Ethanol Storage and Other Bulk Liquid Storage

The storage and transportation of ethanol and liquid waste has spiked over the past six months due to two main factors; the ban of liquid waste with a moisture value >40% going to landfill and the increased demand for ethanol storage. Ethanol is the main ingredient in the manufacturing of hand sanitiser.

Since the outbreak of the Coronavirus (Covid 19), the demand for hand sanitisers in India is up by 400% while distillers in Scotland are using their experience with alcohol production to turn their hands to making sanitisers.

It is no different in South Africa where Almar Container Group are getting calls for the renting of ISO Tank Containers, known as ISOtainers, for the storage of ethanol to cope with the overwhelming demand for hand sanitisers.

ISOtainers are multimodal containers used for ethanol storage and the storage of other bulk liquids. They are internationally approved, meet global safety standards and are inspected before and after each use.

These bulk storage containers have the capacity to carry over 26 000 litres of liquid which has significant advantages over traditional 44 gallon drums or IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) which requires substantial manpower to unload, fill, seal and load for transportation and, depending on the liquid being stored, are often single use.

IBCs store between 200 and 1 250 litres versus ISOtainers’ 21 000 to 26 000 litres reducing the manpower needed to fill the ISO Tanks which minimises handling of the product by staff - a priority in reducing the spread of infection or exposure to hazardous waste.

ISOtainers are built to last and have an estimated lifespan of 20 - 30 years. This means that they can be reused numerous times to store bulk liquids such as ethanol which reduces costly environmental packaging waste.

These bulk liquid storage containers are stackable and with maximising space, time and budget being a priority, ISOtainers on lease are the ultimate solution.

Renting the container means that stock can be increased or decreased depending on demand for the storage of ethanol or other liquids. Almar’s trained technicians take care of all the technical or maintenance requirements during the course of the lease, allowing the customer to focus on their core business.  

Over and above ethanol and liquid waste storage, ISOtainers are configurable and can be built to safely carry a huge variety of loads, such as: alcoholic beverages, food products, hydrogen peroxide, mining chemicals, nitric acid, oils, resins, solvents, sulphuric acid and more.

Should you need to store ethanol, liquid waste or any of above in bulk, please contact Wesley Turk from Almar Container Group on 031 561 6767 or email wesley@almar.co.za

Background information:

The ISO Tank Container, also known as portable tank, tank container, ISOtainer, tanktainer, bulk storage container, or intermodal tank, are used for the storage and transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals, foodstuffs, and liquefied gases. An ISOtainer is a cylindrical vessel, made of 316 grade stainless steel, with a maximum carbon content of 0.03%. It has a cold rolled shell 2B finish, with a 4.3mm thickness (+0.22 mm corrosion allowance).

In the 1960s, containers became the preferred way of shipping goods around the world. The appeal was that every container conformed to sizes defined by the International Standards Organisation (ISO), 40’ x 8’ x 8’6” or 20’ x 8’ x 8’6”. Before long the concept of fitting a cylinder inside the standard 20’ frame was adopted and the ISO Tank Container was born. ISOtainers became a standard for the storage and transportation of liquids (including fuel), chemicals, gases, powders, and even some types of food.

Reefer Containers: Everything You Need to Know



What are reefer containers?

Reefer containers are big, mobile fridges that are used to transport and store products that need to be temperature controlled such as fruits, meat, fish, seafood, vegetables, dairy, medication and beverages, for example.

Refrigerated containers, known as reefers, keep fresh produce, perishable items, medicines, anatomical waste and beverages cold or frozen. These 20ft (6m) and 40ft (12m) containers are 2.4m wide and run on three phase (380 - 460v) power and can keep the contents at a consistent temperature ranging between -25°C and +25°C. Temperature can be adjusted and controlled to within 0.3°C of required set point.



How do reefer containers work?

Reefer containers are bottom air delivery units designed to distribute chilled air from the floor, via specific T-shaped decking, with the advantage of producing a consistent and uniform flow of air across the entire container, powerful enough to ensure a perfect air exchange with the goods.

Although not necessary, storing produce on pallets in reefers assists with stacking, loading and offloading. Nine pallets fit into a 20ft container while 20 pallets fit into a 40ft container.



How are reefer containers powered?

Each container is supplied with a length of power cable between 10 and 15m long (4 core, 4mm2 cable) and a standard marine grade IP65 rated CEE 17 plug with a 3’Clock earth pin. The electrical point required is a CEE 17 coupler with 3’Clock earth with a 32A D curve circuit breaker to protect the cable / electrical components. Alternatively, remove the C17 plug completely and wire directly into a 32A ‘D’ curve circuit breaker. NB – it requires a ‘D’ curve circuit breaker or motor start breaker. An industrial light start breaker will breakdown and cause single phasing and power supply problems. Reefers require a 3 Phase plus Earth connection – no Neutral is required.

It is important to note that a reefer cannot freeze unfrozen products. Reefers are holding freezers and will maintain the products temperature. The produce needs to be at the required temperature when packed into the reefers.



How easily available are reefer containers?

