Duisburg – Germany container depot
Looking for used shipping containers in Germany at a fair price? Duisburg is one of the most accessible locations in all of Europe for Czech customers. HZ-Containers offers used shipping containers exclusively for sale directly from the container depot at this key European port. No rentals – only direct sales with the option of immediate pickup.
Why buy shipping containers right in Duisburg
Duisburg is not just any city. It is located in the heart of the industrial Ruhr area and boasts the title of the largest inland port in the world. Every year, 3.6 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) flow through here, making it the absolute leader among inland container transshipment facilities in all of Europe.
What does that mean for you as a buyer? Simply put – the enormous volume of containers passing through the port creates a natural market. Containers accumulate here, are transshipped, and many of them end up for sale as used units after completing their transport function. Thanks to this, the prices of used shipping containers in Duisburg are competitive and the selection is broad.
Duisburg as the largest inland port in the world
The port area stretches along 40 kilometers of the Rhine riverbanks and includes 21 port basins. Approximately 250 companies operate here, employing around 36,000 people – that is 11% of all jobs in the entire city. Duisport, as the port authority is called, functions as a full-fledged logistics partner for all of Central Europe.
Trimodal connection – water, rail, road
One of the greatest advantages of Duisburg is its trimodal connection. Containers flow in here along the Rhine from the seaports of Rotterdam and Antwerp, by rail from all of Europe and from China (30% of all freight trains between China and Europe pass right through Duisburg), and of course by highways – A3, A40, A42, and A59 form a dense network directly connected to the port. For Czech customers, it is key that the journey from Duisburg to Prague measures approximately 700 kilometers and runs along quality German and Czech highways.
| Distance from Duisburg | Kilometers | Approximate driving time by truck |
|---|---|---|
| Prague | 700 km | 7–8 hours |
| Brno | 880 km | 9–10 hours |
| Plzeň | 620 km | 6–7 hours |
| Ostrava | 960 km | 10–11 hours |
Container depot – how it works and how to choose the right one
A container depot is a specialized area designed for the storage and transshipment of shipping containers. It is not a warehouse in the classical sense – it is a secured, reinforced area where containers are stacked in layers and wait for further use. HZ-Containers has the option in Duisburg to sell shipping containers stored right in such a professional depot. We do not rent containers from here – we only sell them. You then arrange your own transport.
What is a container depot
A depot functions as a transshipment point. Containers arrive here after completing their transport mission – for example, after unloading goods from a seagoing vessel that traveled by train from Rotterdam to Duisburg. Instead of the empty container being sent back to Asia, it is offered for sale. This is precisely the model HZ-Containers works with – and for you it means access to proven used containers at a fair price.
How to recognize a quality depot
When choosing a depot, it is worth watching several indicators. A quality container depot has certified processes, a reinforced and drained surface, security against theft, and experienced personnel who handle containers with care. Opening hours are also important – standard working days from morning to afternoon, sometimes with the option of extended pickup by arrangement. Last but not least, watch the accessibility for trucks – the depot must allow trouble-free access for a truck with a semi-trailer.
What types of used shipping containers we offer in Duisburg
In the container depot in Duisburg, you will find a wide range of used shipping containers. Each type is suitable for different purposes and has its specific dimensions. Below we provide an overview of the most common types you will encounter with us. The exact current offering with specific units is always located in the lower part of this page – there you will find individual containers with parameters, photos, and prices.
Most sought-after sizes – 20ft and 40ft
The two most widespread formats form the backbone of the offering. A 20-foot container (approximately 6 meters) is universal – it is suitable as a warehouse, construction cabin, workshop, or as a basis for conversion into a living space. A 40-foot container (12 meters) provides double the volume and is ideal for larger projects. In the High Cube (HC) variant, you get an additional 30 cm in height, which is appreciated by anyone who needs to store taller items or plans an internal superstructure.
Special types of containers
In addition to classic dry containers, the offering often includes refrigerated (reefer) containers for transporting goods requiring constant temperature, open top containers with an openable roof for oversized cargo, or flat rack containers with fold-down side panels. For smaller needs, smaller 10-foot variants are also available.
| Container type | Length (m) | Width (m) | Height (m) | Volume (m³) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft standard | 3.0 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 19 | Small storage, garden house |
| 20ft standard | 6.06 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 33.2 | Universal storage, workshop |
| 20ft High Cube | 6.06 | 2.44 | 2.90 | 37.4 | Taller storage spaces |
| 40ft standard | 12.19 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 67.7 | High-capacity storage, conversion |
| 40ft High Cube | 12.19 | 2.44 | 2.90 | 76.3 | Highest-volume variant |
How much do used shipping containers cost – main factors
The price of a used shipping container is not fixed. It varies depending on several key factors. Understanding these factors will help you navigate the offering and choose the container with the best price-to-utility ratio.
