Cheapest 20ft shipping container – used market, prices
Demand for shipping containers in the Czech Republic has been growing long-term – whether for storing tools, building materials, seasonal equipment, or as a base for conversion into a workshop or living space. The most frequently sought variant is the 20ft shipping container (6 m), which offers ample space at reasonable dimensions and a lower purchase price than longer variants. If you are looking for the cheapest route, your eyes automatically turn to used market offers. However, this is precisely where the most pitfalls hide – from suspiciously low prices without VAT to outright fraud. This guide will show you what prices to realistically expect, where to look, what to watch out for, and how not to get scammed.
How Much Does a 20ft Shipping Container Cost on the Used Market? – 2025 Price Overview
The price of a used 20ft container depends primarily on its condition, age, and quality category. While price ranges may look wide at first glance, the differences have clear justification. The following table summarizes current price levels on the Czech market.
| Container Category | Condition | Price without VAT | Price with VAT (21%) | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AS IS / decommissioned | Visible corrosion, dents, may not be 100% watertight | 33,000 – 40,000 Kč | 40,000 – 48,400 Kč | Rough construction site storage, waste storage |
| Cargo Worthy (CW) | Dry, watertight, lightly worn, valid CSC plate | 40,000 – 55,000 Kč | 48,400 – 66,550 Kč | Storage of tools, materials, equipment; suitable for transport |
| One-trip (IICL6) | Almost new, no corrosion, visually clean | 60,000 – 75,000 Kč | 72,600 – 90,750 Kč | Storage of more sensitive goods, conversion to a workshop or dwelling |
Warning: Prices on used market portals are often listed without VAT and transport. The actual final price can therefore be up to 30–50% higher than what you see in the ad headline.
Prices by Container Condition – What Really Matters
The cheapest 20ft shipping containers that appear on the used market usually fall into the AS IS category – “as they stand.” These containers have already been decommissioned from maritime transport, and their only purpose is ground-based storage. They show visible signs of wear, dents, surface corrosion in places, and may not be entirely watertight. If you are looking for the lowest price and the container will serve as a rough storage on a construction site, it can be a good choice. However, expect that the lifespan of such a container is limited and any repairs (sealing, coatings) will be on you.
One step higher are Cargo Worthy containers. These have a valid CSC plate, are watertight, and although they bear signs of use, their construction is fully functional. For most buyers, this represents the best value for money. On the used market, these containers appear in the price range of 40–55 thousand Kč without VAT.
At the opposite end of the spectrum are one-trip containers (IICL6), which have completed only one maritime voyage from Asia. Visually and technically they are almost new, free of corrosion, and with perfectly functioning doors. Their price, however, is substantially higher.
Where to Buy the Cheapest 20ft Shipping Container?
Used Market Portals – Bazoš, Sbazar
The largest concentration of listings for used shipping containers can be found on Bazoš.cz (Home and Garden category) and Sbazar.cz. The advantage is a wide selection from both private individuals and companies and the chance to find a truly favorable price. The disadvantage is zero guarantee – you are buying from an unknown seller and a complaint is virtually impossible.
Current examples from Bazoš (summer 2025):
- 20ft used Cargo Worthy: from 54,000 Kč
- 20ft one-trip: from 64,500 Kč
- Older used 20ft: from 30,000 Kč (condition must be verified)
Warning: According to the experience of specialized dealers, fraudulent listings appear on used market portals virtually daily. Scammers lure with extremely low prices, demand upfront payment to a foreign account, and disappear after receiving the money. Never pay the full amount upfront unless you physically see the container or it is delivered to you by a verified carrier.
Specialized Dealers – HZ Containers
Companies specializing in the sale of shipping containers usually have slightly higher prices than private advertisers, but they offer a condition guarantee, transparent pricing including VAT, and the option of transport. At HZ Containers, prices for used 20ft containers range from 33,500 Kč to 69,500 Kč without VAT.