Reefers are available from Almar Container Group for short and long term rental. Dependent on the location, Almar reefers are rented on a fully supported basis with 24/7 technical support. Almar can assist with technical on-site installation of the reefers should this be required and technical support contact details are placed on all our refrigerated containers should you need to get hold of a technician.




Are reefers cost effective?

With permanent cold storage facilities you can face high costs and issues with accessibility. Chances are that your cold storage facility won’t be near the place your products need to be transported to. Hence, you’re going to end up having to organise regular transportation, which will lead to spending even more.

A reefer is also much faster to obtain than constructing bulk cold storage. With a reefer, you can have the cold storage you need immediately.

Renting a reefer container from Almar means no additional expenses such as service costs, or expensive repair costs in the event of a mechanical breakdown. Almar takes the risk and covers all these costs.



Are reefers energy efficient?

Reefers are energy efficient. All Almar containers for rent are Carrier - a world-leading brand in container refrigeration. Their optimised assembly reduces power consumption but not airflow.

For minimal environmental impact, R-134a freon of the Carrier has a significantly lower atmospheric life and GWP (Global Warming Potential) than R-404A.



What is the cooling capacity of a reefer?

Temperature Watts Btu/hr
2°C (35°F) 12,000 40,900
-18°C (0°F) 6,600 22,500
-29°C (-20°F) 4,400 15,000



What are the installation requirements of a reefer?

The site needs to be level and built from a suitable material that will prevent the container sinking into the ground. Make sure that the front and back of the unit is level and the doors are square. A slight fall towards the door end will facilitate the cleaning of the interior. This fall should be around 3 to 4 degrees.



How can I maintain a reefer?

The following basic steps can be taken to keep your refrigerated container in good working order:

Daily:

Keep a twice daily record of the temperature on the control panel to ensure any variations are noted. Ensure the container is switched to a manual defrost cycle before entering the container.

Monthly:

Ensure that no ice build-up is allowed to develop within the container, especially on the floor area and within the T-Bar flooring, as this may disrupt the airflow within the container and cause temperature fluctuations. A complete clean out and removal of ice may be called for.

Almar offers fully supported rental agreements, so we take care of the regular servicing, allowing you to focus on your core business.




Client uses of reefer containers:

According to Dave Williams of Almar Container Group, October, November and December is referred to in the industry as ‘reefer season’. This is because retailers need to stock up on additional fresh and frozen produce and renting temporary storage on their premises is the ideal solution. Outdoor events and festivals which require temporary dry and refrigerated storage also spike over these three months.

During ‘reefer season’ in South Africa, Almar Container Group supplied reefer containers to Rocking the Daisies, The BMW M Festival, The 9 hour endurance race at Kyalami, The Nedbank Golf Challenge and Corona Sunset Festivals to name a few. This saw a 48% percentage increase in reefer rentals for this three month period.

The Nedbank Golf Challenge, one of the highlights on the South African sporting calendar, make use of reefers for the tournament which forms part of the European Tour. They rent up to 30 Almar reefers for the four day event held in November at Sun City, which attracts over 60 000 spectators. The reefers keep their stock cold, secure and at their fingertips for the duration of the tournament.

The Saudi Government organises one of the biggest entertainment events in the region called Dairiyah Seasons which runs for a month from the end of November to the end of December. The event attracts renowned global artists and entertainers with the venue extending over 130 000 square meters and attracting over one million visitors. Almar Saudi supplied a combination of 59 dry and reefer containers on a rental basis for this epic event.

Almar’s wide range of refrigerated containers provide a versatile and cost effective alternative to typical cold storage solutions. Not only do refrigerated containers offer an instant secure cold room facility, for either chilled or frozen products, but they are also offered on a rental or outright purchase basis.

Almar Reefer Containers keep your perishable goods at the perfect temperature, in any environment. For more information contact Almar on 031 561 6767 or email dave@almar.co.za.



What are the benefits of reefer containers?

Refrigerated containers are an easy way to increase your storage volume and offer many advantages which include the following:

10 Creative Uses for Containers For Rent in South Africa This Festive Season

This article is about using containers that are readily available to rent in South Africa to capitalise on the year-end spend.

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur waiting to grasp the opportunity to make additional income over December and January, read the suggestions we have come up with which simply require you to rent an Almar container over the next two months. We have top insider suggestions, learnt from our customers, which could help you make money when foot traffic is high and people have disposal income available.

If you are already an entrepreneur, you might need a container to carry additional stock needed to capitalise on the demand over the holiday period. Containers are a great solution to ensure your business is year-end ready.



Ten Great Uses for Renting a Container this Christmas


1.

Sell beautifully handcrafted South African products from a used shipping container

Overseas visitors are fascinated by traditional African arts and crafts. Hand-woven baskets, wire art, colourful cotton prints, wood, clay and stone carvings are in high demand as gifts to take home, or reminders of fond memories made while visiting. Used containers for rent can showcase these exquisite mementos in a location which attracts tourists visiting our country.

Containers do not attract the same overheads and commitment as a retail outlet. Being portable and offering a monthly rental option is a huge benefit in choosing containers to rent in South Africa.



