Isando Area Guide

The Ideal Location for Your Industrial Space: Exploring Isando

Introduction

You know how they say, "Location, location, location"? Well, in the industrial property game, that old chestnut still rings true. And if you’re eyeing Gauteng’s East Rand for your next move, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more strategically placed, well-connected hub than Isando. This industrial stalwart has been holding its own for decades — and right now, it’s having something of a revival.

Whether you’re after a logistics-ready warehouse, a solid manufacturing facility, or a mixed-use industrial unit close to OR Tambo International Airport, Isando delivers. Here’s why.

Isando at a Glance

A Brief Backstory

Isando’s been part of Gauteng’s industrial backbone since the mid-20th century. Originally tied to the old airport infrastructure, it evolved from an aviation node into a full-scale industrial zone. These days, it’s a gritty, practical area that works hard and delivers even harder.

What’s Going On There Now?

Today, Isando is a powerhouse for:

• Warehousing & logistics

• Manufacturing (light to heavy)

• Technology & telecoms infrastructure

• Freight and distribution centres

You’ll find big names like DHL, Barloworld, Pepsico, and even high-tech players staking their claim here.

Who Works in Isando?

The labour pool is experienced, with a strong lean towards skilled and semi-skilled workers. You’re pulling from Kempton Park, Edenvale, Germiston, and the broader East Rand — which means high availability and relatively low commuting friction.

Isando’s Industrial Hotspots

1. Isando Industrial Park

• Tailored for manufacturing and assembly operations.

• Expansive floor plates, high-roof clearance, solid loading infrastructure.

• Perfect for mid-size to large-scale industrial tenants.

2. The Logistics District (near Jet Park & Barbara Road)

• Logistics dream: right off the R21 and R24.

• Key access for national and regional freight.

• Preferred by distribution centres, 3PL providers, and courier companies.

3. Isando Tech Node (closer to Kempton Gate)

• More modern builds, often with fibre and higher power supply.

• Great for tech, light industrial R&D, and innovative startups needing proximity to the airport.

Industrial Parks & Developments

You’ll find a mix of old-school industrial yards and revamped spaces with:

• 24/7 security

• Grade B and even A Grade finishes

• On-site management

• Fibre-ready offices

A few notable names:

• Growthpoint Business Park

• Isando Business Park

• Highlands Industrial Estate

Many of these developments offer sectional title or long-term lease options, with flexible layouts from 500 sqm up to 10,000+ sqm.

Infrastructure That Means Business

Transport Links

• R21 & R24 highways: Your fast lane to Pretoria, Johannesburg CBD, and the East Rand.

• OR Tambo International Airport: Just minutes away. Ideal for import/export heavy businesses.

• Rail Access: Adjacent to PRASA freight routes and close to Rhodesfield Gautrain Station.

Utilities

• Isando’s tied into a stable electrical grid (airport-linked), so it’s often exempt from severe load shedding.

• 300A+ power availability in many industrial sites.

• High-speed fibre in all major parks.

Safety & Support

• Nearby fire stations, clinics, police precincts in Kempton Park.

• Business parks offer controlled access, surveillance, and response-ready systems.

Location, Location: Isando’s Strategic Edge

Key Distances

• OR Tambo Airport: 5 min drive

• Johannesburg CBD: 20-25 min via R24

• Eastgate Mall / Bedfordview: 15 min

• Midrand / Pretoria: 30-40 min via R21

Why This Matters

• Faster delivery times and better fleet efficiency.

• Global access for imports/exports.

• Closer to clients and partners in JHB’s main commercial corridors.

Real-World Amenities

Even though it’s industrial, Isando doesn’t feel isolated. Employees and business owners enjoy:

Local Perks

• Neighbourhood shopping centres (Green Valley Centre, Isando Village)

• Petrol stations galore

• Casual eateries and takeaways (Nando’s, Fishaways, and a couple of hidden-gem steakhouses)

For Employees

• Nearby Gautrain station at Rhodesfield

• Taxi ranks and bus routes throughout the node

• Parks and green spaces around Spartan and Esther Park

Let’s be honest — nobody moves to Isando for the lifestyle. But it’s more comfortable than most industrial nodes, and that counts.

Featured Industrial Spaces in Isando

1. Warehouse – Isando Industrial Park

• Size: 9,371 sqm (2,776 sqm office / 6,595 sqm warehouse)

• Rental: R55/sqm gross

• Highlights:

  • 6m eaves, multiple roller doors

  • Excellent access to R24/N12

  • 24/7 security, fibre ready

  • Available: 1 Oct 2024

2. Warehouse – 5 Latei Street

• Size: 2,500 sqm (950 sqm office)

• Rental: R58/sqm

• Location: Opposite OR Tambo Airport highway, non-load shedding area

• Perks:

  • 7m eaves, 300A power

  • Showroom & reception, blue-chip neighbours

  • Great for wholesale/distribution

3. Warehouse – 18 Skietlood Street

• Size: 3,302 sqm (2,590 sqm warehouse)

• Rental: R52/sqm

• Ideal for: Manufacturing

• Extras:

  • 200A power, 8m to eaves

  • Close to Isando Train Station

  • Flexible zoning for growth-minded operators

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the average rental rate in Isando?

Anywhere between R50 to R70/sqm, depending on the grade, location, and yard access. B Grade units dominate, but a few newer options creep into A Grade territory.

Is load shedding an issue?

Not really. Isando sits on the airport’s power grid, so it’s generally less impacted. Several parks also have backup power or solar.

What’s vacancy like?

Low. Vacancy’s hovering under 5%, which keeps rental rates relatively stable and competitive.

Is Isando being revitalised?

Absolutely. Old stock is being refurbished. Recent developments — like Edward Snell’s new distribution centre — show serious capital is being reinvested here.

Final Thoughts: Why Isando Works

In a nutshell, Isando is dependable. It’s not flashy, but it’s practical, well-connected, and it gets the job done — just like the businesses that thrive there. If you’re looking for value, strategic logistics, and an industrial ecosystem that just works, Isando should be on your shortlist.

Got your eye on a specific space? Or just want to chat about the best fit for your operation? Let’s talk.