HZ CONTAINERS – the largest seller of spare parts and shipping containers
HZ CONTAINERS is a leading Czech seller and lessor of shipping containers, which offers not only a wide portfolio of new and used containers, but also a comprehensive range of spare parts and professional consulting. Thanks to long‑term experience and extensive stock, HZ CONTAINERS is a market leader, whether it concerns standard transport containers, specialized types, or custom solutions. It is a partner for logistics companies, construction firms, industrial enterprises and private clients interested in innovative use of containers – from storage to modular architecture.
This glossary expands basic knowledge about shipping containers, their typology, construction, legislative framework, modern trends and key spare parts. Its goal is to support informed decision‑making for every interested party and container user.
The Fundamental Unit of Global Trade – What Is a Shipping Container?
Definition and Importance of Standardization
A shipping container is a standardized transport unit (usually made of steel), designed for efficient intermodal transport of goods by sea, rail and road. A key role is played by standardization of dimensions, construction and strength parameters according to the international standard ISO 668 and related norms (e.g. ISO 1161 – corner castings).
Why is standardization critical?
- Compatibility: Containers can be easily loaded, stacked and transferred between different modes of transport without handling the cargo itself.
- Safety: All containers must meet strength limits for stacking and loading.
- Efficiency: Minimisation of logistics and handling costs, fast transshipment.
- Global use: ISO containers account for over 97 % of the world market.
Table of basic ISO dimensions (according to ISO 668):
| Container type | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Internal length (mm) | Internal width (mm) | Internal height (mm) | Volume (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ Standard | 6 058 | 2 438 | 2 591 | 5 898 | 2 352 | 2 393 | 33.1 |
| 40′ Standard | 12 192 | 2 438 | 2 591 | 12 032 | 2 352 | 2 393 | 67.7 |
| 40′ High Cube | 12 192 | 2 438 | 2 896 | 12 032 | 2 352 | 2 698 | 76.4 |
| 45′ High Cube | 13 716 | 2 438 | 2 896 | 13 556 | 2 352 | 2 698 | 86.0 |
Source: ISO 668, HZ CONTAINERS
Construction and Materials: The Secret of Durability
Modern shipping containers are built for maximum service life and for extreme conditions.
Corten (weathering) steel – key material
- Composition: Alloyed steel with copper, chromium, nickel and phosphorus.
- Function: When exposed to weather, a stable patina layer forms on the surface, protecting against deeper corrosion.
- Advantages: No need for regular painting, long service life (25–40 years), ecological savings on maintenance costs.
- Use: All main parts of the container – walls, roof, frame.
Container construction diagram
- Main frame: Longitudinal and transverse beams (robust welded frame of steel).
- Corner castings: 8 reinforced steel castings with precisely defined holes for handling, stacking and joining.
- Walls and roof: Profiled (corrugated) Corten steel sheet for higher strength and puncture resistance.
- Floor: Multi‑layer plywood (usually tropical wood/bamboo), impregnated against pests, capable of bearing forklift loads.
- Doors: Double‑leaf, fully sealed, with massive locking system.
Static and dynamic resistance
- Stacking: Containers normally withstand stacking in 7–9 layers (static load of the bottom container exceeds 190 000 kg).
- Dynamic loading: Construction is tested for vibration, shocks and frequencies during sea and rail transport.
Container Typology – The Right Solution for Every Cargo
HZ CONTAINERS offers a complete range of container types and sizes. The proper choice depends on cargo characteristics, logistics requirements and stacking possibilities.
Most common container types and their specifications
| Container type | Common dimensions | Typical use | Specifics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Container (DC) | 20′, 40′ | Dry goods, industrial products | Most common type |
| High Cube (HC) | 40′, 45′ | Light bulky cargo, storage | About 30 cm higher than DC |
| Reefer Container | 20′, 40′ | Food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals | Cooling unit, insulation |
| Open Top | 20′, 40′ | Oversized goods, machinery | Removable tarpaulin |
| Flat Rack | 20′, 40′ | Vehicles, vessels, steel structures | No side walls or roof |
| Tank Container | 20′ | Liquids, gases, chemicals | Steel tank within a frame |
Additional container types:
- Side Door – side doors for easier loading.
- Double Door – double‑leaf doors on both sides.
- Palet Wide – widened width for European pallets.
- Mini and Micro containers – lengths 8′, 10′, 16′ for smaller volumes.
Overview of dimensions and volumes (selection)
| Type | Length (m) | Width (m) | Height (m) | Internal volume (m³) | Max. payload (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ DC | 6.06 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 33.1 | 28 200 |
| 40′ DC | 12.19 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 67.7 | 26 800 |
| 40′ HC | 12.19 | 2.44 | 2.89 | 76.4 | 26 600 |
| 45′ HC | 13.72 | 2.44 | 2.89 | 86.0 | 29 500 |
(More details in the full HZ CONTAINERS catalogue)
Anatomy of a Container and the Importance of Spare Parts
Proper maintenance and timely replacement of components significantly affect the service life, safety and economic value of a container.