Factors influencing price
The age of the container plays a crucial role – the newer the unit, the higher the price. The condition of the body determines whether the container still meets certification for maritime transport or serves only as storage. Size and type of course also matter – a 40-foot High Cube costs more than a basic 20-foot. And you must also factor in the depot location: in Duisburg, prices are more favorable than, for example, at inland depots far from ports, because containers flow here in large volumes and the costs of their further transfer are eliminated.
Price categories by condition
Used containers are typically divided into several quality classes. Cargo Worthy (CW) means the container has a valid CSC certification and can continue to be used for international maritime transport – it is usually the most expensive. AS IS means the container is sold in whatever condition it is currently in – it may have cosmetic defects, minor rust, but is structurally still functional, and therefore is the most affordable. Between them, there is also a category of renovated or refurbished containers.
Specific prices of currently available containers at the depot in Duisburg can be found in the offering below on this page. Each listing includes real photos and a detailed condition description.
How the purchase and transport of a container from the depot in Duisburg works
Buying a shipping container from Germany is simpler than you might think. HZ-Containers offers used shipping containers exclusively for sale – we do not rent them. The buyer arranges transport on their own. Here is the exact step-by-step procedure.
Step by step – from order to pickup
- Selecting a container – Browse the current offering below on the page. Each container has its own description, photos, and price.
- Order online – After selecting, send your order through our website. You will immediately receive a confirmation with the details.
- Payment – After paying the invoice, the container is reserved in your name.
- Depot address – You will receive the exact address of the depot in Duisburg by email, including contact details and opening hours.
- Pickup – You arrive at the depot (in person or your carrier), report your reservation number, and the container will be loaded onto your vehicle.
Transporting the container to the Czech Republic
You have several options. If you have your own truck with a semi-trailer or hydraulic arm, you can pick up the container yourself. The second option is to hire a transport company that specializes in container transport – there are many operating in both Germany and the Czech Republic. The transport price depends on the distance, current fuel prices, and tolls. For orientation: the Duisburg–Prague route measures approximately 700 km and takes 7–8 hours of driving.
| Transport method | Advantages | Approximate price |
|---|---|---|
| Own transport | No third-party fees, flexibility | Only fuel and tolls |
| Hired transport | Professional loading, insurance | According to the carrier, usually from 500 € |
| Combination of multiple containers | Lower price per unit | Advantageous when buying 2+ units |
How to recognize a quality used container before purchase
You are buying a used shipping container and want to be sure that you are investing in a quality unit? Focus on several key points that are decisive in evaluation.
- Roof – Check whether it is not sagging, punctured, or significantly rusted. The roof is the most stressed part.
- Floor – The wooden floor must be solid, without rot, and without signs of chemical damage.
- Door seals – Rubber seals around the doors keep the interior dry. Cracked or missing seals mean a risk of water leaks.
- Corners and corner castings – The corners bear the entire weight during handling. They must be undamaged, without cracks.
- Overall corrosion – Light surface rust is normal on a used container. Deep corrosion that has penetrated through the sheet metal already means a problem.
HZ-Containers inspects every container before listing it in the offering and describes its condition honestly. If you are unsure, contact us – we will be happy to advise you on your selection.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a CW and AS IS container?
CW (Cargo Worthy) has a valid CSC certification for international transport – it is in better structural and visual condition. AS IS is sold as it stands – it may have cosmetic defects, but it is fully functional for storage purposes and significantly more affordable.
How much does it cost to transport a container from Duisburg to the Czech Republic?
The transport price depends on the hired carrier, distance, and current fuel prices. For the Duisburg–Prague route, expect approximately 500 € and up. The carrier will provide you with an exact quote based on the specific delivery address.
Do you also offer new shipping containers in Duisburg?
Yes, in addition to used containers, completely new (one-trip) containers can also be ordered in Duisburg. Their availability and price will be communicated to you on request. However, we usually recommend used containers – they offer the best price-to-utility ratio.
How long does it take until the container is ready for pickup?
After the order is paid, the container is usually ready for pickup within 5-7 days. It only depends on the depot’s opening hours, which is standardly Monday to Friday.
Is it possible to send a container from Duisburg by train or ship?
Yes, the port of Duisburg is a trimodal hub – the container can be sent by rail or by water. However, for individual units, rail and water transport is economically and logistically more demanding. For individuals, we recommend road transport as the most flexible solution.
How do I know I am buying a quality used container?
Check the roof (whether it is not sagging or punctured), the floor (solid, without rot), door seals (undamaged), corner castings (without cracks), and the overall degree of corrosion. In HZ-Containers’ offering, you will find a detailed description and real photos of every unit – we hide nothing.
Duisburg, Germany 
WITHOUT SHIPPING 
