Customs-Cleared (Nationalized) Containers
A nationalized container has already paid its import taxes and can be legally used in Panama. Every container Containero sells for local use is delivered customs-cleared, with a formal invoice.
Technical specifications
Features
Most common uses
What does "nationalized" (customs-cleared) mean?
A nationalized container is a unit that has exited the international-transport customs regime: its import declaration was filed with Panama's National Customs Authority (through a licensed customs broker), the applicable taxes were paid — including the 7% ITBMS — and the unit obtained free circulation within Panama. In other words: a container with its papers in order, which you can legally use, modify or resell in the country.
Why it matters: the risk of buying a non-nationalized unit
Containers circulate in the market that never formally exited the international-transport regime. Buying one of those "non-nationalized" units can bring serious surprises: retroactive taxes and charges, no valid fiscal invoice, difficulty proving ownership at resale, and exposure in any inspection by the authorities. Before buying from any seller, demand the fiscal invoice and ask explicitly whether the unit is nationalized. Every container Containero sells for local use in Panama is delivered nationalized, with an invoice and supporting paperwork — the customs risk is ours, not yours.
Exporting instead? The opposite case
Nationalization applies when the container stays in Panama. If your plan is the opposite — buying a unit to load cargo and export it (a SOC container) — what you need is not nationalization but Cargo Worthy grade and a valid CSC plate. We have a dedicated page for export-certified containers. Tell us your use case and we'll point you to the right option. Note: this page is general information, not legal or customs advice; for specific cases consult a licensed customs broker.
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