that of standard shipping containers.
Additionally, the cost of shipping containers within South Africa is lower than a container purchased from overseas. Other factors influence prices, such as tariffs, taxes, and regulations. When you consider all these different costs, you can clearly see why the price of containers is high.
Conclusion
The cost of shipping containers in South Africa varies depending on many different factors, including the size and type of container, the location of the shipping company, and the rate of taxes imposed by the local authority. Therefore before purchasing a container, it is a good idea to look around or consider repurposing an old container to cut costs where possible.
How much does a shipping container cost in South Africa?
The cost of a shipping container in South Africa varies depending on the type and size of the container, the shipping company’s location, and the shipment’s distance. Generally, the price range for a 20-foot container is R45,000-R70,000, and for a 40-foot container is R70,000-R100,000.
How can I reduce the cost of purchasing a container in South Africa?
The cost of a container in South Africa depends on several factors such as size, type, and the shipping company’s location. However, the best way to reduce the cost of purchasing a container in South Africa is to buy a used container, buy directly from a local supplier, and research different shipping companies to get the best deal.
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