Comparison of Purchasing Channels
| Criterion | Used Market Portals | Specialized Dealers |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower (30,000–65,000 Kč) | Slightly higher (33,500–75,000 Kč) |
| Condition Guarantee | None | Yes, including photo documentation |
| VAT | Often not listed or misleading | Transparently stated |
| Transport | Almost never included, must be arranged separately | Often included with larger orders, otherwise for a fee |
| Risk of Fraud | High | Minimal (verified company with a history) |
| Complaints | Virtually impossible | Standard per the Civil Code |
What to Watch Out for When Buying a Used Container from the Market?
How to Recognize Container Fraud
Fraud in the sale of shipping containers has a recurring scenario in the Czech Republic. Here are the main warning signs:
- Suspiciously low price – if someone offers a 20ft container for 15,000–25,000 Kč including transport, it is almost certainly fraud. The realistic lower limit is around 30,000 Kč without VAT and without transport.
- Missing seller history – an account on Bazoš created just a few days ago, with no other listings, no reviews.
- Upfront payment request – especially to a foreign account (often Polish, Romanian, or Bulgarian).
- Poor Czech in communication – machine-translated messages, incomprehensible wording.
- Company does not exist in the commercial register – if the seller acts as a company, verify the IČO at justice.cz.
According to the experience of HZ Containers, 2–4 defrauded customers contact the company weekly, having fallen for scammers on used market portals and lost tens of thousands of crowns.
Inspecting the Container Before Purchase
If you have the opportunity to physically inspect the container before purchase, focus on:
- Roof tightness – check whether it leaks inside. Even a small leak can mean stored items will go moldy.
- Floor condition – the wooden floor should not be rotten, decayed, or infested with pests. Floor replacement is costly.
- Door functionality – both wings must open and close without excessive force. Check the gasket.
- Corrosion – surface rust is common on used containers. The problem is deep corrosion, especially in the corners and on the bottom frame.
- Overall geometry – the container should stand straight, without significant deformations.
Documentation and CSC Plate
Every shipping container that is intended for transport must have a valid CSC plate (Convention for Safe Containers). This confirms that the container meets safety standards for transport. Used market containers intended only for storage do not have to have a CSC plate – but if the container has one, it is a sign of better technical condition.
How Much Does Transport of a 20ft Shipping Container Cost?
Transport is often an overlooked but essential item in the total budget. A container cannot be transported by a regular car – you need a vehicle with a hydraulic arm (HR) or a container carrier.
| Distance (from depot) | Approximate Transport Price | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 30 km | 2,500 – 4,000 Kč | Minimum trip charge |
| 30–100 km | 4,000 – 8,000 Kč | Common distance when buying from a larger city |
| 100–200 km | 8,000 – 14,000 Kč | When buying from another region |
| Over 200 km | 14,000 – 25,000 Kč | Must consider whether it is worth it |
The transport price is usually calculated as a per-kilometer rate (35–50 Kč/km) plus a handling fee for unloading (1,000–2,000 Kč). The round trip is counted. Some specialized dealers offer free transport with an order of two or more containers, or when buying a 40ft container and larger.
Total Costs – Everything You Must Include
The price of the container itself is only the beginning. For a realistic budget, count on the following items:
| Item | Cheapest Variant (AS IS) | Standard Variant (Cargo Worthy) | Premium Variant (IICL6) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Container without VAT | 33,500 Kč | 45,000 Kč | 65,000 Kč |
| VAT 21% | +7,035 Kč | +9,450 Kč | +13,650 Kč |
| Transport (100 km) | +7,000 Kč | +7,000 Kč | +7,000 Kč |
| Total | 47,535 Kč | 61,450 Kč | 85,650 Kč |
Other optional costs include:
- Terrain preparation / foundation slab – concrete footings, reinforced area (2,000–8,000 Kč)
- Coating / painting – when used outdoors for a longer lifespan (3,000–8,000 Kč)
- Electrical installation – if you plan to use the container as a workshop (5,000–15,000 Kč)
- Racks and interior equipment – as needed
Quality of Shipping Containers – What Categories Exist?
