Where to buy a used shipping container in the Czech Republic?
Shipping containers have long ceased to serve only maritime transport. In the Czech Republic they are increasingly used as warehouses, workshops, site office containers, but also as a basis for residential buildings. If you too are facing the decision of where to buy a used shipping container, you will probably encounter a confusing mix of offers, price ranges and technical terms that you may not fully understand.
Where to Buy a Used Shipping Container in the Czech Republic?
The Czech market for used shipping containers is divided into two main categories: specialised dealers with their own warehouses and online classified portals where you can find offers from companies and private individuals. Each route has its advantages and risks.
Specialised Shipping Container Dealer
Specialised companies usually offer verified units, arrange transport and provide a guarantee.
HZ Containers – an international supplier with clear filtering
HZ Containers is an international supplier operating in the Czech Republic. Their website offers advanced filtering by condition, country of origin and other parameters. The offering also includes a detailed glossary of terms, which helps beginners find their way around the terminology.
How much does a used shipping container cost? – Current prices 2025
The price of a used shipping container depends on several factors: size, condition, age, location and current market demand. The following overview is based on real offers in 2025.
Price of a used 20-foot shipping container
The most sought-after format, approximately 6 metres long and 2.44 metres wide:
| Condition | Approximate price excl. VAT | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| AS IS (decommissioned) | 29 000–38 000 Kč | Undemanding storage, site office container |
| WWT (watertight) | 38 000–48 000 Kč | Storage of tools, materials |
| CW (Cargo Worthy) | 45 000–55 000 Kč | Reliable storage, transport |
| One Trip (nearly new) | 64 000–75 000 Kč | Representative use, conversion to housing |
Price of a used 40-foot and 40′ HC shipping container
A twelve-metre container offers double the volume. The High Cube (HC) version is 30 cm taller (2.89 m compared to the standard 2.59 m):
| Type | Condition | Approximate price excl. VAT |
|---|---|---|
| 40′ GP | AS IS | 35 000–45 000 Kč |
| 40′ GP | CW | 50 000–60 000 Kč |
| 40′ HC | CW | 55 000–70 000 Kč |
| 40′ HC | One Trip | 75 000–90 000 Kč |
What affects the price of a used shipping container?
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| Condition category | CW is 30–50 % more expensive than AS IS |
| Age | Containers older than 15 years are significantly cheaper, but may have hidden defects |
| Warehouse location | Proximity to your address reduces transport costs |
| Season | Spring and summer are periods of higher demand, prices rise by 5–10 % |
| Transport | The price of transport ranges from 5 000 to 20 000 Kč depending on distance and equipment |
How to buy a used shipping container? – A step-by-step guide
The purchase itself is not complicated if you know what to focus on. The following chapters will guide you through the whole process, from choosing a condition category to having the container placed on your plot.
Condition categories of maritime containers – CW, WWT, AS IS, IICL, One Trip
Understanding the condition categories is absolutely essential – they determine not only the price but also what you can expect from the container:
- IICL (Institute of International Container Lessors) – the highest standard of used containers. They have passed strict inspection, are practically free of defects and suitable for further transport. They appear rarely on the ordinary Czech market.
- CW (Cargo Worthy) – the container is fit for maritime transport. This means it is watertight, has functioning doors, an undamaged floor and a valid CSC plate. For storage this is more than sufficient quality.
- WWT (Wind and Water Tight) – the container is resistant to wind and water, but may not meet all the requirements for transport. For storage purposes entirely sufficient.
- AS IS (“as it stands and lies”) – the container is sold in its current condition without warranty. It may have dents, corrosion, a non-functional seal or other defects. The price is the lowest, but the risk is the highest.
- One Trip (“after the first voyage”) – a practically new container that has made a single voyage with cargo (typically from Asia to Europe). Minimal wear, maximum price.
What to watch out for when buying a used shipping container – a practical checklist
Before buying, go through the following points. They will save you unpleasantness and unnecessary expenses:
- Watertightness – ask the seller to confirm that the container is WWT or CW. If you are buying AS IS, count on the possibility of leaking.
- Condition of the floor – the floor of a shipping container is usually made of plywood. Check whether it is rotten, decayed or infested by pests. Floor repair is expensive.
- Corrosion and dents – surface rust is common and harmless. What matters is whether corrosion has penetrated through – inspect especially the corners, the bottom frame and the area around the doors.
