Is there a specific name for the mise en place containers used in professional kitchens?
Around here, they're called 'deli containers'.  Those are specifically the heavier weight ones that can deal with hot foods.  I don't see delis using them much anymore (they've switched to thinner, less expensive ones), but all of the restaurants near me that sell soup as takeout use them.

They generally go for $0.08 to $0.20 in bulk, depending on how many you're buying and if they have lids.  (eg, a case of 1000 without lids is about $80 for the 16oz ones; maybe $100 to $120 for the taller (32oz ones))

You might be able to ask your local Chinese restaurants if they'll sell you some -- I can also get lighter weight ones in smaller lots (25) at most of the hispanic &amp; asian grocery stores near me, as many of them have an aisle with goods that people running food trucks would need.