Warehouses for Rent in Košice – Market Overview 2025

Quick Overview of the Košice Warehouse Market

Košice’s warehouse and logistics market is experiencing steady growth driven by the city’s strategic position near the Slovak-Hungarian border, robust industrial base, and expanding e-commerce sector. The city offers a wide range of industrial spaces from compact warehouses for last-mile delivery to large-scale distribution centers. Košice’s logistics hubs benefit from strong transport links and ongoing investments in modern, sustainable facilities, making it an attractive destination for logistics and industrial operations in eastern Slovakia.

Total Stock (Approx. sqm)

The total stock of warehouse and industrial space in Košice exceeds approximately 400,000 m², with new developments continuously expanding capacity to meet increasing demand. Vacancy rates hover around 7–9%, with premium and green-certified warehouses particularly sought after.

Range of Unit Sizes

Available warehouse units range from as small as 300 m²—ideal for startups and small distribution firms—to large industrial halls exceeding 25,000 m², suitable for multinational distribution centers and manufacturing operations.

Key Transport Infrastructure

• Motorways: Košice is connected to the D1 motorway, providing direct access westwards to Bratislava and eastwards towards the Ukrainian border. The nearby R4 expressway enhances regional connectivity.

• Ring Roads: The city has a ring road system that efficiently diverts freight traffic from the city center, facilitating smooth logistics operations.

• Rail: Košice has a major rail freight terminal, linking the city with European and international rail corridors.

• Airport: Košice International Airport offers cargo and passenger services, enabling air freight options for time-sensitive shipments.

• Waterways: While not directly on a major waterway, Košice benefits from multimodal transport options integrating road, rail, and air.

Why Košice is Attractive for Logistics and Industrial Operations

Košice’s strategic location near Central Europe’s eastern border, combined with its well-developed industrial zones, access to skilled labor, and supportive local authorities, makes it a logistics hotspot. Competitive rental rates compared to Western Slovakia and comprehensive transport infrastructure facilitate efficient supply chain management. The city’s industrial clusters include automotive manufacturing, electronics, and heavy industry, underpinning demand for modern warehouse facilities.

Main Warehouse Zones and Logistics Hubs in Košice

1. Košice Industrial Park (KIP)

• Typical Unit Sizes: 1,000–25,000 m²

• Accessibility: 10 minutes from city center, direct access to D1 motorway junction

• Technical Specs: Clear height 10–12 m, dock levellers, cross-docking capabilities, floor load up to 5 t/m², advanced HVAC systems

• Unique Features: ESG-certified buildings with BREEAM ratings, solar PV installations, EV charging stations, 24/7 security, bonded warehouse options available

2. Šaca District Logistics Zone

• Typical Unit Sizes: 500–10,000 m²

• Accessibility: 15 minutes to city center, close to main rail freight terminal and motorway access

• Technical Specs: Clear height 9–11 m, dock levellers, reinforced flooring, sprinkler systems, flexible layout for multi-tenant usage

• Unique Features: Proximity to major automotive plants, green-certified buildings, waste management programs, EV infrastructure

3. Barca Industrial Area

• Typical Unit Sizes: 300–5,000 m²

• Accessibility: 20 minutes from city center, easy connection to ring road and highway

• Technical Specs: Clear height 8–10 m, dock levellers, floor load capacity 4 t/m², options for cold storage and light manufacturing

• Unique Features: Focus on small to medium enterprises, flexible lease terms, solar power integration, bike-friendly facilities

Tenant Requirements and Current Trends in Košice

Tenants increasingly seek flexible lease terms, with 1–3 years common for city logistics and last-mile warehouses, while distribution centers typically sign 3–5 year contracts. Sustainability is a growing priority, with demand for green-certified buildings, solar panels, EV charging stations, and energy-efficient lighting. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), IoT monitoring for security and climate control, and automation readiness are in high demand.

Last-Mile Delivery Dynamics

Košice’s urban logistics are evolving with an emphasis on last-mile delivery hubs close to the city center, supporting rapid e-commerce growth. Low-emission zones and green vehicle infrastructure encourage sustainable urban freight solutions.

ESG/Green Building Standards

New warehouse developments comply with BREEAM or LEED certification standards, featuring solar PV installations, rainwater harvesting, LED lighting, and EV charger installations. ESG compliance helps tenants reduce operational costs and meet corporate sustainability goals.

Lease Flexibility

Lease durations vary by warehouse type:

• City logistics & last-mile warehouses: 1–3 years

• Large distribution centers: 3–5 years, with options to extend based on tenant growth

Technical Trends

High clear heights (10–12 m), WMS-ready infrastructure, IoT-enabled building management, and automation-friendly layouts characterize modern warehouses in Košice.

Tips for Successful Warehouse Leasing in Košice

• Loading Capacity & Truck Access: Ensure dock levellers and yard layouts support your fleet size.

• Floor Load-Bearing Requirements: Verify floor capacities, especially if heavy machinery or racking systems are used.

• Utilities & Power Upgrades: Check for sufficient power supply and backup systems for your operations.

• Traffic Restrictions & Access Regulations: Consider local traffic rules and peak hour restrictions affecting freight movement.

• ESG Reports & OPEX Considerations: Review building energy certifications and operational cost transparency for budget planning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the smallest unit I can lease in Košice?
A: Units from 300 m² are commonly available, suitable for startups and SMEs.

Q: What is the typical lease term for warehouses in Košice?
A: Lease terms range from 1 to 5 years, depending on the warehouse type and tenant needs.

Q: What clear height can I expect in Košice warehouses?
A: Typical clear heights range from 8 to 12 meters, supporting modern logistics operations.

Q: What extra costs should I budget for besides rent?
A: Expect additional expenses for utilities, maintenance, security, property management fees, and possibly parking.