2.

A pop up café in a container near the action

A number of our shipping containers for rent in South Africa are making popular cafes. Besides being a fun and funky option, local entrepreneurs love them because they are cheaper than brick-and-mortar buildings and have a reduced environmental footprint.

Containers for rent provide a perfect lock-up and go and weatherproof solution. Shipping containers withstand the worst forces of nature out in the middle of the ocean so South Africa’s ‘bad weather’ can hardly compare with that.

A pop up café in an easily accessible spot may develop into a hotspot where locals gather, collaborate on ways to improve their communities and help them grow. This brings more business for the café owner while ideas to uplift the community are discussed and action plans put in place.


3.

Community Support during the Christmas holidays

Although the holiday period is a happy time for many, for a large portion of the population it is the most difficult time of the year. Those who don’t have families find it exceptionally lonely. Obtaining a container for rent and having a temporary outlet where the downtrodden and heartbroken can come and speak to a trained council or engage in a meaningful activity can be lifeline.

Alternatively the container for rent can be used to showcase features of the community which would be of interest to the holidaymakers – such as local foods, traditions, rituals, artefacts. It would be fascinating to an international visitor to see the day to day life of a South African living in a rural area. Adapting a container into an information centre staffed by local residents bridges a gap.

South African townships have done this and seen their economy grow. Call Almar Container Group in Durban on +27 31 561 6767 for more information and advice.



4.

Rent a refrigerated container and sell ice creams and ice-lollys

As we know, summer in South Africa is hot and what better way to cool down than with an ice cream or ice lolly, especially if it is conveniently positioned by a bus stop or taxi rank.

Rent a Almar refrigerated container, erect a sign and stock up to sell by bringing your product directly to your target market.

Background:

Refrigerated containers, often referred to as Reefers, traditionally transported South Africa’s fresh fruit to Europe on container ships. They keep product cool or frozen depending on requirements. Refrigerated containers are giant fridges / freezers and all they need is a transformed power source to work which could be a wall plug or a generator. It’s that straightforward.


5.

Trial holiday accommodation potential on your smallholding or farm

Backpacking is a growing business opportunity. Tourists want to experience the beauty of our country and being based on a small holding or farm is the best way to achieve this?

If you own a piece of land near a beach, dam or hiking trail you could be sitting on a gold mine, but where do you start? Building a permanent backpackers lodge is expensive without the cash readily available.

Why not rent a few containers to trial the idea?


6.

Adapt a storage container for both selling from and overnight lodging at a festival

Music and food and beverage festivals are a great drawcard for crowds over the festive season and having a stall is an excellent opportunity to make money. You don’t want to be far away from your money-generating opportunity and crowds want to celebrate until all hours of the morning. Being open for trade until the sun comes up is how to maximise this business prospect.

You can rent a container to trade from, to store your backup stock safely and to pack your exhibits or sitting area away at the end of the trading day. Then you can sleep peacefully in the container knowing everything is secure. You can then set up in the morning in a matter of minutes. Leaving you more time to engage with customers and sell.

A dry container for rent also provides a temporary home on a festival site. When you add up the cost of accommodating yourself and two casual staff, for example, in a bed and breakfast for the duration of the festival, you’ll find the container for rent works out cheaper.


7.

Open a beach umbrella and deck chair business where people gather for fun

If the weather is great and a fun activity is taking place, we often end up spending the whole day somewhere, when we only intended to pop in. This could be anything from a kite-flying competition in a park to a surf competition on a beach.

However, our legs start getting tired from standing around and sitting down and relaxing in the shade to enjoy a cold beverage or an impromptu braai sounds like the ideal plan. This is when hiring deck chairs and beach umbrellas from a rented container comes into demand.

Invest in renting a small container, umbrellas, chairs and maybe fold-up tables and then establish a presence in your area where people gather for fun.


8.

Use containers for rent for an one-on-one service business

Simple, one-on-one service businesses like barber shops, hair or nail salon, beauty or massage parlour can easily be provided to customers from a rented converted container. Renting a container means substantially less risk, less cost and the mobility to allow you to be where your customers want you to be.

Permanent tattoo parlours in shipping containers for sale is on the increase.


9.

Use a storage container for your perishable and non-perishable goods

Food and beverage is a ’just-in-time business’ because of its limited shelf life. But what do you do when you are busiest while your suppliers are away on their Christmas holidays?

Fortunately, Almar Container Group has a stock of dry storage containers, and fridge / freezer containers to rent in South Africa. They are your obvious solution for additional food and beverage storage. Give us a call on +27 31 561 6767 and we’ll explain how it works.



10.

Use tank containers (known as ISOtainers) for the storage of liquid waste

ISOtainers for rent are perfect for the temporary storage of liquid and semi-liquid waste. Just pump it in and when the tank is full organise a recycler to pump it out or a transporter to take it to a waste recycling company to be reprocessed.


You and An Almar Container Could Be in Business Soon.

