Canada Cargo and container shipping information 

Shipping goods via cargo can be a very complex logistical task. Before contacting cargo shipping companies and asking for quotes, it is a good idea to understand the industry in order to make an informed decision on what option is best for your needs. It might also be an idea to simply hire a Canadian Moving Company to take care of the move for you instead of trying to consolidate the shipment on your own.

Generally, the modern ocean shipping business is divided into two classes:

1. Liner business: typically (but not exclusively) container vessels (wherein "general cargo" is carried in 20 or 40-foot "boxes"), operating as "common carriers", calling a regularly-published schedule of ports. A common carrier refers to a regulated service where any member of the public may book cargo for shipment, according to long-established and internationally agreed rules.

2. Tramp-tanker business: generally this is private business arranged between the shipper and receiver and facilitated by the vessel owners or operators, who offer their vessels for hire to carry bulk (dry or liquid) or break bulk (cargoes with individually handled pieces) to any suitable port(s) in the world, according to a specifically drawn contract, called a charter party.

Larger cargo ships are generally operated by shipping lines: companies that specialize in the handling of cargo in general. Smaller vessels, such as coasters, are often owned by their operators.

What cargo container size is right for you?

While the answer might sometimes seem simple and easy. Container size is not the only factor to take into consideration in the cargo shipping business. Ship routes, seasons and transit time must also be considered. Just like airlines, some flights are direct and some are stop overs, some are first class and some economy. The same applies to the cargo shipping industry.

Unless you are selling extremely huge machinery that requires the full 40 foot containers, don't base you decision on container size alone. Two 20 feet containers on the right routes and the right time with the right carrier can often be more economical that choosing the cheaper in theory but not in practice 40 foot container.