Cost of Shipping Container:
Freight Rates for 20ft & 40ft Containers
Container shipping plays a major role in transporting belongings worldwide, connecting retailers and manufacturers to maintain the global supply chain. Understanding container shipping costs is significantly important for world business operators and freight forwarders to optimize logistics operations. That’s because determining costs will let you select the most suitable shipping container from the port of origin to the port of destination, by all means. Cost transparency will help you with:
  • Budget Planning
  • Price Control
  • Operational Efficiency
  • Reliability & Satisfaction
  • Cost-effective Shipping

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Container Shipping Costs for Major Global Routes (Asia, Europe, America)
Shipping RoutesShipping CostDelivery Time
New York To Amsterdam
(1-5 CBM)- From $694-1656
(5-10 CBM)- From $1656-2459
From 15-45 Days
New York To Shanghai
(1-5 CBM)- From $856-3344
(5-10 CBM)- From 3344-5939
From 20-45 Days
Amsterdam To Shanghai
(1-5 CBM)- From $740-2500
(5-10 CBM)- From $3000-5400
From 30-45 Days
Table of content
1. Cost of Shipping Container: Freight Rates for 20ft & 40ft Containers
1.2 Container Shipping Costs for Major Global Routes (Asia, Europe, America)
2. Container Shipping Calculator
3. Introduction to Container Shipping Costs
4. Average Costs of Container Shipping From One to Another Country
5. Factors Influencing the Container Shipping Costs
6. 40 and 20 Foot Container Shipping Costs, Charter and Prices
7. A Detailed Insight Into Container Shipping Costs and Trends
8. FCL and LCL Container Shipping Costs With Weight & Volume
9. Table- FCL and LCL Shipping Costs
10. Table- Cargo Volume and Weight
11. Container Types Influencing Shipping Container Cost
12. Shipping Rate as per the Distance | Supplier to the Port in China and Port to the Destination in the USA
13. List of Shipping Carriers For Origin to Destination Delivery
14. Shipping from Origin To Port & Port to Destination | Distance Impacting Container Shipping Costs
15. Additional Factors Affecting Container Shipping Costs Explained
16. Container Shipping Costs from Origin To Destination | Step by Step Breakdown
17. How To Get Cost Quote For Origin To Destination Port
18. Start Your Shipment Consignment Journey With Us Today
Container Shipping Calculator
Introduction to Container Shipping Costs
The cost of the shipping container is simply the applicable amount of transferring goods from one port to another port either by air or sea freight. When businesses want to optimize their growth, import, and export majorly help increase sales potential.
The average container shipping costs can be different from port to port and country to country based on several primary factors. The shipping charges substantially increase or decrease due to any ongoing or unforeseen condition.
Why Are Container Shipping Rates Important?
Container shipping rates hold significant importance when it comes to moving containers from the port of origin to the port of destination. That’s because these container freight prices will affect the whole process of transportation in any part of Europe and Asia. Additionally, they can impact:
  • Business Supply Chain
  • Product Availability
  • Global Purchasing Power
Average Costs of Container Shipping From One to Another Country
Moving container costs for goods from port to port and country to country differs majorly depending on several key factors that are given below:
Chosen Route
Container freight cost is dependent on the route you select from the port of origin to the port of destination. The routes can be in the East, West, North, and South of the country you are moving goods from and to.
Number of Days
Additionally, the number of days it takes to deliver the shipment affects the price factor. That’s because the estimated time can exceed depending on any unforeseen delay during goods transportation.
Here, we’re going to elaborate on average container shipping costs through a table.
Factors Influencing the Container Shipping Costs
The container freight charges are greatly influenced by some factors like global container demand and customer requirements. However, certain other factors that can impact the moving container shipping costs are listed below.
  • Container Type & Size
  • Container sizes are different, so, 20 to 40-foot container shipping costs can vary. Additionally, based on dry, refrigerated, special-dimensioned, and FCL/LCL shipping container types, prices can fluctuate.
  • Distance and Route
  • The selected route and approximate distance can also make an impact on prices. The more the shipping distance, the higher the prices will be from the port of origin to the port of destination.
  • Container’s Availability
  • Another factor that could result in price variation is the availability of the desired container. The custom selection of containers will definitely impact the international container shipping cost.
  • Cargo Volume & Weight
  • Next up, the weight and volume of cargo can cause price fluctuations. That’s because the cargo sometimes takes more space due to volume and demands more driving hours due to weight.
