Žilina – Slovakia Container Depot
HZ-Containers offers used shipping containers directly from the container depot in Žilina. On this page you will find complete information about the depot, types of available containers, prices, condition of individual units, and the pickup procedure. We sell containers – we do not rent them. The customer arranges their own transport from the depot. Žilina is one of the most important logistics hubs in northern Slovakia.
Why buy a used shipping container in Žilina
Žilina as a logistics hub of northern Slovakia
Žilina is located at a strategic crossroads of Central Europe. It is crossed by the D1 motorway, which connects Bratislava with Košice and continues further to Ukraine. From Žilina, it is approximately 50 km to the Czech border (via Horní Lideč or Mosty u Jablunkova) and roughly 35 km to the Polish border. Thanks to this, the depot in Žilina is easily accessible for customers from Moravia, Silesia, and the Polish Podbeskydy region.
The city is also an important railway transshipment point. The Rail Cargo Group container terminal at Závodská cesta 10 handles regular container trains on the Koper (Slovenia) – Žilina and Žilina – Kaliningrad routes. It is precisely the connection to the port of Koper, which is among the fastest-growing container ports in Europe, that ensures a constant supply of used shipping containers to the Žilina depot.
Advantages of the container depot in Žilina
Buying a used shipping container brings significant advantages:
- Lower transport costs. If you are based in northern Moravia, Silesia, or central and northern Slovakia, Žilina is one of the nearest container depots. A shorter distance means a lower price for transport.
- Immediate availability. Containers are physically present at the depot. After completing the order, you can arrange a pickup date often within just a few days.
Depot address: Závodská cesta 10, 012 36 Žilina, Slovakia.
How to choose the right shipping container
By size — 20ft, 40ft, and HC containers
Choosing the size is the first step. The following table shows the dimensions of the three most common types of shipping containers:
| Container type | External length | External width | External height | Internal length | Internal width | Internal height | Volume | Payload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ Standard (DV) | 6.06 m | 2.44 m | 2.59 m | 5.90 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m | 33.1 m³ | ~28 t |
| 40′ Standard (DV) | 12.19 m | 2.44 m | 2.59 m | 12.03 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m | 67.5 m³ | ~28 t |
| 40′ High Cube (HC) | 12.19 m | 2.44 m | 2.89 m | 12.03 m | 2.35 m | 2.69 m | 76.3 m³ | ~28 t |
A 20ft container is the most universal choice for smaller businesses, construction back-up, or storing tools and materials. A 40ft container provides double the floor area and is suitable for larger-scale storage. The High Cube variant offers 30 cm more internal height – ideal for conversions into offices, workshops, or storage of taller items.
By condition — new, near-new (One Trip), used
You will encounter three categories of condition on the market:
- New container – made to order, zero wear, price 50,000–85,000 CZK. Suitable for representative purposes, conversions into residential units, or operations where appearance matters.
- Near-new (One Trip) – a container that has made only one shipping journey from the factory. Minimal signs of use, excellent floor, clean appearance. Price 35,000–65,000 CZK depending on size. Best price/quality ratio.
- Used container – several years in maritime service, visible signs of wear, but fully functional. Price 20,000–55,000 CZK. Ideal for storage, construction site cabins, or garages.
How to recognize a quality used container
- Floor – the wooden plywood must be solid, without soft spots, rot, or a strong chemical smell. Tap it in several places.
- Door seal – open and close both leaves. The rubber gasket around the perimeter must be intact and flexible. Close yourself inside and check if any light is coming through.
- Corrosion – surface rust on the walls is normal and does not affect functionality. Deep corrosion, especially on the corners and bottom frame, is a warning sign.
- CSC plate – every shipping container has a metal plate on the door with the date of the last inspection. A valid plate confirms that the container has passed a safety check.
- Locking mechanism functionality – all four locking mechanisms on the doors must open and close smoothly. Try them manually.
Container Depot Žilina — detailed information
Location and accessibility of the depot
The depot is located in the industrial part of Žilina at Závodská cesta 10, within the container terminal area. From the D1 motorway, take the Žilina-west exit and follow road I/60 to reach the area in approximately 7 minutes. The access road is designed for truck traffic and is passable year-round. For navigation, use the coordinates 49°12′52.5″N 18°44′39.2″E.
In close proximity to the depot there is also a railway siding connected to the Žilina marshalling yard station, which enables the transshipment of containers between the train and the storage area.
Technical facilities and capacity
The terminal has an area of 25,000 m², of which the storage area occupies 20,000 m². The total capacity is 4,500 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units). Handling is ensured by two reach stackers and one empty container stacker. The terminal was modernized in 2016 and meets the standards of international combined transport.
How the container pickup works
The process from order to pickup:
- Choose a container from our current offer (listed below on this page).
- Send an inquiry – by phone or e-mail. We will confirm availability and send a proforma invoice.
- After paying the invoice, we will issue a release document and arrange a pickup date.