We have a range of dry storage containers, insulated containers, liquid containers (ISOtainers) and fridge / freezer containers (Reefers) to rent in stock at our depots in Durban, Dar as Salaam, Mombasa, Nairobi, Namibia, Dubai, Khabar and Kampala.

We have assisted many small businesses to start up and grow using our containers for retail, accommodation and storage. Give us a call at +27 31 561 6767 or contact us via https://almarcontainergroup.com/contact-us/.

In summary, here are the 10 uses for containers to rent in South Africa which Almar suggests:

  1. Sell beautifully handcrafted South African products from a used shipping container
  2. Create a pop up café in a container near the action
  3. Start a community support centre during the Christmas holidays
  4. Rent a refrigerated container and sell ice creams and ice-lollys
  5. Trial holiday accommodation on your smallholding or farm
  6. Adapt a storage container for both selling from and overnight lodging at a festival
  7. Open a beach umbrella and deck chair business where people gather for fun
  8. Use containers for rent for an one-on-one service business
  9. Use a storage container for your perishable and non-perishable goods
  10. Use tank containers (known as ISOtainers) for the storage of liquid waste

Build a Self-Storage Service with Affordable Shipping Containers for Sale

Self-storage facilities are catching on fast throughout South Africa. This follows a trend in North America and Europe where they have been a good business for decades. Shipping containers for sale are fast becoming popular storage modules on account of their inherent strength and inbuilt flexibility.

By 2018 there were already over 40,000 self-storage complexes in the United States alone. The reasons are simple. Temporary storage is an ideal solution for any society, business or individual in transition. Moreover using portable shipping containers means you can take the service to the customer.



Portable On-Demand Storage Using Shipping Containers for Sale


Used shipping containers are hot property as building blocks of the future. Maritime authorities deem them unseaworthy at an age when they are still perfectly suited for storage on land. Smart business has discovered they are an excellent way to solve customer needs fast when they need storage immediately.

Portable on-demand storage is now delivering good profits for entrepreneurs in the United States. There, highly scalable businesses deliver rented shipping containers to households and businesses on the move.

Their customers pack them full of equipment, goods and possessions, lock them securely, and see them shipped to a secure site without ever having to leave their premises. This is so much more sensible than brick-and-mortar or concrete.




The Age of Modular, Flexible, Scalable Self-Storage Centres


If you are considering this income-generating opportunity, you’ll be pleased to know your portable on-demand storage business could be any size from one container to several hundred. Moreover if you overshoot there’s a steady market for seconds.

We have shipping containers for sale in the full popular range of designs and sizes. Within limitations you can stack them several high in the comfort of knowing they were made to be wind, water and weather tight for transporting on decks of ships.

Your customers will be so pleased to know you fetch and carry them on demand. They will be even more delighted they can hold them on their site, or ask you to keep them in your safe-secure yard.

As an added advantage you can legally attach them, and take them away if customers fall behind with their payments. That’s because containers are equipment and not buildings, and the laws of tenant and landlord do not apply.

You could even sell the contents out of hand at an auction if you follow our advice on contractual conditions.


More Info Regarding this Attractive Opportunity

Table of Contents

  1. The Future Role of Shipping Containers in Self-Storage Facilities
  2. Shipping Container Basics: What You Need to Know About Them
  3. What to Look For When Viewing Shipping Containers for Sale
  4. Where to Go for More Reliable Advice During the Planning Stage
  5. How to Build a Self-Storage Service Using Shipping Containers



The Future Role of Shipping Containers in Self-Storage Facilities


Self-storage facilities in South Africa began as fenced-off areas in warehouses. Businesses (and individuals) stored movable assets there on the basis only they had the keys to the wire cages.

This was somewhat inconvenient however, because they did not have direct access to their individual areas. There was also no privacy because people walking past could see what was inside.

Arrival of Precast Concrete Garages

During the 1960’s advances in the precast concrete industry enabled the fabrication of precast garages for cars. It was not long before the self-storage industry spotted the potential. That, in a nut shell is the origin of the rows of neatly-shuttered doors in self storage depots today.

Customers soon cottoned on to the obvious advantages. The precast garages were rock-solid and well-secured with locking shutter doors. Potential thieves had no idea what was inside. However customers would drive right up to the entrance of their units.

But, there was still one catch to this ‘perfect situation’. The concrete storage units were un-portable. Therefore, customers had the added cost of transporting their assets to and from their storage, and revisiting it every time they wished to remove or add something.

Parallel Developments in Shipping Containers

Meanwhile, out on the ocean millions of steel shipping containers were making their mark on international transportation. They were immensely strong, weatherproof and waterproof, and most importantly for our purposes superbly transportable.

Quite soon shippers began to stack containers high on the decks of specialized ships. Since a slippage could potentially cause a serious list, or worse the World Shipping Council began regulating how these were to be secured.

This was doubly important because containers lost at sea can float for weeks and even months almost submerged, and cause severe damage to a vessel colliding with them. Requirements to secure them properly inevitably lead to container standardization, licensing and inspection.

Shipping Containers Find New Uses on Land

The principal of safety above all other things at sea, results in perfectly usable containers being condemned by marine authorities simply because they have reached the end of their ‘use by dates’. These are beginning to pile up at ports worldwide.

