Rental of shipping containers
Need to solve storage of materials, tools or goods quickly and reliably, but don’t want to invest hundreds of thousands into buying your own container? Renting shipping containers is today one of the most effective solutions for businesses and individuals alike – whether you’re dealing with seasonal storage, setting up facilities at a construction site, or looking for temporary space during a move. This guide will give you a complete overview: from prices and types of containers, through rental conditions, to a comparison of verified providers. After reading, you’ll know exactly which container to choose, how much you’ll pay for it, and what to watch out for when renting.
What is shipping container rental and who benefits from it
Renting shipping containers means you borrow a full-fledged storage space for a regular monthly rent without the need for a high one-time investment. The container remains the property of the lessor, and you use it for an agreed period – from one month to several years.
When to choose rental and when to buy
This is one of the first questions that prospective customers ask. The answer depends on three key factors: length of use, budget, and flexibility.
Renting pays off when:
- You need a container for less than 18–24 months
- You don’t want to deal with service, maintenance, or disposal after use
- You need flexibility – the option to return the container, exchange it for a larger one, or terminate the rental
- You don’t have the capital for a one-time investment (a new 20′ container costs 60,000 – 90,000 CZK)
Buying pays off when:
- You plan to use the container for more than 2 years
- You want to modify the container (insulation, electrical installation, shelving, heating)
- You’re looking for a long-term storage solution and have the budget for it
Quick approximate calculation: If renting a 20′ container costs 2,800 CZK/month and a new one costs 70,000 CZK, the purchase pays off after approximately 25 months. With longer use, buying is clearly worthwhile.
Who uses rental most often
- Construction companies – temporary storage of tools and materials on construction sites
- E-shops and retailers – seasonal storage of goods before Christmas or seasonal sales
- Households – storing furniture and equipment during renovation or moving
- Farmers – storing fertilizers, seeds, seasonal equipment
- Event agencies – temporary storage for festival and event equipment
Types of shipping containers for rent
Not every container is the same. Choosing the right type will fundamentally affect how well it will serve you. Here’s an overview of what you can rent in the Czech Republic.
Storage container 20′ (6 meters)
The most sought-after type. External dimensions are approximately 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m, internal volume approx. 33 m³. It can easily hold the contents of a garage, the equipment of a smaller apartment, or materials for a smaller construction project. It’s also suitable for the garden as a tool shed.
Storage container 40′ (12 meters)
Double the length compared to the 20′ version. Internal volume approx. 67 m³. Ideal for larger companies, e-shop warehouses, or extensive renovations. Disadvantage: it needs more space for placement and is more expensive to transport.
High Cube (HC) variants
Containers with a height of 2.90 m instead of the standard 2.59 m. They offer about 30 cm more in height, which you’ll appreciate when storing taller items or installing shelving systems. The rental price is only slightly higher than the standard version.
Refrigerated and freezer containers
Special containers with their own cooling unit – they maintain temperatures from +25 °C to −25 °C. Renting a refrigerated container is significantly more expensive (often 5,000 – 10,000 CZK/month), but for food businesses, florists, or pharmaceutical companies, it’s an irreplaceable solution.
Site cabins and office containers
Unlike classic shipping containers, these units are insulated, equipped with windows, doors, electrical installation, heating, and often air conditioning. They serve as mobile offices, worker changing rooms, gatehouses, or rest areas. Rental of a site container (cabin) ranges from 3,500 to 6,000 CZK/month.
Special containers
On the market, you’ll also encounter less common variants: containers with side doors (Side Door), double door (Double Door), ventilated, with built-in shelving, or containers with a ramp for easy drive-in. These special modifications are usually available from larger providers.
