Complete Guide to Containers in Panama
Panama has a unique position in the container market thanks to the Canal and the continent's main ports. This guide explains everything you need to know about buying and using containers in our country.
Contents
Why Panama is special for containers
Panama is one of the best places in the world to buy used containers. Why?
The Panama Canal: Thousands of containers pass through here every day. Many end up staying due to global trade imbalances.
Main ports: MIT (Manzanillo), Balboa, Cristóbal and Coco Solo are among the most active in Latin America. This means abundant inventory.
Colón Free Zone: The world's second-largest free zone generates constant container turnover.
Result for you: Greater availability, more selection options, and competitive prices compared to other countries in the region.
Popular uses in Panama
Panamanians have adopted containers for multiple uses:
Commercial storage: Warehouses for inventory, construction equipment, archives.
Construction: Site offices, changing rooms, material storage. Very popular in the real estate boom.
Agroindustry: Crop storage, agricultural equipment, farm workshops.
Commerce: Pop-up stores, food trucks, kiosks. Container City in Panama is a perfect example.
Housing: Beach houses in Bocas del Toro, cabins in Volcán, independent studios.
Tourism: Glamping, unique Airbnbs, themed bars and restaurants.
Panama's tropical climate requires special ventilation and insulation considerations for some uses.
Deliveries throughout Panama
We deliver containers to all provinces:
Panama City and surroundings: 3-5 days typical. Includes Arraiján, La Chorrera, Panamá Este.
Colón: 2-4 days. Port proximity allows faster deliveries.
Chiriquí (David, Volcán, Boquete): 5-7 days. We coordinate ground transportation.
Bocas del Toro: 7-10 days. Requires special logistics including barge for the islands.
Interior (Santiago, Chitré, Penonomé): 4-6 days. Established routes.
Darién: Consult. Limited access requires case-by-case evaluation.
Delivery cost varies by distance and accessibility. We always include the exact cost in the initial quote.
Panama climate considerations
Panama's tropical climate presents specific challenges:
Intense heat: An unmodified container can exceed 50°C inside under direct sun. For habitable use or offices:
- Thermal insulation (polyurethane foam or panels)
- Cross ventilation (windows on opposite sides)
- Air conditioning for real comfort
- Reflective roof or double roof
Humidity: 80-90% average humidity. For storage:
- Passive ventilation (turbine-type vents)
- Dehumidifiers for sensitive items
- Pallets to separate contents from floor
Rain: Intense precipitation in rainy season. Ensure:
- Adequate drainage around container
- Sealing of any modifications (windows, doors)
- Elevated base if terrain accumulates water
Salt air (coastal areas): In Bocas, Colón, and coasts:
- Anti-corrosive marine paint
- Annual rust inspection
- Periodic washing to remove salt
Permits and regulations
Do I need a permit to place a container?
It depends on use and location:
Temporary/storage use: In most commercial and industrial zones, no permit is required for storage containers. In residential zones, regulations vary by district.
Permanent/habitable use: Any conversion to office, housing, or commercial requires:
- Construction permit from municipality
- Plans approved by engineer
- Building code compliance
Special zones: Protected, heritage, or tourist areas may have additional restrictions.
Our recommendation: For simple storage, there's generally no problem. For conversions, consult with the municipality before investing in modifications.
Note: We are not legal advisors. This information is for guidance. Always confirm with local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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