Uncover the most up-to-date, cost-saving tips on container shipping from South Africa. Dive into our insightful guide and master everything you need to know about container shipping costs. Start your journey to smart and efficient shipping today!
Container shipping from South Africa varies in cost, typically ranging from R125,000 to R380,000, based on where you’re moving to. For a more detailed breakdown of costs to various destinations check out our table below.
| Moving to | 20ft Container Cost | 40ft Container Cost |
| UK | R155,000 | R195,000 |
| USA | R280,000 | R380,000 |
| Netherlands | R165,000 | R225,000 |
| UAE | R125,000 | R195,000 |
| Australia | R155,000 | R235,000 |
| New Zealand | R155,000 | R235,000 |
Disclaimer: These figures are averages and are merely estimates and only cover the container shipping price. Instead, the final number will be influenced by various factors, which we cover in more detail here.
We know that understanding container shipping can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re here for you. We help you find reliable and trustworthy container shipping companies. By requesting 5 free quotes you can compare the container shipping costs between companies and find what meets your needs. Not only will this save you money on your container shipping cost, but it’ll also reduce the stress of moving.
Grasping the cost factors can not only save you money but also significantly reduce your moving stress. Let’s unpack the factors that will affect the cost.
A container can only hold so much! The volume of your belongings will directly affect the container shipping cost. The higher the volume the more it’ll cost. If you are choosing to travel via sea freight, then the volume is more important, but if you’re opting for air freight, then weight takes the reins.
Given the unchangeable nature of distance, the 8,000-mile trip to the UK will naturally cost more than the 1700-mile trip to Madagascar. The further you need to ship your belongings the higher your container shipping costs will be. It’s a key budget consideration to keep in mind.
There is one factor relating to the distance that you have control over, whether you choose a port-to-port delivery or a door-to-door service. This choice of loading and delivery option affects the final container shipping cost.
When it comes to container shipping prices, the mode of transport has an impact. It comes down to whether you want to save time or money.
There are three ways in which the port you are arriving in affects your container shipping prices:
✍️Research the customs duties and taxes for your specific country before your move to know all the relevant information
Typically, summer sees higher demand and lower capacity, resulting in higher container shipping costs. To optimise your shipping costs, consider avoiding peak season. If your schedule allows, an off-season move could offer significant savings.
It’s time to unpack this topic a little more. Your container shipping rates are determined by what mode of transport you choose. However, it’s not all about money! There are other pros and cons associated with the different transport options, which are explored below:
Sea freight is the standard for international moves from South Africa, especially for furniture relocation. However, understanding its pros and cons can help avoid unexpected issues.
Air Freight is ideal if you have packed light and are not too concerned about costs. Don’t rule this option out if you have the means to consider it or for the items you’ll need quickly.
Trucks will inevitably be a part of your move at some point. If you are moving within the continent, this can be a good option. This often-overlooked method can help reduce the container shipping cost from South Africa.
Another option to consider is trains when you’re moving within Africa. While not often used, it is worth mentioning, nonetheless.
If you remember, the table of container shipping prices had columns for 20ft and 40ft shipping containers. But how big are 20ft and 40ft containers?
A 20ft container is one of the two standard sizes for shipping a container. In terms of volume, it can hold a volume of less than 33m2. This makes it a good option when shipping a 2- or 3-bedroom house.
Size: 6.1m x 2.4m x 2.6m
Total volume: 1,179 ft3 (33.0 m³)
Total shipping load: 54,783 lbs (24,850 kg)
Is a 20ft container what you need? Then click below and receive moving quotes that include the cost of shipping a 20ft container!
Request quotes for a 20ft containerFor those with a house larger than 3-bedrooms, or who just happen to have a lot of furniture, then a 40 ft container might be the right fit. It can hold a volume of 76m2.
Size: 12.2m x 2.4m x 2.6m
Total volume: 2,714 ft3 (76.0 m³)
Total shipping load: 66,577 lbs (30,200 kg)
Wondering about a 40ft shipping container’s price? Then just click below and you can receive up to 5 moving quotes that include the cost of shipping a 40ft container!
Request quotes for a 40ft containerAbove we cover everything relating to Full Container Load (FCL). However, if a 20ft container is a little too big for your move, you’ll be glad to know that you can share a container and the shipping price!
The industry term for a shared container is Less Container Load (LCL), a useful term to know! With LCL, you only use a portion of a container and only pay for the space that you use, thus saving you money on your container shipping cost.
Be aware that it will only be worth it if you’ll be using less than half (<16m2) of the container. Also, you may have to wait a bit longer for your belongings to arrive as the removal company will wait to fill up the container with other people’s belongings before shipping it.
Another important factor in your container shipping cost is the loading and delivery options. These choices are available only for FCL. You’re almost there, keep going!
Not sure how to go about finding the right moving company for you? Our list of the top 10 international movers in South Africa is a great place to start your search!
We thought it was important to briefly mention the other factors affecting your container shipping costs. The list is to help show you some extra costs that are worth considering:
Congratulations! You are now a master at container shipping from South Africa. We hope you found this page informative and that you have a better grasp of what container shipping prices entail.
Don’t delay your move! Request quotes through Sirelo today to get started on your moving journey. Good luck with your move!
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