  • Shipping Method
  • Shipping mode is another crucial aspect that influences the overall costs. Based on land, air, and ocean freight shipping, the charges can be different for different ports and destinations.
  • Seasonal Variation
  • Seasonal and climatic conditions are often the reason for delays and difficulties in shipping goods from one port to the other. Rain, snowfall, and other route hurdles can result in additional routes.
  • Fuel Fluctuations
  • Oil prices directly impact operating costs because the higher market price of fuel can lead to a higher rate of cargo delivery. So, it is advised to reconsider sea freight shipping during the fuel price inflation.
  • Economic Factors
  • Economic factors can also be the reason that impacts the container shipping costs. Conditions like local events, international holidays, and other unforeseen situations can increase transportation costs.
  • Market Demand
  • Market demand for container availability and good supply and exchange directly results in cost variation. As market conditions rapidly change, it is advised to get an up-to-date quote for shipping charges.
  • Additional Factors
  • Other factors are duty tax fees, document clearance, insurance, transshipments, and last-mile delivery that disrupt the existing price estimates. Tax charges for every country can greatly vary.
How to Get an Estimate For Container Shipping Costs
As a goods supplier, it is your right to know how much does it costs to ship a container. Sea freight rates can vary for every freight to be transited. However, for customers' convenience, reliable shipping, and cost transparency, they can get an estimate for the container shipping costs. Here are some ways for cost calculation or quotes.
  • Contact Shipper/Freight Forwarder
  • Getting in touch directly with the freight carrier can help you get the price quote. Additionally, you can negotiate with freight forwarders to discuss your deal and budget.
  • Use Container Shipping Cost Calculator
  • The next thing is the use of a calculator to get an estimate for the container shipping costs. This calculator is designed with a database to generate an estimate for freight rates from the port of origin to the port of destination along with the type of cargo to be transported. Below is the table which demonstrates the price calculator with examples.
40 and 20 Foot Container Shipping Costs, Charter and Prices
Container 20 Standard
Container 40 Standard
The product consignment from one industry to another company internationally affects prices based on the type of container load. The container shipping costs can vary with a 20 ft and 40 ft container type. Here is the table for consumers to analyze the approximate expense of moving container shipment.
Destination Port20-Foot Container Shipping Costs (USD)40-Foot Container Shipping Costs
East Coast of USA (New York)
(1-5 CBM)- From $694-1656
(5-10 CBM)- From $1656-2459
From 15-45 Days
West Coast of USA (Los Angeles)
(1-5 CBM)- From $856-3344
(5-10 CBM)- From 3344-5939
From 20-45 Days
Note: These are the estimated values and terms that are just for reference. You can request a free cost estimate for your specified route based on your cargo and container types.
A Detailed Insight Into Container Shipping Costs and Trends
Ocean freight rates continuously show variation depending on temperature changes, economic conditions, container and loading types, and insurance and customs duty fees. However, to help you out with your shipment from any country to the United States of America, here are some ocean freight rates and trends explained:
  • As per the global ocean container index, the market remained stable last week but it’s rising in the ongoing week because of congestion and strong demand in both the East and West Mediterranean.
  • The fluctuation in container shipping costs is affected by the current issues in the Red Sea. That’s the reason, the shipping rates also increase.
  • For the first time since the pandemic, entries of regional traders in transpacific trade have been noticed. These traders are pressured to lower volume lanes, attracting high spot rates.
  • The seasonal goods are currently being shipped earlier to avoid any delays, creating a surge in market demand and resulting in price inflation.
  • Importers are easing down peak season pressure from August, increasing shipments, and beating the rollout of tariffs.
  • The National Retail Foundation forecast provides an estimate of the imports that peaked at 2.17 million TEU and caused a high congestion rate in previous months.
FCL and LCL Container Shipping Costs With Weight & Volume
Other than 20ft to 40ft, container shipping costs for international exports can also depend on the type of loading including full container loading (FCL) and less than containers loading (LCL) and weight in CBM. The average cost of a shipping container differs depending on the type of load, trade lane, and rate stability.
Full Container Load
FCL is the cost-effective option for shipping commodities which takes a lot of space. The rates for FCL are more volatile than LCL and it carries (less than 15 CBM).
