Großbeeren – German container depot
Looking for a decommissioned shipping container at a fair price and want to inspect it in person before buying? Then you’ve come to the right place. HZ-Containers sells decommissioned maritime containers from the depot in Großbeeren – one of the largest logistics centers in Europe, just 5 kilometers from the Berlin border. On this page, you’ll learn everything about the depot itself, the types of containers we offer, how to identify a quality unit, and how the pickup process works. The specific container offering for this depot can be found below.
Where exactly is the depot in Großbeeren located
Großbeeren is a municipality in the Teltow-Fläming district in the federal state of Brandenburg. For customers from all over Central Europe, this location is synonymous with logistics at the highest level. The depot where HZ-Containers stores its containers is part of the extensive GVZ Berlin Süd logistics complex.
GVZ Berlin Süd – one of the largest logistics parks in Europe
GVZ (Güterverkehrszentrum) Berlin Süd Großbeeren covers an area of approximately 400 hectares. More than 80 companies operate here – from ALDI and FedEx to Rhenus and NORDFROST – and it employs over 10,000 people. In the European GVZ ranking, this complex took fifth place in 2020, making it the most powerful logistics center in eastern Germany.
The heart of the complex is a container terminal for combined transport. It handles up to 100,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) per year, has two gantry cranes, 700 meters of rail tracks, and a wide access road for trucks. In practice, this means hundreds of containers are turned around here every week, and handling them is among the most efficient in the entire region.
| Terminal parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GVZ area | 400 ha (gross area) |
| Terminal capacity | 100,000 TEU per year |
| Number of gantry cranes | 2 |
| Track length | 700 m |
| Number of companies on site | 80+ |
| Number of employees | 10,000+ |
Transport accessibility and highway connections
Großbeeren is located right next to the A10 highway (Berliner Ring) – a key transport artery that encircles all of Berlin. From the A10, you can take exit 6 (Rangsdorf) or exit 4 (Ludwigsfelde-Ost) and be there in a few minutes. The B101 road also runs directly past the GVZ, offering an alternative access route.
For customers from the Czech Republic, the route is straightforward: from Prague via the D8/E55 highway to Dresden, then A13 toward Berlin, and finally A10 to the south. The total distance from Prague is approximately 350 km, and the journey takes about 3.5 hours. From Brno, it’s roughly 450 km via the D1 highway and through Dresden.
What decommissioned maritime containers we offer from the Großbeeren depot
HZ-Containers specializes in the sale of decommissioned maritime containers in all common sizes and types. The offering changes continuously based on current stock levels, so we always recommend checking the specific listing below. The following overview will help you navigate the options available to you.
Most frequently requested sizes – 10′, 20′ and 40′ containers
The 20-foot container is an absolute classic. With external dimensions of 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m (L × W × H) and an internal volume of approximately 33 m³, it represents an ideal choice for storing tools, materials, or as a basis for a workshop. Its relatively low weight (empty it weighs approximately 2,200 kg) makes handling and transport easier.
The 40-foot container offers double the capacity. External dimensions of 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m and an internal volume of around 67 m³ make it the best-selling variant for companies that need larger storage space. The price per cubic meter is usually more favorable for 40′ containers than for smaller sizes.
The 10-foot container, on the other hand, is a compact solution. It is suitable where space is limited – on smaller construction sites, in gardens, or as a mobile warehouse for small tradesmen. Its smaller dimensions mean easier transport even in places with difficult access.
Special types – High Cube, refrigerated, and storage containers
In addition to standard sizes, we also offer 40-foot High Cube (HC) containers. Their main advantage is the increased height – 2.89 m compared to the standard 2.59 m. This type of container is excellent for conversions into residential units, offices, or workshops, where you’ll appreciate the extra headroom.
For customers who need to store temperature-sensitive goods, decommissioned refrigerated containers are available. They are equipped with insulation and an integrated cooling unit. You can also find decommissioned storage containers, construction containers, and, when available, office or residential containers in our offering. Always check the current offering on this page for specific stock availability.
What to focus on when choosing a decommissioned container
Buying a decommissioned shipping container is an investment for years to come. It’s worth knowing how to identify a quality unit and what to watch out for. The following overview will help you make the right decision – whether you’re buying for the first time or expanding your fleet.
Quality categories of decommissioned containers
Maritime container sellers use three basic categories that indicate the technical condition:
- Cargo Worthy (CW) – the container has passed inspection and has a valid CSC plate (Convention for Safe Containers). It is approved for maritime transport. The floor is solid, the doors seal properly, corrosion is minimal. This is the highest quality among decommissioned containers.
- Wind and Water Tight (WWT) – the container is sealed against wind and water, but it may no longer have a valid CSC certification. Completely sufficient for storage purposes. It may have cosmetic defects – scratched paint, minor dents.
- AS IS – sold in the condition it is in. It may show visible signs of wear, rust, and dents. Suitable for undemanding storage or for DIY enthusiasts who will repair the container themselves.
For regular storage, we recommend the WWT category. For conversions to residential purposes, go for CW or one-trip (new) containers.
How to check the technical condition before buying
At the Großbeeren depot, you can personally inspect every container before buying. During the inspection, focus on four key points:
- Floor condition – the plywood floor is the most common weak point. Look for dark spots, soft areas, signs of rot, or chemical contamination. A healthy floor is hard and evenly colored.
- Door sealing – open and close both door leaves. The rubber gasket must be intact, not torn, and flexible. The doors should close without excessive force.
- Corrosion and rust – surface rust on steel parts is normal for a decommissioned container. A warning sign is deep corrosion, holes in the walls, or rusty spots on critical load-bearing parts (corner posts, roof beams).