South African companies like Almar Container Group are finding innovative new uses for these ‘retired containers’. Their shipping containers for sale are finding new lives as temporary construction buildings, holiday homes, low cost housing developments, and our topic for today self-storage modules.




Shipping Container Basics: What You Need to Know Before You Start


Here’s what you need to know about containers before reading further:




What to Look For When Viewing Shipping Containers for Sale

Pre-used shipping containers are robust, although they inevitably show signs of wear after loading and offloading from ships over as long as a decade. The maritime climate takes its toll in terms of rust caused by scratches. However the beams forming the framework and bearing the load can stand up to most things.

Try to look past the obvious, minor damage. If you want ones that are as good as new buy them ‘out the box’ for twice the price. Otherwise, test for structural damage first. You can use some of the money you save for a quick ‘panel beat and spray’ makeover.

Be careful about selecting containers based solely on price. Obtain estimates from several contractors for making good any damage you want repaired. Finally, transporting containers is not cheap because you need a heavy vehicle with lifting gear.

Therefore, do your sums carefully as you develop your business plan. For example how many container/days rental do you expect per month, and how will this ramp up. Think of both land and site preparation expenses.

Remember to include your utility costs, labour and overheads too. We don’t hope to just sell you used containers. We want your project to succeed and flourish so you come back for more.




Where to Go for More Reliable Advice During the Planning Stage


Almar Container Group does more than offer good value when it comes to shipping containers for sale. We offer a full-on consulting service when it comes to the technical aspects of our products.

We are also able to offer advice when it comes to renovating, modifying, custom fitting-out and transporting our shipping containers too. Think of us as a one-stop-shop able to help bring your container self-storage project from design through to completion.

Almar Container Group has been headquartered in Durban, South Africa since 1988. Our head office is now at Ridgeside Office Park, Umhlanga Rocks, telephone +27 31 561 6767 email sales.za@almar.co.za.

We are also active in Walvis Bay Namibia, Dar es Salaam Tanzania, Mombasa and Nairobi Kenya, Kampala Uganda, Dubai Arab Emirates, and Khabar Saudi Arabia.




How to Build a Self-Storage Service Using Shipping Containers


Self-storage sites are becoming popular as the economy stutters and small businesses have to mothball temporarily. Some families have to move to rented accommodation and have furniture and appliances to store for a while. We know of operators who also lease some of their containers as mini-workshops for start-up businesses although that is not our main topic here.

Our primary interest is to help you, a budding entrepreneur get started with a potentially money-spinning opportunity. We share tips that we have gained over decades of experience in the container game. So relax and discover what we have learned.

Establish Your Self-Storage on the Right Piece of Land

You will definitely get to profit sooner – perhaps two years after you purchase the containers – if you don’t have to pay rent or service a loan. Whichever the case may be, find a site with loads of traffic because some of those passers-by will become your customers.

Research your likely customers’ profiles. Will you be near an industrial site where entrepreneurs require overflow storage? Perhaps you will be near a low-cost housing settlement where self-build homeowners need secure storage for building materials.

Purchase Containers That Appear as Close to New as Possible

First impressions do count because self-storage customers need assurance their possessions will be safe. Pay a bit more for one-trip or as-new containers that could last twenty years with maintenance and create the right impression.

Also, make sure you keep a clean and tidy yard at all times. As your business grows and you need to purchase more shipping containers for sale at good prices, a professional appearance will make finance easier to arrange.

If you are unsure of the market potential, and want to test the scene, Almar also allows you to rent containers. This way you avoid the hefty capex spend up front, and can manage your cash flow and risk more efficiently.

Think Twice Before Ordering in Bulk from Overseas

While it can be tempting to buy direct from a container manufacturer, there are restrictions a start-up needs to know. In the first instance, you will be to pay upfront before the containers even leave the dispatching port.

Then secondly you may have to wait several months for your order to arrive with an urgent need to set it down quickly. When this happens, you may notice a number of dents and scratches. That’s because container factories often ship their products with third party consignments packed inside to make extra money on the side.

However, the worst problem you may have is a container short delivery. A container maker is not geared for dispatching single items and you may have to wait a long time for a replacement one. Getting a refund may prove so difficult over a long distance, that you decide it is simpler to cut your losses.

And finally, do be careful of container scammers out there. We are not trying to persuade you to purchase from us (although it would be our pleasure to supply you). We are simply saying sending a large amount of money to a stranger you have not met, does carry risks. You may not know even know who to sue if there is a problem.

For These Reasons Rather Choose a Reliable Local Supplier

It may be best to standardise on 6 metre (20 foot) storage containers as similar-length ones look great when lined up together. Different manufacturers decorate their products is varying styles and colours. Working with a single local company means they will tip you off when matching shipping containers for sale come into stock.

Having a harmonious appearance on your site should attract more than passing trade. Your business and home-based customers will also feel more confident in recommending your self-storage depot to their associates and friends.

