Berlin – Germany Container Depot
Looking for a used shipping container in Berlin and its surroundings? HZ-Containers offers the sale of used shipping containers directly from a professional container depot in Großbeeren near Berlin. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about purchasing a used container.
Berlin as a Logistics Hub for Shipping Containers
Berlin is not only the capital of Germany. It is also one of the most important logistics crossroads in Central Europe. It lies on the connecting line between Western European ports (Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Rotterdam) and the markets of Central and Eastern Europe. Thousands of shipping containers flow through here every day.
Why Berlin and Großbeeren?
Just south of Berlin lies GVZ Berlin Süd Großbeeren — the most powerful logistics center in all of western Germany. Right here, at the address Märkische Allee 71, 14979 Großbeeren, sits the DB Intermodal Services terminal, where HZ-Containers offers the sale of shipping containers.
GVZ (Güterverkehrszentrum) is the official designation for a logistics area that connects road, rail, and in some cases water transport. Großbeeren is connected directly to the DB Cargo rail network, so containers arrive here by train from seaports.
Transport Connections of the Depot
| Type of Transport | Description |
|---|---|
| Road | Direct access to the A10 motorway (Berliner Ring) and A13 towards Dresden/Prague |
| Rail | DB Intermodal Services terminal with regular connections from Hamburg and Bremerhaven |
| Water | Connection via the Havel–Spree canals to the Elbe waterway all the way to Hamburg |
For you as a customer, this means one key thing: containers flow into the depot regularly and in large volumes. Thanks to this, there is always a wide selection of types, sizes, and price categories. And because there is no need to transport from the port to your home, you save on transport costs.
What is a Container Depot and How Does it Work
Before you decide to buy a used shipping container, it will help you understand what a container depot actually is and why it is important that HZ-Containers offers containers at just such a facility.
Definition and Purpose of the Depot
A container depot (ICD — Inland Container Depot, sometimes also called a “dry port”) is a secured logistics area designated for the storage, management, maintenance, and repair of shipping containers during periods when they are not used for transporting goods. Unlike a port terminal, where containers are transferred between ships, trains, and trucks, an inland depot serves primarily for storing empty containers and preparing them for further use — whether for transport or for sale.
How the Depot Ensures Container Quality
Every container that passes through a professional depot is registered, inspected, and repaired if necessary. The following are regularly performed:
- Visual inspection of the shell — detection of dents, corrosion, holes
- Leak check — waterproofing and wind resistance test
- Door and seal check — functionality of hinges, locks, rubber seals
- Floor inspection — condition of the wooden floor, any signs of chemical contamination
- Cleaning — the container is cleaned before sale
It is precisely thanks to these processes that you can be sure the container from the Berlin depot is in the declared condition. HZ Containers cooperates with a proven depot with clearly defined standards — not from an unknown yard without any inspection.
How to Recognize a Quality Container Depot
When choosing a supplier of a used container, the depot plays an essential role. You can recognize a quality depot by several indicators:
- Certifications and connection to major logistics players. The depot in Großbeeren is part of DB Intermodal Services, which means it meets the strict standards of the Deutsche Bahn group.
- Regular maintenance and on-site container repairs. A professional depot has its own service team that performs repairs according to international IICL standards.
- Transparent records. Every container has its own identification number, by which its history can be traced.
- Good transport accessibility. GVZ Großbeeren lies directly on the motorway ring road, so container removal is logistically undemanding.
If you come across a seller who refuses to tell you exactly where the container is stored, or does not allow you to inspect it in person, take it as a warning sign.
What Types of Used Containers You Can Find in the Berlin Depot
20ft and 40ft Storage Containers
The most frequently requested category is standard storage (shipping) containers. In the Berlin depot, you will find mainly the following dimensions:
| Container Type | External Dimensions (L × W × H) | Internal Volume | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ (6 m) DV | 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | approx. 33 m³ | Material storage, workshop, construction site facilities |
| 40′ (12 m) DV | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | approx. 67 m³ | Large-capacity storage, conversion to office |
| 40′ (12 m) HC | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.90 m | approx. 76 m³ | Storage of taller items, workshop, housing |
DV (Dry Van) designates the standard height. HC (High Cube) offers a 30 cm higher ceiling, which you will appreciate when storing taller items or when converting to a living space.
High Cube and Special Containers
In addition to standard storage containers, HZ-Containers also offers special types:
- Refrigerated (reefer) containers — ideal for food storage or temperature-sensitive materials. They have built-in insulation.
- Side Door containers — offer easier access to stored material.
- Double Door containers — doors on both ends, suitable for a drive-through storage.
- Open Top containers — with an openable roof for top loading.
Container Condition: Cargo Worthy, AS IS, and One Trip
When buying a used shipping container, you will come across condition designations that significantly affect both the price and the possibilities for further use:
- Cargo Worthy (CW) — the container has passed inspection and is certified for further maritime transport. It has a valid CSC plate, is watertight and structurally in perfect condition. This is the highest quality category of used container.
- Wind and Watertight (WWT) — the container is sealed against wind and water, but may no longer have a valid certification for maritime transport. It is perfectly sufficient for storage purposes.
- AS IS — the container is sold “as is”. It may have minor defects, dents, or rust. The price is significantly lower, suitable for undemanding storage or a construction site cabin.
