21 Jun Shipping Containers: Everything You Need to Know (A South African Guide)

A shipping container is a rectangular, steel cargo unit engineered and manufactured for transporting goods by ship, truck, or rail. As these units are extremely durable, weather-resistant, secure, and easy to move, they are the perfect “building blocks” for retail spaces, offices, on-site accommodation units, and mobile healthcare facilities, to name a few. Let Absolute Containers explain the types and potential these sturdy metal units offer.

Types and Configurations of a Shipping Container

Depending on what you want a shipping container for and your spatial requirements, units generally fall into four main categories:

• Standard Units: Available in 6m or 12m lengths, new or used, these are the most popular option for storage, transport, and conversions. They are fully enclosed with cargo doors at one end.
• High Cube Units: These are approximately 30cm higher than standard units, offering extra vertical clearance for offices, workshops, or bulky goods.
• Open-Top Units: Manufactured with a removable tarpaulin roof rather than solid steel, they allow for the transport or storage of cargo that exceeds standard container height restrictions.
• Refrigerated Units: Insulated cold-storage units equipped with integrated refrigeration systems to safely transport or store perishable goods.

More Than a Cargo Transport Uni

A shipping container can be converted into affordable temporary or permanent spaces. Some of the most common applications include:

• Secure Storage: The most popular use for containers is secure storage. Their steel construction and lockable doors provide excellent security and protection against the elements.
• Offices and Workspaces: Many infrastructure development projects require temporary office space. Fitted with insulation, lighting, air conditioning, and electrical points, they make comfortable offices or meeting rooms for contractors.
• Retail and Spaza Units: The compact footprint and durability of these metal boxes make them ideal for businesses looking to establish a presence in busy commercial hubs. Custom branding, shelving, serving counters, and security features can be included.
• On-Site Accommodation: Mining operations, construction, and remote worksites often require accommodation for their crew. Converting shipping units into living quarters offers practical solutions where traditional builds may not be viable.

Regardless of whether you require education and training facilities or are setting up mobile clinics to serve the local community, customised units provide a versatile solution for organisations requiring functional, transportable facilities that can be adapted to changing operational requirements. 

Buying or Renting Your Unit

When securing a unit, you must decide between long-term ownership and short-term leasing. Consider buying a shipping container if your project requires permanent infrastructure, unique structural modifications, or asset ownership. A rental is the better financial option if you have a fixed-term contract, temporary storage needs, budget constraints, or are testing the waters for the first time.

Partner with Absolute Containers

The shipping container you select depends on your operational goals, customisation needs, site duration, and budget. The team at Absolute Containers is always available to offer expert advice, helping you choose, customise, and install a temporary or permanent unit to your specific requirements. We encourage you to explore our full range of product offerings.