- Door seal – the rubber seal around the doors must be intact and flexible. Replacing it is technically demanding.
- Functionality of the doors – the doors should open and close without excessive force. Check the hinges and the locking mechanism.
- CSC plate – if you plan to use the container for transport as well, it must have a valid CSC plate. Without it, the carrier will not load it.
- Smell and chemicals – ask what the container transported. Some chemicals can leave a permanent odour or damage the floor.
- Photographs – always request current photographs of the specific unit, not just illustrative images.
How does shipping container transport work and how much does it cost?
Transport is an often underestimated item that can fundamentally affect the total price. A container weighs 2–4 tonnes and cannot be transported by an ordinary car. Here is what you need to know:
- Method of transport – a truck with a hydraulic crane (a so-called “truck with a crane”) is used as standard; it places the container on site by itself. Alternatively, a crane can be used, but that is more expensive.
- Approximate transport price – for transport within one region you will pay 5 000–8 000 Kč. For transport across the country, count on 10 000–20 000 Kč.
- Access road – verify that a truck can reach your plot (height approx. 4 m, width 2.5 m, length up to 18 m). Check the load-bearing capacity of the access road, any obstacles (wires, branches, fences) and the space for manoeuvring.
- Base – the container should stand on a firm and level surface. Concrete panels, sleepers or compacted gravel are ideal. Uneven terrain can cause twisting of the frame and problems with opening the doors.
- Part of the service – most specialised dealers arrange transport and price it individually. If you buy through a classified ad, you must arrange transport yourself.
New vs. used shipping container – which pays off?
The decision between a new and a used container depends primarily on the purpose:
| Criterion | Used (CW/WWT) | New / One Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Price 20′ | 45 000–55 000 Kč | 65 000–80 000 Kč |
| Appearance | Signs of use, patina | Perfect, representative |
| Service life | 10–20 years with proper maintenance | 25+ years |
| Suitable for | Storage, workshop, site office container | Housing, office, representative spaces |
| Risk | Condition inspection necessary | Minimal |
If you plan to use the container for storing tools, materials or as a site office container, a used CW container is the ideal choice. For conversion into housing or an office, it is worth considering One Trip – you will save yourself worries about hidden defects and the result will be representative.
FAQ
Is renting a shipping container instead of buying worth it?
Renting a shipping container pays off for short-term projects – typically on construction sites, during renovations or as temporary storage. The monthly rent of a 20′ container is around 2 500–4 000 Kč. If you plan to use the container for longer than 18–24 months, buying works out economically better. Renting is offered, for example, by HZ Containers.
What is the difference between a shipping and a storage container?
A shipping (maritime) container is made of COR-TEN steel according to ISO standards and is dimensioned for the extreme conditions of maritime transport. A storage container is a lighter construction intended exclusively for static storage. A shipping container is more universal, more durable and has a higher residual value, but it is also more expensive and heavier.
Do I need a building permit to place a shipping container?
It depends on the manner of use. If the container serves as mobile storage and is not firmly connected to the ground, a building permit is usually not required. However, if you plan to use it as a permanent structure (housing, office) or connect it firmly to the ground, a building permit or a building notification is necessary. We always recommend consulting your local building authority.
Where can I find the nearest warehouse of used shipping containers?
The largest concentration of warehouses and depots is in central Bohemia (the surroundings of Prague, Slaný), in Moravia (Brno, Znojmo) and around larger cities. Most dealers have their own depots – for example, HZ Containers have warehouses throughout the Czech Republic. When choosing a dealer, take the location of the warehouse into account – proximity to your plot significantly reduces the price of transport.
Can a container be converted into housing?
Yes, shipping containers are a popular basis for tiny houses, cottages and larger residential buildings. For conversion we recommend One Trip containers – they have minimal wear and contain no residues from the transport of chemicals. Conversion includes insulation, installation of windows, doors, electrical wiring and utilities.
Can a used shipping container be rusty?
Yes, surface rust is common on used shipping containers and is no cause for concern. The COR-TEN steel from which the containers are made forms a protective layer of rust on the surface that prevents further corrosion. The only problem is corrosion that has penetrated through – that most often appears at the corners, the bottom frame and in the door seal.
Where to buy a used shipping container in Brno?
Several dealers operate in Brno and its surroundings – for example, HZ Containers.
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