- On the agreed day, arrive at the depot with the carrier (or your own vehicle). Present the release document to the depot staff.
- The staff will load the container onto your vehicle using a reach stacker. The entire handling takes approximately 10–15 minutes.
Prices of used shipping containers in Žilina
Indicative price list by type and condition
The following range shows typical prices of used containers in CZK excluding VAT. Exact prices for specific units can be found in the current offer below.
| Container type | AS-IS condition (used) | IICL / One Trip condition |
|---|---|---|
| 20′ Standard | 20,000 – 40,000 CZK | 35,000 – 55,000 CZK |
| 40′ Standard | 30,000 – 55,000 CZK | 55,000 – 85,000 CZK |
| 40′ High Cube (HC) | 35,000 – 60,000 CZK | 60,000 – 95,000 CZK |
| 20′ HC | 30,000 – 50,000 CZK | 45,000 – 65,000 CZK |
The listed prices are indicative and apply for pickup at the Žilina depot without transport.
What affects the price of a used container
The price of a container is determined by several factors:
- Size – 40ft containers cost approximately 30–50% more than 20ft ones, but offer almost double the volume. In terms of price per cubic meter, the 40′ HC is often the most cost-effective.
- Age and number of journeys – the more maritime journeys a container has made, the more worn it is, and the lower the price. Near-new One Trip containers cost 40–70% more than older AS-IS units.
- IICL certification – containers with IICL 5 or IICL 6 certification have passed stricter inspections and are in significantly better condition than unrated units. The price difference can be 10,000–30,000 CZK.
- Market demand – prices of shipping containers fluctuate according to the global situation in maritime transport. In times of container shortage, prices of used units also rise.
Transport of a container from the depot — what you need to know
Transport options
From the depot in Žilina, you have two options for transporting the container:
- Own transport – you need a truck equipped with a hydraulic arm (crane) or a flatbed with sufficient payload. For a 20ft container, a vehicle with a payload of 3.5 t is sufficient; for a 40ft one, a heavier chassis is required (min. 7.5 t).
- Ordering through a carrier – an external transport company will handle loading at the depot and unloading at your site. The price depends on the distance. As a reference: transport of a 20ft container from Žilina to Ostrava costs approximately 8,000–12,000 CZK.
How to prepare a site for container placement
Before the container arrives, check the following:
- Level and reinforced surface – concrete slab, compacted gravel, or asphalt. Soft soil or lawn is not suitable — the container will sink over time.
- Access road for the truck – minimum width 3.5 m, road capacity at least 10 t. A truck with a hydraulic arm needs a space approximately 15–20 m long for unloading.
- Handling space – next to the placement site, there must be a free strip at least 4 m wide for the crane’s stabilizer legs.
- Overhead obstacles – check whether there are any power lines or tree branches above the site. The hydraulic arm lifts the container up to a height of 6 m.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a shipping container and a storage container?
A shipping (ISO) container has standardized dimensions and corner castings (corner eyes) for crane handling, stacking, and international transport. It is made of Corten steel and has CSC certification. A storage container does not have corner castings or certification; it is intended only for static storage in one location and is usually produced in smaller sizes (8′ and 10′). At the Žilina depot, we sell exclusively shipping ISO containers.
How long does it take to process an order and pick up a container?
If the container is in stock and you confirm the order during a working day, you will usually receive the release document within a few days. The pickup date can then be arranged according to your schedule — often the very next working day. The depot has standard operating hours from Monday to Friday 7:00–16:00.
Is it possible to transport a container from the depot in Žilina to the Czech Republic?
Yes, many of our customers are Czech companies from the Moravian-Silesian, Olomouc, and Zlín regions. The cross-border transport itself is provided by a carrier of your choice. We will be happy to advise you on selecting a reliable carrier with experience in container transport.
What does the IICL designation mean for a used container?
IICL (Institute of International Container Lessors) is an international standard for assessing the condition of containers. IICL 5 grade means good condition with minor cosmetic defects. IICL 6 is the highest grade — the container has passed a detailed inspection, is free of defects, and is ready for further maritime transport. Containers without IICL rating are sold as AS-IS.
How much does an empty 20ft shipping container weigh?
An empty 20ft container weighs approximately 2,200–2,400 kg. A 40ft container weighs approximately 3,700–4,000 kg. The High Cube variant is roughly 200 kg heavier due to its taller construction.
Can a container from the depot be used for living or as an office?
Technically yes, but it requires extensive modifications — insulation, electrical installation, installation of windows and doors, and solving ventilation and heating. For conversion, we recommend near-new (One Trip) or IICL 6 containers, which are not affected by corrosion and have not been in contact with chemicals. Standard used AS-IS containers are not suitable for conversion.
What documents will I receive when buying a used container?
With every container sold, you will receive an invoice, a release protocol from the depot, and a proof of ownership. If the container has valid CSC certification, you will also receive a copy of the inspection plate. All documents serve as a basis for accounting and for any later property registration.
Slovakia, Žilina 
WITHOUT SHIPPING 