- One Trip — a practically new container that has made a single voyage from a factory in Asia to Europe. Minimal wear, high price.
Before sale, every container is inspected and its condition is specified in the offer. If you are not sure which condition is the right one for you, the HZ-Containers team will advise you.
Prices of Used Shipping Containers in Berlin
The price of a used container is not fixed — it depends on a whole range of factors. Let’s take a look at everything that goes into the final price.
What Affects the Price of a Used Container
| Factor | Influence on Price |
|---|---|
| Condition (CW vs AS IS) | CW containers are 40–80% more expensive than AS IS |
| Age | Each year of age reduces the price by a few percent |
| Size | 40′ costs about 1.5× as much as 20′, but is more cost-effective in terms of volume |
| Type | Refrigerated, Open Top, and other special types are more expensive |
| Current market situation | Prices fluctuate according to global demand for maritime transport |
In general, prices of shipping containers on the German market are among the most favorable in Europe. Germany is one of the largest importers of goods from Asia, so huge quantities of containers flow in and supply exceeds demand.
How the Purchase and Collection of a Container from the Berlin Depot Works
Reservation and Selection of a Container
The process of buying a used container from the Berlin depot through HZ-Containers is simple:
- Contact HZ-Containers — via web form, e-mail, or phone. Tell us what type and size of container you are looking for.
- You will receive a current offer — including specific pieces that are currently available at the Großbeeren depot. Each container has its own identification number (BIC code) and condition specification.
- Payment and reservation — after selection, you make the payment and the container is reserved in your name. After payment, we send customers a RELEASE (unique code) for picking up the container from the depot.
Collection at the Depot — Practical Information
When picking up, please take into account the following:
- A 20ft container weighs approximately 2.2 tons. For its transport, you need a truck with a load capacity of at least 3.5 tons (e.g. a larger van with a trailer, flatbed, or hydraulic arm).
- A 40ft container weighs approximately 3.8 tons. A tractor unit with a semi-trailer or a crane vehicle is required here — a regular car with a trailer is not enough.
- The depot’s working hours are standardly Monday to Friday, typically 7:00–18:00. Weekend collection must be arranged in advance.
- To pick up, you need a proof of purchase, which will be issued to you by HZ-Containers.
Important notice:
HZ-Containers only sells containers, it does not rent them. The customer arranges the transport of the container from the depot themselves or through a contracted carrier.
Is it Possible to Transport a Container from the Berlin Depot Abroad?
Yes. Many HZ-Containers customers come from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and other surrounding countries. Transport of a container from Berlin to these destinations is commonly feasible. You have two options:
- Self-transport — you come to the depot with a suitable vehicle and take the container away yourself. This option is the cheapest if you have a sufficiently powerful vehicle available.
- Contracted carrier — you can arrange a carrier who will pick up the container from the depot and deliver it to your address.
For customers from the Czech Republic: the Prague–Großbeeren route measures approximately 350 km and runs along quality motorways. When using your own vehicle, transport costs are in the range of fuel and tolls.
Why Buy a Used Container from the Berlin Depot Through HZ-Containers
There are several reasons. The Berlin depot offers a combination that is hard to find elsewhere: the professional background of DB Intermodal Services, a strategic location in the heart of Europe, and the possibility of personal collection without additional transport costs.
Containers stored in Großbeeren are under constant supervision, registered, and inspected before sale. You can choose from a wide range of sizes, types, and price categories. HZ-Containers has been operating on the European container market for a long time and cooperates with proven depots across the continent — thanks to this, it can offer a fair price and reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Difference Between a Cargo Worthy and an AS IS Container?
A Cargo Worthy container (CW) is certified for maritime transport, has a valid CSC plate, is watertight, and structurally in perfect condition. AS IS is sold in its current condition without warranty — it may have dents, rusty spots, or minor leaks. CW is suitable for demanding storage as well as conversions, AS IS for undemanding purposes at a lower price.
Does HZ-Containers Also Offer Container Rental in Berlin?
No, HZ-Containers specializes exclusively in the sale of used and new shipping containers. We do not offer rentals. If you want to own a container long-term and use it for storage, a workshop, or conversion, buying is more advantageous for you than paying rent repeatedly.
How Soon is the Container Ready for Pickup?
After payment confirmation and selection of a specific piece, the container is usually ready for pickup within a few days. It depends only on the depot’s working hours and your arrangement of a specific date.
Can I Also Buy a Refrigerated (Reefer) Container from the Berlin Depot?
Yes, refrigerated containers (reefer) are among the special types that HZ-Containers offers. However, their availability at a specific depot varies. For the current offer, contact us — we will check whether a refrigerated container is currently available in Großbeeren.
How Do I Recognize a Quality Used Container Depot?
A quality depot has certification and is connected to major logistics players (e.g. DB Intermodal), performs regular maintenance and repairs according to IICL standards, maintains transparent records for each container, and allows personal inspection. Avoid sellers who refuse to disclose the depot address or do not allow a personal visit.
Is it Possible to Transport a Container from the Berlin Depot to the Czech Republic?
Yes. As described in detail in the previous section, Großbeeren is approximately 350 km from Prague. You can use transport through a carrier recommended by us. The transport price is calculated individually according to the container size and destination.
Mannheim, Germany 
WITHOUT SHIPPING 