Key container components
| Component | Function and importance | Material | Common faults / maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corner castings | Handling, stacking, joining | Corten steel | Corrosion, deformation |
| Locking system | Securing doors, watertightness | Steel | Wear, rusted mechanism |
| Door seals | Protection against water, dust | Rubber, elastomer | Ageing, cracks |
| Floor | Load bearing, moisture resistance | Plywood, bamboo | Breakage, pest infestation |
| Walls, roof | Structural strength, cargo protection | Corten steel | Corrosion, dents |
| CSC plate | Certification, technical passport | Stainless steel | Out‑of‑date, damaged |
| Hinges, handles, locks | Opening and closing doors | Steel | Rusted, worn |
| Refrigeration unit | Temperature maintenance (reefers) | Composites, metal | Electronic failures |
Importance of spare parts:
- Ensuring safety and watertightness.
- Meeting legislative and transport requirements (e.g., CSC certification).
- Extending service life and preserving container value.
- Allowing quick repairs and minimizing downtime in logistics.
HZ CONTAINERS offers a complete range of parts – from corner castings, locks and seals to floor components and specialised items for refrigerated or tank containers.
Legal and Regulatory Framework – Key Aspects for Container Use
Placing a Container in the Czech Republic – building permit, zoning plan, obligations
When is a building permit required?
- Permanent placement on a plot (e.g., warehouse, workshop, residential container): always requires compliance with the zoning plan and usually a building permit or a building notice.
- Temporary placement (construction site, event): often a notice is sufficient, but always verify with the local building authority.
- Residential containers: always classified as a building – permit and project documentation are mandatory for shipping container homes and container houses
Main legal steps
- Check the municipal zoning plan – is the type of structure allowed?
- Building permit/notice – according to purpose, size and permanence.
- Communication with authorities – precise documentation, project and compliance with safety and fire norms.
- Specifics for protected areas, heritage zones, nature reserves, etc.
Key legislative updates (2024+)
- New building law defines containers more clearly as buildings or products serving a building function.
- Requirement for structural, fire‑safety and hygiene assessments.
- Even mobile and temporary structures may require permits (always consult the authority).
Customs and transport regulations
- Containers are subject to customs formalities when imported/exported outside the EU.
- Proper labeling, documentation (e.g., CMR, Bill of Lading) and compliance with safety and transport standards are required.
Shipping Container Market and Future Trends
Key trends 2024+
Digitalisation and smart containers
- IoT integration: Sensors for real‑time tracking of location, temperature, humidity and vibrations.
- Remote monitoring: Reduces losses, increases cargo safety, enables predictive maintenance.
Sustainability and ecology
- Recycling and repurposing: Secondary uses of containers (architecture, storage, modules).
- Lighter, greener materials: Rise of bamboo and composite floors, lower carbon footprint.
- Emission reduction: Digital transport documents, eco‑friendly transport corridors.
Blockchain and digital documentation
- Security and transparency: Storing transport records and contracts on blockchain.
- Process acceleration: Elimination of paper documents, simplification of customs procedures.
Market development
- In 2024 global container volume exceeded 28 million TEU, driven by e‑commerce and logistics automation.
- In the Czech Republic demand for residential (container homes, container houses), storage and modular container solutions is growing.
Czech Republic, Vysoké Mýto 
FREE SHIPPING 
Other container news...
Hörmann garage doors as a great addition to a shipping container
Hörmann garage doors as an addition to a shipping container are a comprehensive solution that brings users maximum comfort, safety and aesthetic level. Their installation is an investment in the long-term value, functionality and representative appearance of the container space. The combination of the robustness of the container and the top technology of Hörmann is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to get the most out of their container.
What are the widths of a shipping container
The width of a shipping container – 2.438 m – is one of the pillars of global logistics. Thanks to its standardized size, it is possible to transport goods across continents efficiently, safely and without any problems, stack containers high and optimize handling. When choosing a container, it is necessary to take into account not only the width, but also the length, height, type (standard vs. High Cube) and any special requirements – for example, Pallet Wide or Reefer.
What are the tolerances for unevenness of a shipping container?
Shipping container unevenness tolerances are the basis for safe, efficient and standardized transportation and storage. Each container must meet precisely defined limits for deformation, dents and structural damage. These limits protect not only the value of the cargo, but also the lives of logistics workers and the stability of the entire logistics chain. Keeping containers within tolerances is an investment in the safety, longevity and reliability of your transportation solutions.
Side opening container for rent
A side-opening container for rent from HZ KONTEJNERY s.r.o. is a technically advanced, versatile and highly accessible storage space, available without the need for ownership and with complete service. It is the ideal choice for companies and individuals who need to quickly and flexibly solve storage, transportation or special projects without investment costs and maintenance worries.