Rental price list – how much you’ll pay
The rental price of shipping containers depends on four main factors: size, length of rental, age/condition of the container, and location. The following table summarizes indicative prices from the largest providers on the Czech market (excluding VAT, without transport).
| Container type | 1–3 months (CZK/month) | 4–12 months (CZK/month) | 12+ months (CZK/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ standard | 2,800 – 3,100 | 2,200 – 2,500 | 1,800 – 2,200 |
| 20′ High Cube | 3,100 – 3,400 | 2,500 – 2,900 | 2,000 – 2,500 |
| 40′ standard | 4,800 – 5,600 | 3,800 – 4,600 | 3,000 – 3,600 |
| 40′ High Cube | 5,500 – 6,500 | 4,600 – 5,500 | 3,600 – 4,200 |
| Site cabin | 3,500 – 6,000 | 3,000 – 5,000 | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Refrigerated 20′ | 7,000 – 10,000 | 6,000 – 8,500 | 5,000 – 7,000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary depending on the season and current pricing. For an exact calculation, contact us or review our current price list
What the price includes – and what it doesn’t
The monthly rent itself is only part of the total costs. Add to that:
- Transport and unloading: depending on distance and container size. A vehicle with a hydraulic arm (so-called “crane truck”) will deliver and place the container on site.
- Removal after termination: some providers offer “round-trip” transport at a discounted price.
- Refundable deposit: usually 5,000 – 15,000 CZK, refundable after the rental ends, provided the container is in order.
How to get the cheapest rental
- Long-term rental: the longer, the lower the monthly rate – the difference between 1–3 months and 12+ months can be up to 40%.
- Decommissioned container: arrange an older but still functional container – you’ll save 15–30% compared to a new one.
- Off-season: construction firms have the highest demand from March to October. In winter, you can get a better price.
- Compare total costs: cheaper monthly rent with more expensive transport can ultimately be more expensive than the opposite.
How the rental process works step by step
If you’ve never rented a container before, the process may seem complicated to you. In reality, it’s a few simple steps.
1. Define your need
Before you even start calling providers, clarify:
- What exactly you will store – volume, weight, sensitivity to moisture or temperature
- How long – at least approximately; this will affect the price
- Where the container will stand – you need a hard, level surface; check the access road for a truck
2. Inquiry
Include in your inquiry:
- Required type and size of container
- Expected rental period
- Delivery address
- Whether you need a new container or a decommissioned one will suffice
Within 1–2 business days, you’ll receive a price quote including transport.
3. Contract and payment
After receiving the offer, you’ll sign a rental contract. This typically contains:
- Container identification (type, dimensions, registration number)
- Rental period and notice period
- Monthly rent and due date
- Deposit amount and conditions for its return
- Conditions for transport, assembly, and disassembly
- Tenant obligations (prohibition of unprofessional interventions, obligation to report damage)
Before signing, read the contract carefully, especially the passages on liability for damage and conditions for early termination.
4. Transport and placement
On the day of delivery, the site must be prepared:
- Level, hardened surface (concrete, panels, gravel – not lawn)
- Sufficient space for handling – a vehicle with a hydraulic arm needs space at least twice the container length
- Free access – no low-hanging wires, branches, or narrow passages
The driver will place the container at the designated location. After placement, check that the container stands level and that the doors open without problems.
5. Use and termination of rental
During the rental, you normally use the container. In case of any problem (leaking, damage), contact the provider. Before terminating the rental, empty the container and clean it to a basic extent. The provider will pick up the container and, after inspecting its condition, will return your deposit.
Rental conditions and what to watch out for
When renting shipping containers, there are several critical points that can cause considerable complications out of ignorance.
Placement – legislation and permits
Not every plot of land is suitable for placing a container – not only technically, but also legally:
- Private land: In most cases, you don’t need any permit if the container is temporary and does not serve for permanent residence. Nevertheless, we recommend checking with the building authority – especially if the land is in a heritage zone or protected area.
- Public space: Here you need the owner’s consent (usually the municipality/city) and often a temporary occupation permit. This applies to sidewalks, parking lots, and municipal land.
- Municipal restrictions: Some municipalities have ordinances restricting the placement of containers. Always check this in advance.
