Shipping Containers for Sale in Johannesburg

Looking for Shipping Containers for Sale in Johannesburg? There are a few things you need to know. Johannesburg is the logistical heart of South Africa, making it the primary hub for both new and used shipping containers. Whether you are looking for a basic storage unit or a structure to convert into an office, the Gauteng market offers a variety of options.

Common Container Types & Estimated Prices (2026)

Container TypeDimensions (L x W x H)ConditionPrice Range (Excl. VAT)
6m (20ft) Standard$6.1m x 2.44m x 2.59mUsed (Cargo Worthy)R35,000 – R40,000
6m (20ft) One-Trip$6.1m x 2.44m x 2.59m xNew / One-TripR50,000 – R75,000
12m (40ft) High Cube$12.19m x2.44m x 2.89m xUsedR35,000 – R45,000
12m (40ft) One-Trip$12.19m x 2.44m x 2.89m xNew / One-TripR90,000+

Key Considerations for Johannesburg Buyers:

  • Delivery Costs: Transporting a 2.5-ton steel box requires specialized crane trucks (hiabs). Delivery within Gauteng typically costs between R6000 and R12,000.
  • Condition Grading: Always check if a used container is “Wind and Watertight” (WWT). Grade B units are standard, while Grade C units may have significant rust or dents.
  • Site Access: Standard containers require massive clearance for a truck to maneuver and drop the unit.

Why Mocon Modular Containers are a Better Option

While traditional shipping containers are iconic, they aren’t always the most practical solution for every site. Mocon specializes in modular containers that address the specific “pain points” of traditional steel boxes.

1. Flat-Packed for Easy Logistics

Unlike a 6m shipping container that requires a heavy crane truck, Moconsa units are flat-packed.

  • Accessibility: They can be carried through standard gates, narrow alleys, or even into building basements where a large truck cannot go.
  • Reduced Cost: Transporting a flat-pack unit is significantly cheaper than hiring a 12-ton crane truck.

2. Superior Material Longevity

Moco units are manufactured using AZ150 Aluzinc®. This material is specifically designed to be:

  • Corrosion Resistant: It offers much higher resistance to the elements than the mild steel found in used shipping containers.
  • Long Lifespan: These units are built to last 40–50 years, compared to the 10–15 year lifespan of a pre-owned shipping container that has already spent years at sea.

3. DIY Assembly (No Heavy Lifting)

A traditional shipping container weighs over 2,200 kg, requiring heavy machinery to move. A Moconsa modular unit is lightweight and can be assembled on-site by a small team without any specialized lifting equipment. This makes them ideal for:

  • Residential backyards (Garden sheds or tool storage).
  • Remote construction sites.
  • Restricted-access urban areas.

4. Customization and Aesthetics

Shipping containers often arrive with “sea-battered” aesthetics—dents, faded paint, and logos. Moconsa containers offer a clean, professional “blank canvas.”

  • Interior Comfort: Because they are built from scratch, they are easier to insulate and fit with electrical points compared to cutting through thick Corten steel.
  • Modern Finishes: Options like Birch ply flooring and custom color coatings make them look like a deliberate architectural choice rather than a repurposed industrial box.

5. Secure & Versatile

Despite being lightweight, they do not compromise on security. They feature stainless steel monobolt fasteners and secure locking mechanisms, making them just as effective for site offices, retail pop-ups, or secure tool storage.