International Container Shipping Services

Maximum gross weight for shipping containers is typically 67,000-71,650 lbs (30.4-32.5 metric tons) depending on container type and shipping route. This includes the container's tare weight (empty weight): 20' containers weigh about 5,000 lbs (2.3 tons), 40' containers about 8,000 lbs (3.7 tons), giving you maximum cargo weights of approximately 62,000 lbs for 20' and 59,000 lbs for 40' containers. However, actual weight limits may be lower due to: road weight restrictions for inland transport (often 44,000-48,000 lbs total), vessel limitations, and destination country regulations. Overweight containers incur additional charges and may be rejected. We verify weight limits for your specific route and ensure compliance with all regulations.

Yes, we offer container delivery and pickup services for customer loading. The container is delivered to your business or residence using a chassis and truck, positioned where you specify (on level ground), and you have a designated time to load it (typically 2-5 days). This self-loading option saves money on loading fees. Requirements include: sufficient space for truck access and maneuvering (about 100 feet clear), level ground to position container, ability to load within allowed time, and proper cargo securing (we can provide guidance or loading supervision). Alternatively, we offer professional loading services where our team loads your cargo using forklifts and equipment, ensuring proper weight distribution and securing. Both options available nationwide.

Prohibited items in container shipping include: hazardous materials without proper classification and documentation (explosives, flammable liquids/gases, corrosives, toxic substances), illegal items (drugs, counterfeit goods, endangered species), weapons and ammunition (restricted - requires permits), perishable food without refrigerated containers, and items prohibited by destination country. Restricted items requiring special permits or documentation include: alcohol and tobacco, batteries (lithium-ion), chemicals, plants and seeds, animal products, pharmaceuticals, and used mattresses. Always declare all cargo contents accurately. Undeclared hazardous goods pose serious safety risks and legal consequences including fines and cargo seizure. We verify compliance for all shipments and arrange proper documentation for regulated items.

To calculate container requirements, you need total cargo cubic meters (CBM) and weight. Calculate CBM: Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m) for each item, then sum all items. Compare total CBM to container capacity: 20' = 33 CBM, 40' = 67 CBM, 40'HC = 76 CBM, 45'HC = 86 CBM. Also check total weight against container max load (usually 28-29 tons cargo). Account for 10-15% space loss due to irregular shapes and securing requirements. For example, 60 CBM cargo weighing 15 tons fits in one 40'HC container. 150 CBM at 40 tons requires two 40'HC containers (75 CBM each). We provide free load planning to determine optimal container quantity and type for your shipment.

Port-to-port shipping covers ocean freight only - from origin port to destination port. You're responsible for inland transport to/from ports, customs clearance, and container loading/unloading. This option is cheaper but requires you to coordinate multiple service providers. Door-to-door shipping is comprehensive service from your pickup location to final delivery address. It includes: pickup and loading at origin, inland transport to port, ocean freight, customs clearance at both ends, destination port charges, and delivery to final destination. Door-to-door is convenient, saves time, has single point of contact, and typically faster overall as we coordinate all steps. The cost difference is usually 20-30% more for door-to-door, but you save time and effort. Most clients prefer door-to-door for its simplicity and reliability.

Professional container loading follows systematic procedures: cargo is organized by weight (heavy items on bottom), dimensions (maximizing space utilization), and fragility (protecting delicate items). Loading process includes: inspecting container for damage and cleanliness, creating loading plan to optimize space and balance weight, using appropriate equipment (forklifts, pallet jacks), securing cargo with dunnage, strapping, corner protectors, and void fillers, and sealing container with tamper-proof seal after loading. Weight must be evenly distributed - excessive weight on one end causes handling issues and potential damage. We photograph loaded containers for documentation. For valuable or fragile cargo, we use additional securing methods like airbags, wooden bracing, and custom crating. Our experienced loading teams ensure cargo arrives safely.

Yes, we offer comprehensive container loading services and supervision. Options include: Full Loading Service - our professional team loads your container using proper equipment and techniques, ensuring optimal space utilization and cargo securing ($200-$800 depending on cargo type and volume). Loading Supervision - we oversee your loading process, provide guidance on proper securing methods, verify weight distribution, and conduct final inspection ($100-$300). Container Delivery for Self-Loading - we deliver empty container to your location, you load it yourself following our guidelines, we inspect and pickup ($150-$400 including delivery and pickup). We also provide: loading equipment rental, securing materials (straps, dunnage), palletizing services, and container photography documentation. All services ensure cargo is properly loaded to prevent damage during ocean transit.