Insist on Fitting Proprietary Locks to Your Containers

Don’t allow self-storage customers to bring their own padlocks. In fact, remove any hasps and staples. This is because you may need to obtain access for security and other reasons, including late-payment of rentals.

Install sets of fitted locks with settable combinations, but with a master over-ride code as used in hotel mini-safes. Make sure only you, one trusted person and your locksmith know the over-ride combination.

Take Your Time Designing Your Self-Storage Layout

Moving containers around is not quick or cheap after you position them in tight rows. You will require a special mobile crane and even then access may be difficult.

Of course, you don’t have to implement the complete plan right away, if you use a reliable local supplier and buy as you need. You can implement your ideas as your business grows and eventually double-stack some containers.

Consider Fitting Some of Your Containers for Premium Rentals

Not all your customers may be the tidiest lot and they may end up staining metal container floors with oils and other spills. Other may be more selective because they need sell-storage for precious possessions, or other valuables.

It therefore makes sense to choose shipping containers for sale for different grades of customers and fitting them out accordingly. Consider doing the following for premium ones:

Speak to Town Planning before You Commit

Consult your local planning office before starting detailed planning, and confirm your intentions before you commit to anything. You may need a planning departure because you are not using brick and mortar. However your new neighbours will likely support you once they know the open land next door has found a use.




Now for the Final Touches to a Successful Project


Manage Your Customers - Be Paid Regularly

Use standing orders or direct debits to make sure you are paid on time. You will have customers who hardly, if ever visit, because they delegate the fetching and carrying to other people, or are overseas.

You don’t want to come across as a money-grabbing person, but business is business. Insisting on pre-arranged payments sets that problem aside.

Keep the Place Neat and Tidy at All Times

Do more than creating a job by hiring a light maintenance / cleaning type. They will be gainfully occupied keeping the yard clean and tidy, and doing minor, semi-skilled repairs you won’t have time for.

Cycle your containers through a three-year repainting cycle, especially the ones near the entrance. Your new customers are entrusting their valued possessions to your self-storage for the first time. Therefore it’s essential to always make the best first impressions possible.

Put a Solid Contract in Place

This is one occasion when a good lawyer is indicated. That’s because you are unlikely to see what your customers are storing, and therefore cannot accept any liability.

This is not the right place to go into details because we are not qualified to offer legal advice. However, from experience we know you must cover at least:




And Finally What About the Office?

That’s an easy question we were about to answer. A container makes a perfect office as you will find if you visit most large construction sites near you. You can insert windows and doors in the corrugated metal sides. If you panel the inside, including insulation, you could almost forget you are working in a container.

This will set the right tone when your customers visit you because they will see you are not planning on wasting their money on luxuries for yourself. If your business expands and you need a new entrance, you can lift it up with a crane and transport it to its new location.


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The Next Step to Take on Your Self-Storage Project

We based this guide on a storage facility we operate ourselves. There are many different varieties on similar themes. However, we did our best to cover the main considerations.

We have a steady supply of containers passing through our depots daily, and we will be delighted to supply some for your project. Our premises are open by prior arrangement in the event you would like to inspect our shipping containers for sale in person.

You are more than welcome to contact Almar Container Group at phone +27 31 561 6767 or email sales.za@almar.co.za for more advice and information. We are passionate about containers and look forward to exchanging ideas with you.


A Cargo Container for Specialized Shipping by Sea

Strictly speaking, a container is anything we put things in for safekeeping or to deliver them somewhere. Theoretically, a ‘container’ could be a corrugated or cardboard box, a crate, or even a drum. However, over the years the transport industry developed a large, robust cargo container ‘box’ with doors, and adapted the design so it could travel by ship, rail, or on a lowbed trailer.

Is a Cargo Container the Same as an Intermodal Container?

The terms are virtually interchangeable since a cargo container can transport by ship, rail, or lowbed trailer mode. This flexibility enabled container shipping to simplify loading and unloading and dominate the cargo industry.

It also spawned a vibrant market in second-hand containers beyond their use-by dates but still in fair condition. These cargo containers are in popular use as construction site offices, village clinics, holiday homes and so much more. Our customers love them because they are cheaper than brick-and-mortar buildings, and ‘erect’ in a flash.

There Are Now Over 20 Million Cargo Containers in the World

The cargo container has proved its worth as a quick and convenient way to move goods around the world. Handling and securing equipment on ships, railway trucks, and lowbed transporters have standardised too. A container sent from Durban to London will hold no surprises for dockworkers on the far side of the world.

Those over 20 million containers make a total of 200 million trips every year. At any one time, there are close to six million of them travelling on ships to the four corners of the globe. An average of four of them falls into the water every day, which is remarkably low compared to the number of traffic accidents in Durban!

A number of these containers never make it back to their owners because of the high cost of shipping them empty. There are currently several million of these for sale in cities with container ports, and these are increasingly being turned into economic homes and affordable student housing.

The Humble Cargo Container that Transformed the World

The people who conceived the first cargo container would have had no idea how it would transform commercial transport. Indeed its influence compares with the extent the internet transformed communication.

