Shipping Container Marketplace

Where and How to Affordably Get a Used Container?

Shipping containers have become a very popular solution in recent years for storage, transportation, or even as a basis for building modular homes. If you’re looking for a cost-effective option, older marketplace containers represent an ideal choice. In this article, you’ll learn where it’s possible to purchase used shipping containers, what to watch out for when selecting one, and what options exist for their use.

Where to Look for Shipping Container Marketplace

The internet is full of offers for the sale of used shipping containers. One of the most well-known portals in our country is Bazoš, where you’ll find a wide range of listings from both private individuals and companies. In the “House and Garden” category, you often find containers of various types and sizes. Another portal is, for example, Facebook marketplace. When searching, simply enter keywords such as “shipping container marketplace” and browse current offers. However, be careful of scams! Czechs respond to discounts and low prices. Unfortunately, in recent years, there are increasingly more defrauded people who paid for a container but never saw their money or the container again.

“Unfortunately, about 2-4 defrauded people call us per week saying they fell for it, and after this experience, they’re more careful the second time and buy a container from us – from a verified company with a long history. It’s sad, but we can’t do anything about it either. The only option is to warn customers about it and have the company as transparent as possible.”

Shipping Container Marketplace Price

The price of marketplace shipping containers varies depending on individual seller offers, size, quality, and the possibility of VAT deduction. Current selling prices range from 33,500 CZK to 69,500 CZK without VAT.

However, be cautious with marketplace offers. Not only do some sellers not list prices according to the law with VAT, but they also provide misleading information about possible transportation. In the listing preview, the container may seem very cheap, including transportation, but after you order it, you’ll find that these are prices without VAT and without transportation. Even though these sellers violate the law, unfortunately they continue to use these unfair practices to mislead customers by stating a lower price than their competitors.

What to Watch Out for and Not Fall for Container Fraud?

  1. The first major red flag is a suspiciously low price! Unfortunately, it often happens that people, lured by the vision of a low purchase price, don’t pay attention to any other circumstances, pay anyone for the container, and aren’t even suspicious of poor Czech language or the fact that they’re sending money to a foreign account.
  2. It’s a private seller/advertiser who has no history. Under any made-up account, an advertiser can offer, for example, half the price for a container, commit several frauds, then simply delete the account and create a new one…
  3. Verify that the company actually exists, is registered in the business register, and files proper tax returns.
  4. Make sure the company has a physical location where you can visit to inspect containers anytime. Our company HZ containers has over 250 shipping containers in stock in Třebíč of various types, colors, and sizes. You can visit us on weekdays from 8:00 to 17:00, on Friday until 15:00. It’s best to call ahead. If Třebíč is too far for you, we also have containers in container depots throughout the Czech Republic; here, personal inspection is not possible, but you can verify all other information listed here.
  5. Existing reviews and references of the company on the website. For example, Google reviews can only be posted through a verified account.
  6. Own photographs of containers. We have thousands!
  7. Verify whether the offered price includes VAT or is without VAT, with transportation or without (this information can fundamentally change the final price)
  8. Be careful – scammers sometimes even impersonate verified companies! They’ll send you an invoice with the company letterhead, except the bank account number doesn’t match and the translations in the invoice show minor signs of translation errors through a translator! That’s why we’ve published our bank account number and a clear procedure from order to container delivery.

Shipping Container Marketplace Price – We Also Offer on the Bazoš Portal:

Why Choose a Used Shipping Container

A used shipping container offers a number of advantages:

  • Price: A used container is significantly cheaper than a new one. This allows you to save considerable financial resources, especially if you’re planning a larger project.
  • However, everything depends on the age of the container and its quality! For example, a container after one sea voyage is in excellent condition, but certainly won’t cost half the price! You can expect half the price of a new container for a used container that’s about 10 years old after several sea voyages. On our website, you can choose from hundreds of containers not only in the Czech Republic but also around the world.
  • Availability: Marketplace containers are often immediately available. You don’t have to wait for manufacturing or importing a new piece. Especially if you want to pick up the container with your own carrier, the deal can be closed within a single day and you can pick up the container right away.
  • Sustainability: Recycling and reuse of containers is environmentally friendly. You give old material a new purpose and thus reduce your ecological footprint.

