How to buy a shipping container in Nigeria

1. Decide what the container is for

Start with the job, not the box. A container bought for storage has different needs from one that will become a shop, office or site cabin, or one that will be exported with cargo.

• Storage / warehouse — wind & watertight used units are usually the best value.
• Shop, office, kiosk or living space — choose a newer unit with straight walls and a good floor; a High Cube gives extra headroom for ceilings and lighting.
• Shipping cargo — the container must be cargo-worthy with a valid CSC plate.

2. Choose the size

Most buyers choose between a 20ft and a 40ft container. A 20ft is easier to deliver into tight compounds and estates; a 40ft gives double the floor space for not much more than double the price, and a 40ft High Cube adds about 30 cm of height. See 20ft vs 40ft and the full sizes & dimensions guide.

3. New or used?

"New" containers are usually one-trip units — manufactured, used once to carry cargo, then sold. Used containers have years of service and vary more in condition. Read new vs used containers for how to choose.

4. Inspect before you pay

Photos can hide rust, dents and soft floors. Either inspect in person or ask the seller for a detailed walk-around video. Our inspection checklist lists exactly what to check. On C-ZUCHI you can book a free terminal inspection for any listed unit.

5. Pay safely

Avoid paying large sums into personal accounts for a container you haven't seen. Pay a registered business, get a receipt, and prefer payment methods with a record. On this site, payment is processed by Paystack (card, bank transfer or USSD) and you receive an emailed receipt and invoice with the container number.

6. Plan the delivery

Containers are delivered on a flatbed or side-loader truck. Before delivery day:

• Make sure the truck can reach the spot — check gate width, overhead cables, trees and soft ground.
• Prepare a firm, level base (concrete blocks or a slab at each corner) so the doors open and close properly.
• Leave clearance in front of the doors.
• Check any estate or local authority rules for placing a container on your property.

Delivery is priced by distance from our yard to your location — drop a pin at checkout to see the exact fee. Already have a container somewhere else? Book a truck to move it.

Frequently asked questions