Container condition – what to look at during acceptance
When accepting the container, check:
- Tightness – close yourself inside and check that no light shines through the walls or roof
- Doors – must open and close smoothly; the sealing must be intact
- Floor – the wooden floor must not be rotten or mechanically damaged
- Overall condition – rust is common on decommissioned containers, but it must not be holes or damage to the structural integrity
Document all defects (with photos) and report them to the provider immediately. This will prevent disputes when returning the deposit.
Security
Standard containers have eyelets for a padlock. This is basic, but not sufficient security. We recommend:
- Container with Lock Box – a special lock cover that prevents cutting the hasp
- Quality lock – invest in a security lock with a hardened shackle
Insurance
Standard household or business insurance often does not cover items stored in a container. Check this with your insurer. Some providers offer their own insurance – either directly or through a partner.
How to choose the right provider
When choosing, don’t be guided by price alone. Consider:
- Distance – transport over a long distance can offset the price difference
- Availability – the most sought-after types (20′ standard) may be sold out, especially in spring
- References – check reviews on Google, Firmy.cz, or specialized forums
- Flexibility – does the provider allow extension, shortening, or exchange of the container?
- Transparency – does it have a clearly set price list, or is the price “on request”?
FAQ
What is the minimum rental period for a shipping container?
Most providers offer shipping container rental from just 1 month. Some allow even shorter periods (days/weeks), but at a higher rate. For short-term rentals, transport makes up a significant part of total costs, so it’s worth considering whether a container at the provider’s depot would suffice.
How much does it cost to rent a 20-foot container per month?
The rental price of a 20′ container ranges from 1,800 CZK to 3,100 CZK per month (excluding VAT) depending on the rental period and container condition. The longer the rental, the lower the monthly rate. Transport (usually 2,500 – 5,000 CZK) and a refundable deposit must be added to the price.
How much does it cost to rent a 40-foot container per month?
Renting a 40′ container runs from 3,000 – 6,500 CZK per month (excluding VAT). The specific price depends on the rental period, container condition, and location. For rentals over 12 months, a price of around 3,000 – 3,600 CZK/month can be obtained.
How does the shipping container rental process work?
The rental process includes five basic steps: (1) defining the need (type, size, duration), (2) inquiry with 2–3 providers and comparison of offers, (3) signing the rental contract and paying the deposit, (4) transport and placement of the container at the prepared site, (5) use and subsequent removal after the rental ends.
Is it better to rent or buy a shipping container?
It depends on the length of use. The approximate threshold is 18 – 24 months – if you use the container for a shorter period, renting is worthwhile. For longer use, buying is economically more advantageous. Buying also pays off if you plan to significantly modify the container (insulation, electricity, shelving).
Do I need a permit to place a container on my own land?
On private land, you usually don’t need a permit if the container is placed temporarily and does not serve for permanent residence. Exceptions may include heritage zones, protected areas, or specific municipal ordinances. We recommend verifying this question with the relevant building authority.
What are the conditions for renting shipping containers?
Standard conditions include: signing a rental contract, paying a refundable deposit (5,000 – 15,000 CZK), monthly rent payments, prohibition of unprofessional interventions in the container, obligation to keep the container clean and report any damage. The notice period is usually 1 month, unless otherwise specified in the contract.
Can I rent a refrigerated container?
Yes, refrigerated container rental is offered by several providers (e.g., HZ-containers). The price is significantly higher than for a standard storage container – expect 5,000 – 10,000 CZK/month depending on size and required temperature range. Refrigerated containers are suitable for food, medicines, flowers, or chemicals.
Can I rent a container for a construction site?
Yes, renting a container for a construction site is one of the most common uses. Construction companies most often rent 20′ storage containers for tools and materials, or site cabins as facilities for workers. Decommissioned containers are suitable for construction sites – they are cheaper and minor cosmetic flaws don’t matter on a construction site.
What are the experiences with container rental?
Customer experiences are generally positive, especially regarding flexibility and speed. Most frequently praised aspects: fast delivery (within 3 – 5 business days), fair dealing when returning the deposit, functional and dry containers. What to watch out for: always check total costs including transport in advance – this can make up to 50% of the total price for short-term rentals.
Czech Republic, Olomouc 
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