Shipping Containers

Import & Export

If looking to import or export a shipper owned container (SOC), CSI can handle every step along the way.

From sourcing your shipper owned container to delivering it to the port, we are your turnkey solution provider.

CSI can provide equipment globally.

Contact us to let us know where your needs may be.

Why do I want
a Shipper Owned Container (SOC)?

 
  • If you or your customer own the container, you won’t be forced to pay those pesky demurrage/detention fees to the carrier. With constantly changing vessel schedules, a shipper owned container (SOC) will eliminate having to pay the steamship line additional penalties to use their containers.

  • With equipment shortages across the world, a shipper owned container (SOC) will guarantee that you will have your container for the date that you wish to load (disclaimer: you are still subject to chassis availability).

  • Collecting cargo to ship? An shipper owned container (SOC) will give you the space to store your cargo. Does your consignee have somewhere to store the cargo once received? A shipper owned container can be the easy option. Added bonus: your consignee can repurpose or sell the container once the cargo is removed.

FAQs

 
  • All steamship lines require shipper owned containers (SOC) to be surveyed to ensure units are suitable for transport (cargoworthy, IICL or new). We have a network of trusted, licensed surveyors that complete a full inspection of the unit. If unit is not deemed CW, repairs will be made to bring the unit up to CW requirements. Wind & Water Tight (WWT) containers are not suitable for shipping, as they do not have a valid CSC plate.

  • The rule of thumb is to allow about five business days for the survey to be completed.

  • The answer to this question will depend on the commodity you are shipping. Knowing what type of cargo before purchasing the unit is incredibly important and will impact the inspection criteria.

    For foodstuff, we would recommend a food-grade cargo worthy or better. For heavier commodities (scrap metal, marble slabs, etc.), we would recommend a container have a sound understructure.

    For most commodities, a cargo worthy (CW) container should suit your needs.

  • Most surveys are valid up to 30 months.