What to Watch Out for When Selecting a Marketplace Container:

To ensure your purchase of a marketplace container meets your expectations, it’s important to carefully assess the condition and quality of the offered goods:

  • Structural condition: Check whether the walls and floor are in good condition. Look for signs of corrosion, holes, or deformations. (of course, it always depends on what quality of shipping container you’re buying! If you’ve chosen a decommissioned shipping container, then it can certainly have damage. On the other hand, a container after one voyage should be completely fine and in very good condition.)
  • Tightness: Make sure the container doesn’t leak if you need such a container. An undamaged roof and sealing elements are key to protecting the contents from moisture. (if you only need a container for storing junk or old tires, you can of course choose lower quality for a lower price)
  • Door functionality: Doors should open and close smoothly. Locks and hinges must be in good condition to ensure safety (this applies to IICL6, IICL5, and Cargo Worthy quality)
  • Previous use: Avoid containers that transported hazardous materials or were exposed to aggressive chemicals. You can easily find this out by inspecting the container when you take possession of it.

How to Arrange Transportation and Placement of the Container

Shipping container transportation requires special equipment. Most sellers, like our company HZ containers, offer the option of arranging transportation to the final destination. When planning, consider the following:

  • Terrain accessibility: Make sure there’s a road leading to your property suitable for a truck with a container.
  • Unloading: To unload the container, you often need a vehicle with a hydraulic arm or a crane. Ensure sufficient space for handling.
  • Foundation: Prepare a solid and level base on which the container will be placed. This can be a concrete slab, gravel bed, or solid ground.

Shipping Container Marketplace – Usage Options:

Shipping containers offer a wide range of uses thanks to their robustness and modularity:

  • Storage spaces: Ideal for storing tools, materials, or seasonal equipment.
  • Workshop or garage: With minimal modifications, a container can be converted into a functional workshop or garage for a motorcycle or ATV.
  • Mobile office: After insulation and window installation, it can serve as a workspace on a construction site or in the field.
  • Housing: Increasingly popular is the use of containers for building modular homes or recreational cottages. They offer modern and ecological housing at an affordable price.
  • Commercial spaces: Creating a sales stand, café, or showroom with an original design.

Tips for a Successful Purchase

To make your purchase as advantageous as possible, consider the following advice:

  • Compare offers: Don’t rush your selection and compare multiple listings. The price should correspond to the condition and age of the container.
  • Personal inspection: Always try to see the container in person before buying. If the photographs are poor quality or there’s only one – it may not reveal all deficiencies.
  • Negotiation with the seller: Don’t be afraid to ask for necessary documents or certificates.
  • Contract: Conclude a written contract that will contain all important details including the condition of the container and transportation conditions. Verified sellers always offer containers in the stated quality, which must meet specific criteria. (for example, that a used container of Cargo Worthy quality cannot be leaky)

A marketplace shipping container is a practical and economically advantageous solution for many purposes. Whether you need to store material, expand your business, or are looking for an unconventional way to live, a used container can serve you well. Thanks to portals like Bazoš, the selection is wide and the possibilities are almost unlimited. However, carefully consider all aspects of the purchase so you’re maximally satisfied with the result and don’t fall for fraud.

Google Reviews

“A personal inspection and demonstration of a specific container for storage was arranged, but in the end I took 2 pieces in better quality right away. And I’m thrilled with that decision – the price/condition ratio was clear. Truly 100% satisfaction. Thank you for the business and I recommend it with a clear conscience.”

Zdenek Mikolanda

* November 2024

“Absolutely above-standard service, great agreement, what’s said is done, willingness to explain everything, advise….I ordered a container about 7 years ago, and now a month ago. The company continues to maintain a high standard in everything. Container descriptions, their quality, arrangement with transportation, simply everything perfect. If I buy for the third time, it will be here. 🙂 I really praise them because they continue to maintain a high standard of service, products, and services around them. Best of luck to you 🙂 Procházková Olomouc”

Kateřina Procházková

* October 2024