Ocean freight costs for standard containers are straightforward. If you’re
importing goods in a standard container (e.g., 20Ft, 40Ft, or 40 HQ), the ocean
freight cost is consistent and predictable. The container serves as the packaging
for your goods, and as long as your container’s dimensions match the standard
specifications, the freight cost will align with industry norms.

Custom containers are a different story. If you’re dealing with custom
containers, particularly ones with non-standard dimensions, you need to be
aware of the following:

1. Small Containers (e.g., 10Ft): Shipping smaller containers can be
challenging. We recommend purchasing two 10Ft containers together to
make it easier to book vessel space. Otherwise, you may have to wait until
another company also ships a 10Ft container, so the shipping company can
combine them to form a standard 20Ft space.

2. Height Variations: For a custom container with non-standard height,
even if the length matches a standard container (e.g., 20Ft), the ocean
freight cost may increase. For example, a 20Ft container with a height
greater than the standard 2380mm could incur additional charges. As an
illustration, in July, we shipped a 20 HQ to New Zealand, and the ocean
freight was USD $850 higher than the cost for a standard 20’GP.

CCS Certificate Costs

When dealing with custom containers, another critical aspect to consider is
the cost of obtaining a China Classification Society (CCS) certificate. This
certificate ensures that your custom container is strong enough to be stacked
on a vessel, just like a standard shipping container. Here are the three possible
scenarios:

1. Existing Design Certificate: If the supplier has already produced the
same design before and has an existing CCS certificate, you’ll only need
to pay for the certificate copy. The cost typically ranges from USD $500
to USD $715, depending on the manufacturer.

2. New Design Certificate: If your container has a completely new design,
the manufacturer will need to apply for a new CCS certificate. This
process is more expensive, with costs around USD $2,857.

3. No CCS Certificate Required: In some cases, you might not need a CCS
certificate at all. This is possible if your container will be shipped via a
bulk carrier instead of being stacked on a vessel like a standard container.
In such scenarios, the certificate isn’t necessary, saving you the associated
costs.

Conclusion

When buying standard or custom containers from China, it’s essential to
consider both the ocean freight costs and the potential need for a CCS
certificate. For standard containers, costs are predictable, but for custom
containers, factors like size and design can lead to higher shipping and
certification expenses. Always consult with your forwarder and manufacturer
to ensure you have a clear understanding of all costs involved.