- Overall appearance and flatness – walk around the container both outside and inside. The walls and roof should be straight, without significant dents. Check that no rivets or screws are missing.
Picking up a container from the Großbeeren depot – practical information
After completing the order and payment, you will receive from HZ-Containers the exact coordinates of the depot in Großbeeren, the date when the container is ready for pickup, and the contact for the depot staff. The entire process is straightforward – here’s how it works.
How loading works and what you need to arrange
The depot has professional handling equipment, including forklifts with appropriate load capacity. The depot staff will prepare your container for loading – this means moving it to a free handling area, from where your carrier will pick it up. The actual loading onto the transport vehicle is carried out by the depot staff.
What you, as the buyer, must arrange:
- Your own transport – a truck with a hydraulic arm, a flatbed, or a low-loader.
- Arrange the exact arrival time with the depot staff (at least 24 hours in advance).
- Ensure that your transport vehicle has sufficient load capacity for the given container size (an empty 20′ weighs approximately 2.2 t, 40′ HC approximately 3.9 t).
HZ-Containers does not rent containers – it only sells them. If you don’t want to arrange transport yourself, you can order a specialized transport company that focuses on the transport of shipping containers.
Transport options from the depot to you
The most common method of transport is by truck with a hydraulic arm (the so-called “arm”). This vehicle will load, transport, and unload the container at the destination itself. Alternatively, a low-loader can be used – in that case, the depot staff loads the container, and you handle the unloading at the destination yourself (for example, using a mobile crane). For longer routes (e.g., over 500 km), we recommend consulting the truck transport options directly with the carrier.
Advantages of a large logistics depot
Unlike smaller warehouses, where the selection may be limited to just a few units, the depot in Großbeeren consistently has a larger volume of stock. This gives you the opportunity to compare multiple containers of the same type side by side and choose the one with the best price-to-condition ratio.
The second advantage is professional record-keeping. Every container at the Großbeeren depot is labeled, recorded, and regularly inspected. The depot staff knows exactly which unit is where and in what condition. You are not buying from someone who resells containers from a field – you are buying from an organized logistics hub with verified processes.
Comparison with purchasing from smaller warehouses
Smaller sellers often operate with limited handling equipment. This means that loading may take longer or be technically more complicated. In Großbeeren, container handling is daily bread – cranes and forklifts are in operation around the clock.
The strategic location of the depot also saves you time and money on transport. Großbeeren is located right next to the A10 highway, without the need to detour into the center of Berlin or search for a way through industrial zones. Arrival and departure with a loaded container is trouble-free.
Prices of decommissioned maritime containers – what affects the price
The price of a decommissioned shipping container is not fixed – it depends on several factors. When you understand them, you can easily evaluate whether an offer is fair.
Factors affecting the price of a decommissioned container
| Factor | Impact on price |
|---|---|
| Size (10′ vs 20′ vs 40′) | Larger containers are absolutely more expensive, but cheaper per m³ |
| Quality category (CW vs WWT vs AS IS) | CW costs the most, AS IS the least |
| Age of the container | Older units are cheaper, but more worn |
| Type of container (standard vs HC vs refrigerated) | Special types (HC, refrigerated) cost more |
| Current market demand | Prices fluctuate based on supply and demand in the market |
| Depot location | Depots closer to ports may have lower prices, but higher transport costs |
Indicative price range by type and condition
The following range is indicative – the exact price for a specific container is always listed in the current offering on this page:
- Decommissioned 20′ container (WWT): approximately 1,500–2,500 EUR
- Decommissioned 20′ container (CW): approximately 2,500–3,500 EUR
- Decommissioned 40′ container (WWT): approximately 2,000–3,500 EUR
- Decommissioned 40′ HC container (CW): approximately 3,000–4,500 EUR
- Decommissioned 10′ container (WWT): approximately 1,200–2,000 EUR
Prices are quoted excluding VAT and excluding transport. The customer arranges their own transport from the depot.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I have to transport the container from the Großbeeren depot myself?
Yes, the customer arranges their own transport. The depot has equipment for loading (forklifts), but the actual transport to the destination is handled by the buyer. You can hire a specialized transport company that has experience with shipping container transport.
How long does it take until the container is ready for pickup?
After payment of the order, the container is usually available within 2–5 working days. We will confirm the specific date when processing your order. In case of urgent need, contact us – some units can be prepared even sooner.
How do I recognize a quality decommissioned container?
Check the condition of the floor (no rot or soft spots), the sealing of the doors (intact rubber gasket), the degree of corrosion (surface rust is normal, deep corrosion is not), and whether the container has a valid CSC plate. If you’re buying for storage, the WWT category is more than sufficient.
Do you also sell new containers?
Yes, HZ-Containers also offers new (one-trip) containers, which have completed only one maritime voyage and are in almost flawless condition. Their availability at the specific Großbeeren depot is listed in the current offering on this page.
Can a decommissioned container be converted into a residential container?
Yes, decommissioned maritime containers are commonly used for conversions into residential units, garden houses, offices, or cottages. For these purposes, we recommend containers in the CW or one-trip category, where you can be sure of excellent technical condition and minimal corrosion.
What are the dimensions of a standard 20′ and 40′ container?
The 20′ container has external dimensions of 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m (L × W × H), internal dimensions of 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m. The 40′ container has external dimensions of 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m, internal dimensions of 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 m. The 40′ High Cube version is taller – 2.89 m.
Is the depot in Großbeeren easily accessible from the Czech Republic?
Yes, Großbeeren is located south of Berlin right next to the A10 highway (Berliner Ring). The route from the Czech Republic runs along quality highways – from Prague via Dresden via D8 and A13, from Brno via D1, Dresden, and further north. You can complete the entire journey in half a day and avoid driving through the center of Berlin.
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