There are many reasons why you may want to seek to transport shipping containers. Whether you are looking to transport your entire home, move to new offices, or ship a large supply of manufactured goods, using shipping containers is one of the better methods for such endeavors. However, it must be understood that the costs can vary significantly based on a wide variety of factors. With that in mind, here are some things to focus on when considering the cost of transporting shipping containers.
The Difference in International vs. Local Costs
One thing to keep in mind when transporting shipping containers is that local costs are relatively small when compared to international shipping. For example, transporting a shipping container locally can cost around $1.5 to $3 per mile.
However, the situation changes dramatically when obtaining containers from outside the US. Most of these containers come from Asia, and as a result, the costs can be considerably higher. In fact, upon closer examination, you’ll notice that the prices for the same container can range from $2000 to $20000. This cost disparity is influenced by factors such as container size. These prices demonstrate how expensive it can be to acquire such containers.
On the East Coast, prices tend to be particularly high, with more affordable options available in places like Long Beach due to proximity to China and oversupply. The highest charges arise from opting for overseas shipping, which makes getting a shipping container internationally a less appealing option.
Working with a freight forwarding company can help identify the best prices for transporting shipping containers. Leveraging their expertise and B2B network can help you find optimal solutions.
Size of Shipping Matters with Costs
As you can imagine, the size of the shipping container directly impacts the costs involved. While 20-foot containers tend to be less expensive, discounts can sometimes be obtained for 40-foot containers as well. Although less common, there are even 56-foot containers available, providing around 120 additional square feet per container.
Typically, when freight is moved by ground, a specific class is assigned based on the size and weight of the shipment. While this classification doesn’t apply to ocean and sea transport, understanding how these classes function can help estimate the budget required.
Considering additional costs, insurance plays a significant role. Essentially, the larger the unit, the higher the insurance costs. Collaborating with industry experts who can help you navigate insurance options is advisable. Keep in mind that larger units will generally incur higher insurance charges.
Cost of Insurance
Whether insurance is worth it depends on your circumstances. If you’ve purchased a single container, the insurance costs might not be justified. However, if you’re dealing with multiple containers, insurance becomes a prudent consideration. While some companies might include insurance in the total costs, not all will. Choosing a reliable freight shipping service can help you avoid any unexpected and undisclosed fees.
It’s crucial to track and manage all this information before transporting shipping containers. Doing so will significantly improve the entire experience and help preempt potential issues. Keep these considerations in mind as you plan your shipping container logistics.
