Relocating with an SOC
Want to relocate with your own container (SOC)?
If you are looking to move overseas using your own container, aka shipper owned containers (SOC), it might be trickier than you think. Relocating with an SOC may require a bit more planning but it pays out when you can use the container as storage while getting settled in and saving some money.
International Moving Companies
When relocating overseas, an international moving company will pack and load the container but in most cases will outsource the international logistics. This simply means that the moving company contracts a freight forwarder, who then contracts the steamship line, who then provides its own container and transportation. This option is the most convenient since the moving company will take care of everything. However, it could cost more money with little flexibility as to how long you can have the container for. Going directly to the freight forwarder yourself to use your own container may be an option and eliminate the risk of demurrage and detention. Learn More
If using your own container, here’s what you will need to do:
1: Contact a Freight Forwarder
– Make sure they can handle ”household goods”.
– Tell them you plan to relocate and are interested in an SOC. They will most likely provide a trust worthy container supplier or source a container directly for you.
– Make sure the freight rate, includes trucking (pick up and drop off)
– They will handle all paper work, customs, trucking, and shipping.
2. Purchase a container (SOC)
– Find a container supplier on the web if your freight forwarder could not provide one.
– Request to have the container inspected and certified to cargo worthy, ensure interior cleanliness. The freight forwarder will need inspection papers from the surveyor to book the vessel. Learn More
– You can request a trucking quote for loading to compare with the freight forwarder’s offer. Note not all container suppliers offer this.
3. Load and Offload
– If needed, contact local movers to pack and load the container, you might want to do the same thing at destination.
– If you plan on keeping the container at your property for some time make sure you make it clear to the trucking company that you need it delivered to the ground.
