I assumed the containers had to go somewhere and be delivered. And some accomplice would clean them up, and send them back.

I would think if one had the wherewithal to have a container, arrange for shipping, pay (I suspect they don't take cash), and a manifest, you would also have some ability to rent a storage unit, or something, to unload it so as to not leave the evidence behind.

Do you think they have a phony address, and people get out somewhere along the way?

That would seem to be pretty chancy. Would never know if someone were around or for sure where you were.

And they would still need somewhere to go, more accomplices.

I wonder how that works. Maybe they do manage to pay in cash, and just climb out when they hit land.

Arf