Less than Container Load
LCL shipping is usually more expensive per unit than FCL. It takes less and more specific (less than 15 CBM) cargo volume in the container.
Table- FCL and LCL Shipping Costs
Shipping Container TypeCargo weight/ VolumeTotal Costs
LCL Shipping
(1-5 CBM)From $800-1600
FCL Shipping
(5-10 CBM)From $2600-4000
  • FCL: For international moves, a full container load charges about $4000 which is approximately 27-30% more than LCL.
  • LCL: Likewise, less than a container load costs about $1600 for an overseas move which is less expensive than FCL.
Table- Cargo Volume and Weight
Cargo VolumeShipping Mode/TrackShipping Specifications
400 Pounds
Land DeliveryConvenient & Efficient
600-1200 Pounds
Air ShippingFast & about 30-40% cheaper than land shipping
Over 1200 Pounds
Sea ShippingSlow but cheapest option for large volumes of shipping

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Container Types Influencing Shipping Container Cost
The cargo container shipping rates majorly impact the overall cost of transporting goods from port to port and country to country. For your convenience, here we’ve listed some of the commonly used containers for sea freight shipment.
Flat Rack Containers
These storage boxes with collapsible sides and removable ends are used to ship heavy equipment and machinery.
Open Top Containers
Like dry storage with no tops, these boxes with plastic structures are used to protect cargo from certain elements.
High Cube Containers
One foot taller than standard dry containers, they are excellent for goods that need high height and storage, for short sea shipping.
Refrigerated Containers
Also named “Reefers,” these containers are used to ship frozen goods that need to be kept cool, often made with steel.
Insulated Containers
Designed to prevent heat or cold transfer, these containers have vacuumed and sealed double walls, preventing moisture from the cargo box.
Open Side Containers
They are just like dry containers but with long sides with open sides that make the access and transfer of goods easier and more efficient.
Dry Containers
These are the most general container type that comes with side walls, floor, and roof, properly enclosed to ship dry cargo.
List of Shipping Carriers For Origin to Destination Delivery
Here’s the list of shipping carriers for transporting goods from one port to another to know about the cost of shipping container.
  • Hapag Lloyd
  • COSCO Shipping
  • Maersk Line
  • Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)
  • CMA CGM Group
  • Evergreen Marine
  • Ocean Network Express (ONE)
  • Evergreen Marine Corporation
  • Zim Integrated Shipping Services
Shipping CarriersOriginCost Estimate for 40-foot Containers
COSCO ShippingChinaFrom $2,200 to $3,500
Maersk LineDenmarkFrom $3,000 to $4,500
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)Switzerland$2,500 to $4,000
CMA CGM GroupFrance$2,600 to $4,200
Evergreen Marine CorporationTaiwanFrom $2,400 to $3,800
Ocean Network Express (ONE)JapanFrom $2,500 to $4,000
Zim Integrated Shipping ServicesIsraelFrom $2,800 to $4,300
Hapag LloydGermanyFrom $2200 to $3800
Shipping from Origin To Port & Port to Destination | Distance Impacting Container Shipping Costs
Shipping container delivery costs can majorly vary based on the origin to the final location. The longer the distance, the higher the cost will be. Depending on the distance, cargo volume, and delivery type, transporting charges can be different.
For instance, an average container shipping from an Asian to a European country can cost from $309-3950. The distance below or more than 100km can have a direct impact on the overall shipping costs. For every extra kilometer or mile, the price range can be different. Therefore, it is suggested to get a detailed price quote and compare the price for the specific and nearest route.
  • Charges for less than 100km: About $300-500
  • Charges for more than 100km: About $1000-3000
Additional Factors Affecting Container Shipping Costs Explained
Carriers Costs
Based on the cargo type and service you choose, carriers' prices can vary.
Cargo Type
Personal, fragile, bulk, frozen, and hazardous cargo types will have an impact on prices.
Port Charges
Depending on terminal handling, the port charges can also differ.
Custom Policies
Custom policies of the specific country (origin/destination) will also impact overall costs.
Duty Tax Fees
Tax implementation from port to port and country to country also shows fluctuations.
Insurance Costs
Insurance on the supplied goods also affects the overall cost of product transportation.
Shipment Consolidation
Consignment consolidation is another factor that influences prices and offers cost-saving.
Packaging/Labelling
These are the additional costs that minimally impact the existing price range of shipment.