Almar has a stock of containers for sale or for rent in Durban, Walvis Bay, Dubai, Dar es Salaam, Kabar, Mombasa, Kampala, and Nairobi. Please be assured of our best prices and contact us soon for superior service.

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Comparing Shipping Container Sizes If Relocating Abroad

We get calls every week from people wanting to know the optimum shipping container sizes for their household goods. Sometimes they end up purchasing a used container from us in cargo worthy condition they can resell at their destination. However, others prefer to use a removal company because they have enough on their minds.

Shipping Container Sizes Vary and So Do the Costs

Most of the containers we see on ocean-going ships (and occasionally falling off) are either 20 ft. or 40 ft. ones. However, there are other smaller and larger ones in the below list:

Carrying Capacity in Terms of Household Goods

The most popular shipping container sizes for household moving are 20 ft. and 40 ft. ones. As a general rule of thumb:

However, it’s rare to find a family needing exactly 30 or 65 cubic metres. Hence many people relocating share containers with others moving to the same location.

How Full Container and Less Container Loading Works

Your shipping agent will help you calculate the optimum size. You may find leaving the leather lounge suite behind achieves a greater saving than the cost of a replacement one overseas.

If you pay for a ‘full container load’ (FCL) you don’t have to ‘stand in a queue’ while your household goods travel somewhere else first. However, a ‘less container load’ (LCL) can work out cheaper if you don’t mind waiting a little longer.

Run the Numbers First Before Deciding

Shipping household goods from Durban to the UK can cost between R100,000 and R150,000 depending on container size, insurance costs, final destination etc. Cape Town to Sydney can cost between R150,000 and R200,000. You could have more money in your pocket towards setting up your new home by making the right decision when choosing between shipping container sizes wisely.

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Assessing Shipping Container Rental Prices

If you are considering leasing or renting a container the first thing you will want to know is how much it will cost you. Container rental prices do vary, not only from region to region and the length of time you rent for, but also in terms of size, age, condition, and customisation.

Generally, container rental prices will be greater the bigger and newer the container is. Converted shipping containers will also cost a lot more than standard steel containers used for mobile storage.

So, the first thing to do is assess your needs.

Shipping Container Rental Prices & Sizes

As mentioned above, the size of any shipping container will affect container rental prices. But then there are not a lot of choices. An ISO container is manufactured according to strict international standards and sizes are specified. If you are looking at containers used for dry freight and mobile storage (even if you plan to use it to store items on site) there are basically five sizes to choose from, all of which have been rounded off to the nearest cm:

  1. The smallest containers are 3 m (or 10 ft) long and about 2.5 m wide. They are all 2.6 m high. These are great where space is at a premium.
  2. The most commonly used containers are double this length (6 m or 20 ft) but the same width and height. However, there is also a “high cube” option that is 2.9 m in height.
  3. The largest standard shipping containers are 12 m (40 ft) long. The general purpose option is the same height and width of the smallest containers, and the high cube option is 2.9 m high.

Refrigerated shipping containers and specialised containers manufactured for unconventional or over-sized cargo have different dimensions.

Shipping Container Types

When considering container hire prices you will find that most refer to standard steel general purpose containers intended for storage of dry freight. These are suitable for mobile storage – if you plan to transport dry goods from one location to another – or for storage in one particular place, for example, to keep building materials safe, secure, and dry on a construction site.

If you are storing or transporting perishable goods, then you are going to need an insulated shipping container that is refrigerated. These are commonly known as reefer containers, and they are designed to keep frozen or perishable items at the right temperature, according to your specifications. Options include 6 m (20 ft) containers that are 6 m x 2.4 m x 2.6 m high; 12 m (40 ft) high cube containers that measure 12 m x 2.4 m x 2.9 m; and reefers designed for static storage that are 6 m x 2.4 m x 2.6 m in size.

Converted Shipping Containers

If you need a shipping container that can be used as an office, a shop, or even for accommodation, container rental prices will be considerably higher, and you will need to search more specifically for container conversion prices or similar.

Shipping Containers from Almar

The Almar Container Group, headquartered in Durban South Africa, has the full range of shipping containers for hire and for sale. We also undertake container conversions.

Almar operates throughout Africa and has offices in Namibia, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and in the Middle East.

If you are assessing shipping container rental prices for use in our area of operation, please contact us to see how we can meet your needs.

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How to Cut Costs on Container Rental Globally

Shipping container rental costs vary, depending on the size, type, and condition of the container you are planning to lease or rent. The bigger it is, and the better its condition, the higher the cost will be. Of course, if you opt for specialised container hire, like refrigerated or specialised units, or some kind of more specific storage rental, that will also cost more.

Generally, your needs will be non-negotiable. For instance, if you are transporting goods that need to be refrigerated, you cannot risk opting for storage containers for rent that are not reefers! So how can you cut costs on container rental prices?

Tips on Cutting Costs on Container Rental Globally

There are several ways that you can cut costs on container rental prices globally.

  1. One is if you use a supplier that allows you to lease containers between regions.
  2. Another is to lease from a professional company that doesn’t charge the demurrage costs you risk paying when you rent from a shipping line and the project takes longer than anticipated.
  3. You will also find that companies that specialize in selling and leasing containers will charge a lot less than shipping companies.

