Online Container Shipping Booking - The Modern Approach

 Container shipping is an integral part of international trade. 90% of the world’s exports & imports of large sizes are carried out by ocean freight. Sending goods across the sea is an economic option as it can carry thousands of kilograms of weight in just one container. Safe, secure, and economic shipping through containers has been one of the oldest goods transport modes. 



Shipping containers come in various sizes and modifications to transport all types of goods across the sea without any damage or deterioration in quality. To name a few, shipping containers are 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot in length with a variation of the high cube in all these dimensions. They can be dry containers, reefer containers, or special tank containers depending on the goods being transported.


Container Shipping Booking Options


The process of booking shipping containers is one that requires a lot of documentation when done offline. This process has been simplified by the implementation of software solutions. There are several platforms that facilitate online container shipping booking. As it is the modern approach to domestic and international shipping, making it a preferred choice of several enterprises & businesses across the globe. 


Regardless of which mode of container booking you choose – a local freight forwarder or online booking, there are a few basics to the right approach:


  1. Choosing a Trustworthy Service Provider-

Look for shipping service providers who have been in the business for a long time. Their experience in handling port shutdowns, rerouting, worker strikes, and warehousing issues allows them to bring their expertise into use. They have solid solutions for adverse conditions. Backed with the latest technology, they become the most trustworthy industry experts.


  1. Filling in the correct details-

You need to be very considerate while booking an online shipping container. Keep all information regarding your shipment ready at hand. You are most likely to come across the below choices: 

  1. Type of Transport- Domestic or International

  2. Source and Destination Details- Name of the ports from where you will send and receive goods.

  3. Type of Shipment- Put in your type of shipment as FCL (Full container Load) or LCL (Less than container Load) based on the size of your shipment. This will further require the number of containers you will need in case of booking FCL or the size and dimensions of the goods in case of LCL container booking.

  4. Dates of cargo loading and shipping- Cargo ready or loading date is the date when you want the cargo to be loaded in a container from the warehouse, whether sailing on a different date. The cargo shipping date is the date you want the cargo to be shipped.

  5. Type of Goods- You will be required to fill in the details of the type of goods you are transporting. It is important to mention here, if you are transporting hazardous material.


Shipping container rates-

Any software that enables you to book a Container shipping International online, will give you the estimated quotes based on your distance and type of cargo. Generally, these rates vary from size to size. There is an obvious hike of 20-30% in 40-foot containers than in 20-foot containers. Try to take shipping rates quotes from different logistics providers and calculate what suits your budget the most.


Payment for booking shipping container-

A good service provider will have more than one option to pay for container booking. Choose the one that best suits your needs and complete the payment process.


Once done with the payment, your booking will be confirmed. Based on this you will be able to track your shipment right from the source to the end. Some software also allows you to track your shipment in real-time. CARGOES Logistics is one such single window digital solution for all logistics needs that offers end-to-end visibility for both domestic and international container booking. 


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