Moving a shipping container may seem complicated, but it is not. Relocating within a country or shipping goods overseas usually involves incurring costs.
This knowledge will thus aid in better decision-making. Let us decrypt the issue.
What’s Involved in Moving a Shipping Container?
Before we proceed to the expenses, let’s demystify the task. In general, moving a shipping container takes several stages, such as:
Container Preparation: Is the container loaded or empty? A full container load weighs more, affecting transport costs.
Transport Type: Are you using road, rail, or sea? Each mode has unique pricing.
Distance and Destination: Short hauls cost less than international container shipping.
Port-to-port versus Door-to-door method: Do you want a container ship to deliver directly to you, or do you just want it to get to the port?
Container size: A standard 20-foot container is more cost-effective to transport than a 40-foot container.
Understanding The Cost to Move a Shipping Container
The cost depends on the details.
Local Transport: The cost to move containers locally from one location to another will depend on a few factors.
- Where the existing container is currently located
- The new location where the container will be delivered too
- The weight of the goods inside the container as this may require a forklift to be able to load and offload the container.
Interstate Transport: The average costs for transporting containers interstate can vary mainly depending on the distance between the point of pick up and drop off along with the customer’s choice to have it driven by truck or transported by rail.
International Shipping: International shipping can be done in 2 simple ways.
One is to buy your own container and have it shipped known as a SOC (shipper owned container) container and two is to lease a container to have your goods transported in.
SOC customers own their container once it arrives at its destination whereas leased container customers will have to return the container once the container lease is over. 
Real-Life Scenarios
Imagine that you have to transfer a loaded container from Los Angeles to Melbourne with household goods. One option would be to hire a freight forwarding company that will schedule and handle all of the logistics of your move from top to bottom which might cost between 7,000.00 to 15,000.00 depending on some factors. The other option would be to contract directly with a shipping line then hire an independent truck driver who can deliver your container to the port for shipment to save on costs.
Factors That Affect Container Shipping Costs
Fuel Prices: Higher fuel costs drive up shipping container transport fees.
Container Hire Fees: Hiring one increases the cost if you don’t own a container.
Weight and Size: The size and the weight of the container being transported will determine the cost.
Customs and Duties: International container shipping costs often include fees such as terminal handling, storage, international customs charges.
Peak Seasons: Costs spike during peak shipping periods, like Christmas or harvest seasons.
Tips to Save Money on Container Transport
Plan Ahead: Booking early often secures better container shipping prices.
Compare Quotes: Shop around for competitive rates.
Opt for Port-to-Port: It’s usually cheaper than door-to-door service.
Use a Freight Forwarder: These experts negotiate the best international container shipping costs.
Consolidate Shipments: Sharing container space reduces costs if you don’t need a full container load.
Choosing the Right Container Transport Service
When selecting a shipping container transport provider, consider the following:
Reputation: Read reviews and check customer satisfaction.
Experience: Providers specializing in container transport handle challenges better.
Services Offered: Do they provide container hire, port-to-port, or door-to-door service?
Transparency: Clear pricing ensures no hidden fees.
Final Thoughts
How much does it cost to move a shipping container? It depends on your unique needs. By understanding the factors and comparing options, you can find the best service and save money.
You must plan your transport across borders ahead of time to make moving a container easier and less expensive.
Then, if we are talking about a container load of personal items or a full container load of business commodities, awareness of the details will surely help you win the game. Start planning today!
Ready to Move Your Shipping Container?
At Shipping Container Depot, we minimize the difficulty of moving the container and with experience and competitive pricing. We offer local moves and container relocations.
Get a Quote: Visit us today for the most competitive pricing.
Expert Support: A supporting staff member who will accompany you at every stage.
Flexible Options: You can choose to go port to port or door to door based on your needs.
Contact us today at (626) 765-9446 to get started and make your container move seamlessly!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the cost of moving a 40-foot shipping container internationally?
Moving a 40-foot container internationally typically costs 7,000.00 to 15,000.00 depending on the destination and other factors.
Are there extra fees for an empty container?
Empty containers are lighter, which may reduce costs, but hire fees or return logistics could add to the expense.
How do customs fees impact international container shipping costs?
Customs fees vary by country and are a significant part of international container shipping prices. Therefore, you should account for them in your budget.
When is the best time to move a container to save money?
Avoid peak seasons like Christmas or harvest times. Booking during off-peak periods often reduces costs.
How do I move a shipping container without owning one?
You can opt for container lease and hire services, which provide containers for temporary use at an additional cost.
