How to Ship a Container

Companies ship containers by ocean freighter and air shipment internationally.

A company uses shipping containers to move important cargo internationally either by sea or by air. The company contracts a shipping company to transport its containers for shipment. These containers consist of large metal boxes that can be 8 to 10 feet in height and 20 to 53 feet in length. Types of items shipped can include food products, manufacturing equipment and furniture. By contacting a freight shipper and requesting quotes, the company can book the shipment for transport in whichever mode of travel desired.

Instructions

1. Contact shipping companies one to receive the best quote concerning the costs for shipping the containers. Base your consideration also on any special services the shipping company may offer, such as shrink wrapping and placing goods on pallets before loading the products into containers. Book the shipment with the company at least three days in advance to allow proper time for all paperwork to be processed.

2. Fill out the appropriate shipping forms concerning your containers. Include information such as the number of containers to be shipped, whether the containers are less than a full container load or a full container load and the date and time of when the shipment should be delivered. Complete the shipping form concerning the type of transport you wish, either air or by sea.

3. Send the form to the shipping company to receive a booking number and booking confirmation document. Review the document concerning the days in which cargo can be received at the loading dock, the time in which the shipment will depart and the estimated time of arrival. Approve the booking confirmation and make the necessary payments.

4. Place the booking number on every container to be shipped. Include the booking number on all shipping documents, such as the packing list and invoices. Transport the containers to the appropriate loading dock location. Give the packing list document to the shipping company before the shipment is loaded and departs so that containers can be counted to ensure accuracy with records.

References

• Air Parcel Express Inc.: International Moving Checklist and Frequently Asked Questions