To orient yourself when buying, it is good to understand the quality categories used for shipping containers:
AS IS (decommissioned containers)
The lowest category. Containers have been decommissioned from maritime transport and are sold “as is.” They may have dents, corrosion, leaks. Price: 33,000–40,000 Kč without VAT. Suitable only as rough storage. No guarantee of watertightness.
Cargo Worthy (CW)
Containers with a valid CSC plate, watertight, and suitable for transport. They show visible signs of use but are structurally sound. Price: 40,000–55,000 Kč without VAT. The most common choice for storage – the best value for money.
IICL / One-trip (IICL6)
Almost new containers that have completed one maritime voyage. No corrosion, clean, excellent technical condition. Price: 60,000–75,000 Kč without VAT. Suitable for more demanding use, conversion into a dwelling or workshop, where visual condition matters.
IICL5 / Multiple Trips
Containers after several maritime voyages, still in very good condition with minimal wear. Price: 50,000–65,000 Kč without VAT. A middle ground between Cargo Worthy and IICL6.
Conclusion – How to Buy the Cheapest 20ft Container Without Regret
You can get the cheapest 20ft shipping container on the used market for around 30,000–35,000 Kč (without VAT and transport). The real on-site price, however, always climbs higher – after accounting for VAT and transport, expect at least 45,000–50,000 Kč. If you are looking for a solid container that will serve you for years, the Cargo Worthy variant from a specialized dealer will cost you 55,000–65,000 Kč including VAT and transport.
Key Recommendations:
- Ignore suspiciously low prices (below 30,000 Kč including transport) – it is almost certainly fraud.
- Verify the seller – the company must be in the commercial register, ideally with a history and reviews.
- Never pay the full amount upfront unless you see the container with your own eyes.
- Always include VAT and transport in your budget – they make up 20–40% of the final price.
- With specialized dealers you get a condition guarantee, which for the cheapest used market pieces is worth more than taking a risk.
FAQ
What Is the Lowest Real Price of a 20ft Shipping Container in the Czech Republic?
The lowest real price of a used 20ft container is around 30,000–33,500 Kč without VAT. This is the AS IS category – a decommissioned container with visible wear, intended only for storage. After including VAT and transport, you reach around 45,000 Kč.
Is It Worth Buying a Shipping Container from the Used Market or from a Company?
It depends on your priorities. The used market offers a potentially lower price but carries a high risk of fraud and zero guarantee. A company is more expensive, but you get verified condition, transparent pricing with VAT, transport options, and the ability to make a complaint. For most buyers, purchasing from a specialized dealer is the safer choice.
How Much Does Transport of a 20ft Container Cost for 100 km?
Approximately 7,000–10,000 Kč including unloading with a hydraulic arm. The price depends on the specific distance and accessibility of the site. Some dealers offer free transport with an order of two or more containers.
What Does Cargo Worthy Mean for a Shipping Container?
Cargo Worthy (CW) means that the container has a valid CSC plate, is watertight, structurally sound, and suitable for maritime transport. For storage purposes, it is the most frequently recommended category – it offers the certainty that the container does not leak and the doors function properly.
How Can I Tell if a Container Listing Is Fraudulent?
Main warning signs: a price significantly below market level (under 25,000 Kč including transport), an upfront payment request to a foreign account, a seller without history and reviews, poor Czech, a non-existent company in the commercial register.
Is a 20ft or 40ft Shipping Container Better?
A 20ft container (6 × 2.4 × 2.6 m) is more compact, easier to place on smaller plots, and cheaper. A 40ft container (12 × 2.4 × 2.6 m) offers double the space for approximately 50–70% higher price. For most domestic and construction purposes, the 20ft variant is sufficient.
Do I Need a Building Permit to Place a Container on My Land?
A standalone shipping container used as storage usually does not require a building permit, provided it is not permanently attached to the ground and is not used as a dwelling. However, it is always worth checking the specific conditions with the local building authority – rules may differ by municipality.
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