Ultimately, if the container hire agreement allows you to return the leased container once you’re done, rather than expecting you to estimate a time period in advance, you stand to maximise your investment and improve your cash flow. This kind of arrangement is particularly useful in situations where lead-times are uncertain and there is a possibility that projects will take a lot longer than hoped.

Almar Container Hire is a company with offices and facilities in Africa and the Middle East, and they have the capacity to provide containers for big and small international and domestic projects within the countries they service. The company offers one-way, as well as the industry standard master and term container hire options.

Storage Containers for Rent Between Regions

If you are transporting cargo across southern and/or eastern Africa, the Almar option provides an opportunity to save costs. Instead of committing to shipping container rental that starts at the point of origin, delivers the goods, and then returns the container, Almar allows customers to break the journey between regions. In essence, you can have container rental agreements that will allow you to move container goods one way, for instance from Johannesburg to Kampala, and then break-bulk general cargo or non-container goods on the return leg of the journey.

Avoiding Demurrage Costs Associated With Container Hire

Generally, demurrage charges are levied by shipping companies when there is a delay loading or unloading goods. This is an unavoidable cost when using a shipping company for container hire or storage rental and can be as much as US$40 per day if you aren’t able to stick to the initially agreed usage time.

Not only does Almar allow customers to access container hire services from virtually anywhere in the world, but they also allow customers to off-hire at depots in any of the countries they operate in. Additionally, Almar container rental does not carry a demurrage risk, and if you do run over time, the standard rental rates still apply. This is a huge advantage in Africa where project lead times are commonly uncertain.

Container Rental from Almar

Almar Container Group serves all the industries that rely on containers including transport and logistics, cold-storage, offshore oil and gas, and remote site accommodation for working and living. The company sells and leases containers, and container rental prices will depend on your needs. Contact us to discuss how we can help you and we’ll give you the best deal possible.

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Onsite Storage Container Rental: Quick, Flexible & Affordable

For many growing businesses, safe and secure storage for documents, inventory, materials and just about everything that you need close at hand is a real challenge as the initial space you move into just becomes too small too quickly! Onsite storage container rental is the perfect solution, as they are not only super quick to have on site, they are also cheap to rent and no long-term commitments are required.

10+1 Reasons why Onsite Storage Container Rental Is The Way To Go

Whether you need to stock up on inventory for the Christmas rush, or you are just growing out of your current space and need a secure storage solution, onsite storage containers are the perfect option for you.

  1. Quick: Containers can be delivered and placed on just about any surface to create an instant onsite storage warehouse. Delivery will generally occur within 24 hours from confirmation and no other onsite storage solution can match the speed of installation.
  2. Simple: The process is simple, we deliver and place the container in your desired location. A daily rental is charged and once you are done with it, we arrive to collect it. Not much can be simpler than onsite storage container rental.
  3. Cost Effective: Because storage containers can be rented on a short-term basis, you only pay for what you use and nothing more!
  4. Safety for your Goods: Storage containers are built to withstand the rugged conditions of international marine transport, including thick corrugated steel panels and multiple lock access, they give you peace of mind for the storage of your goods.
  5. No Long-Term Contracts: Storage containers can be hired on a daily basis, so there is no long-term commitment needed. This is ideal for temporary requirements such as events or for use during premises upgrades or relocation.
  6. No building regulations: When building warehousing there are always regulations and requirements for building plans as well as limitations on boundary locations and restrictions on servitudes. As containers are completely mobile, none of these challenges exists and you can instantly create an onsite storage space wherever you need to.
  7. Moveable: Storage containers are very easy to move, so you have the flexibility of just relocating the container should you move to a new location.
  8. Versatile: Onsite storage containers are offered in both a plain steel shipping container, as well as a refrigerated container for perishable goods. So, if you need to store anything from documents to building supplies and fresh tuna to ice cream, onsite storage containers are container rental is the perfect solution.
  9. Hassle Free: With the containers being located on your site, you have no need to worry about access to your goods from a storage facility with limited hours. They are your goods and you should be able to have 24/7 access, onsite storage containers offer exactly that!
  10. Modular: As your business grows, you can just add more containers to extend your storage space. They are essentially like big pieces of lego!
  11. Various Sizes: There are various sizes of storage containers allowing for smaller scale needs such as documentation or household goods, to larger scale needs such as inventory storage and bulk materials.

Latest Arrivals

We have recently completed the manufacture of our new storage containers. This picture shows the last few available which are waiting to be deployed:

Storage Containers for Hire

What Size are Storage Containers

Storage containers come in three main sizes, 3m containers (10ft), 6m containers (20ft) and 12m containers (40ft). The cubic capacities of the 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers are 15mᶟ, 30mᶟ and 70mᶟ respectively. All containers have an external width of 2.4m.

Where to go for Onsite Storage Container Rental

Almar Containers have storage containers in various parts of the world including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, Mombasa, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Walvis Bay, Dammam and Dubai... ready and available for immediate hire!

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