Who Can Move a Shipping Container?

Shipping containers should be transported only by licensed commercial carriers with hands-on experience and specialized equipment needed for the move. The complex nature of the containers, including their overweight and oversized status, means not all trucking or moving companies qualify to move them.

Why a Standard Moving Company Can't Handle Shipping Container Moving

A standard moving company is limited in its ability to ship containers for obvious reasons. That is;

  • The size and weight differences between standard moving trucks and steel shipping containers deny a standard moving company the specialized equipment and expertise to handle shipping containers safely and effectively.
  • Regulatory requirements are much stricter for shipping container moving companies than for standard moving companies, for instance, regarding insurance.
  • Port access when handling shipping containers may require terminal registration, which is not necessarily available to standard moving companies.
  • Truck ratings for standard household moving companies differ from those for shipping container moving companies.
  • Liability exposure for the customer if an unqualified company handles their shipping container transport is significant, including potential insurance claim denials.

Standard moving companies lack the fundamentals of container moving, thereby risking clients’ interests.

Crane loading a conex container

A qualified container hauler needs the right documentation, resources, and experience to fulfill their mandate. That is to safely and legally assist clients with their container-moving needs.

The required licenses include:
  • The USDOT Number, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, authorizes the hauler to operate interstate commercial vehicles.
  • The Motor Carrier (MC) Authority is issued by the FMCSA and allows interstate transport as a for-hire carrier.
The required commercial vehicle equipment includes:
  • A container chassis. The most common specialized trailer for moving shipping containers.
  • Flatbed trailers. The best for containers that need to be loaded and unloaded by cranes.
  • Specialized trailers, such as Landoll trailers. Used to handle containers when standard chassis or cranes are not available. They make it seamless to place the container directly on the ground. 
  • Semi-trucks or tractors for handling heavy containers.
  • Twist locks, tie-downs, and other securement tools for safe and stable transport of containers.
  • Heavy lifting equipment such as cranes and reach stackers.

What Are the Insurance Minimums for Commercial Freight Carriers?

Insurance minimums are set by the FMCSA based on vehicle weight and cargo. They are mandatory for compliance and allow interstate commerce. For instance:

  • Cargo insurance protects the freight during shipment. It varies depending on customer requirements and cargo.
  • Light non-hazardous freight carriers with vehicles exceeding 10,001 lbs. require $300,000 coverage.
  • General freight carriers exceeding the same weight require $750,000.
  • However, most shippers require $1,000,000 irrespective of cargo type.

Working with a licensed container hauler matters to you in:

  • Ensuring they are legally authorized to operate, guaranteeing compliance with federal and state regulations, and preventing fines and delays.
  • Protecting you from liability in the event of an accident.
  • Confirming the haulers’ uninterrupted access to restricted areas such as ports and rail terminals when necessary.

It’s advisable to ensure your due diligence before settling on a service provider.

Container being transported

Understanding the difference between a container moving company and a freight broker helps you find the right assistance.

Container Moving Company (Asset-Based Carrier)Freight Broker
They own or lease chassis, trucks, trailers, and other equipment used for movingThey do not own equipment
They have their own drivers or hire them based on contractsThey arrange transport by matching you to a licensed carrier
Customers communicate directly with the carrier Customers do not communicate directly with the carriers except through the freight brokers
They are associated with lower risks and are directly liableThey have a higher risk factor as they may hire unvetted carriers, which can result in delays, equipment problems, fines, poor communication, noncompliance, and insurance complications

A container moving company, also referred to as an asset-based carrier, directly handles container transport, as they are well-equipped with the relevant resources, whereas freight brokers rely on external carriers to arrange shipments. A container moving company, such as Container Transport, is the go-to for moving shipping containers, while freight brokers are preferable for flexibility and access to multiple carriers.

What Credentials Should You Look for When Hiring?

The right container moving company is not based solely on the cost of the move, but also on credentials and reputation. It’s advisable to evaluate:

  • Active USDOT and MC numbers, which are verifiable by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
  • Proof of Cargo and Liability Insurance, including commercial auto liability insurance and cargo insurance for the shipment’s safety during transit. Ocean container moves necessitate additional coverage for intermodal transport.
  • Container Hauling Experience that’s not limited to general freight. Ask for their frequency in handling container moves. That is;
  • How often do they handle empty and loaded containers?
  • port and rail pickups
  • overweight and oversized container moves 
  • Track Record, Review, and References through revising the recent client reviews on the company’s official website or asking for references from customers who have had similar requirements to your own.

A satisfactory analysis of the above factors can help avoid unforeseen risks and boost your confidence in the company you select. 

Loading a container

Yes, however, both require the same standard of professionalism and adherence to applicable laws and regulations in their respective areas of operation, including insurance coverage and licensing. The difference mainly arises from the move's complexity and frequency. That is:

Homeowners Businesses
Often one-time moves Usually, recurring projects
Mainly involves relocations to or from storage private property Mostly involves transporting loaded containers between rail terminals, ports, distribution centers, and warehouses
They often lack knowledge on container moving and require elaborate guidance They typically have established procedures and documentation processes on shipping
Site access poses more challenges due to hindrances such as narrow roads and overhead clearances Access mostly requires coordination with rail yards, ports and warehouses
They often have flexible timelines as they require help deciding on the best options They have stricter timelines often involving supply chain deadlines and appointment schedules
Mainly limited to a single container move Can involve multiple containers at a time or require ongoing operations

Why Choose Container Transport?

Container Transport is the best shipping container moving company in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. We have a proven track record and multiple positive client reviews. We have experience handling all commercial container moves, making us well-suited to clients’ needs. We are fully insured, licensed, and bonded. Our services meet the legal requirements to protect your interests. We are available 365 days a year for direct quoting via email, by phone, or by filling out our short forms. Reach out.

Loading a conex container

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