Loading/Unloading
Loading and unloading of the shipping consignment adds to the existing transit costs.
Last Mile Delivery
The final phase of the cargo delivery also makes an impact on the container shipping costs.
Other Factors
Some other factors are:
  • Shipping Alliances
  • Pod storage
  • Vessel sharing
  • Port congestion
  • Worker shortage
  • Haulage & drayage
  • Route Blockages
  • Demand Exceed Supply
Container Shipping Costs from Origin To Destination | Step by Step Breakdown
Shipping container costs are an essential factor when it comes to transporting goods from one origin to destination. Every step involves the specific charges that are explained below to ease down the shipping process.
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Step-1: Cargo Transportation from Departure Port
Cargo arrival from industrial or business location to port of departure.
Charges:
  • Transport Fee: from $200-500
  • Loading Fee: from $50-150
Step-2: Cargo Handling at Departure’s Port
The cargo to be shipped is properly checked and prepared for transit.
Charges:
  • Terminal Handling: from $300-500
  • Documentation Fees: from $50-100
Step-3: Carrier & Freight Forwarders Shipping Containers at Sea Freight
It covers the freight forwarding charges from the origin to the final port of destination.
Charges:
  • Forwarding Cost: from $200-500
  • Sea Freight: $3000-5500 for 40-ft container
Step-4: Receiving and Handling Goods At the Port of Destination
Sea container shipping, handling, and unloading from the port of departure to the port of destination.
Charges:
  • Terminal Handling Charges: $400-600/ 40ft container
  • Documentation Fees: $50-100
Step-5: Customs, Documentation, & Clearance at the Destination Port
Shipment goes through proper documentation and clearance process at arriving to the destination port.
Charges:
  • Customs Brokerage: $100-$500
  • Customs Duties: 5% of the cargo value
Step-6: Insurance of the Transported Cargo at the Port
Insurance coverage for broken or damaged goods includes container shipping costs.
Charges:
  • Cargo Value: about 0.5–1.5% of the Cargo Value
  • Cargo Insurance (optional): from $500–$1,500
Step-7: Last Mile Delivery from Port of Destination
When cargo is finalized from the customs process, it is ready to be delivered to the final destination.
Charges:
  • Last Mile Delivery: from $500–$3,000
Note: The mentioned values are for reference while the actual cost can significantly differ based on the cargo type volume, shipment container type and carriers, customs and documentation, and any unforeseen situations.
How To Get Cost Quote For Origin To Destination Port
Although you can get price estimates from the shipment calculator, you can get a detailed quote by registering as a supplier and using an instant freight calculator that offers a detailed database to make your shipment process smooth and convenient like
  • Origin of shipment
  • Destination of shipment
  • Date to Send Consignment
  • Type of shipment
Start Your Shipment Consignment Journey With Us Today
Whether you are moving your goods abroad or need some extra information regarding sea freight container shipping costs, we recommend checking out the pages of the port to port container shipping and country to country container shipping costs to get the requisite shipment details. So, get in touch and have your container ready to go with us!

Do you plan any shipments?

Table of content
1. Cost of Shipping Container: Freight Rates for 20ft & 40ft Containers
1.2 Container Shipping Costs for Major Global Routes (Asia, Europe, America)
2. Container Shipping Calculator
3. Introduction to Container Shipping Costs
4. Average Costs of Container Shipping From One to Another Country
5. Factors Influencing the Container Shipping Costs
6. 40 and 20 Foot Container Shipping Costs, Charter and Prices
7. A Detailed Insight Into Container Shipping Costs and Trends
8. FCL and LCL Container Shipping Costs With Weight & Volume
9. Table- FCL and LCL Shipping Costs
10. Table- Cargo Volume and Weight
11. Container Types Influencing Shipping Container Cost
12. Shipping Rate as per the Distance | Supplier to the Port in China and Port to the Destination in the USA
13. List of Shipping Carriers For Origin to Destination Delivery
14. Shipping from Origin To Port & Port to Destination | Distance Impacting Container Shipping Costs
15. Additional Factors Affecting Container Shipping Costs Explained
16. Container Shipping Costs from Origin To Destination | Step by Step Breakdown
17. How To Get Cost Quote For Origin To Destination Port
18. Start Your Shipment Consignment Journey With Us Today
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Custo do transporte de contêineres: taxas de frete para contêineres de 20 pés e 40 pés