Shipper-Owned Containers (SOCs) provide international freight forwarders with greater control, flexibility, and independence in their shipping operations compared to Carrier-Owned Containers (COCs). By purchasing or leasing SOCs, businesses can manage their own container assets, reducing reliance on shipping lines and optimizing logistics efficiency.
Since 2022, SOCs have gained significant popularity and are projected to see continued growth due to their cost-saving benefits and operational advantages.
How SOCs Save Time & Money
Owning your own shipping container enables you to have full control over your loading and unloading schedule, eliminating unnecessary delays. It helps you avoid costly demurrage fees that accumulate when using carrier-owned containers. Additionally, SOCs enhance security and provide on-site storage options, allowing you to keep your goods safe without relying on external warehouses. They also give you the flexibility to negotiate better shipping rates and select the most cost-effective carriers. Furthermore, SOCs offer unrestricted movement, allowing cargo to be transported to any port or inland destination worldwide without limitations. Here are some additional benefits:
1. Flexible Loading & Unloading Times
With SOCs: You can load or unload at your location, on your schedule. This is especially beneficial for projects requiring extended time, such as machinery breakdowns or accumulating donated goods over several weeks.
The Alternative: Using a shipping line container comes with demurrage fees, which are daily or weekly rental charges applied by shipping lines. These fees can become cost-prohibitive if loading or unloading takes longer than a day or two. Demurrage applies both at the origin (loading site) and the destination (unloading site), increasing expenses significantly.
2. Enhanced Security & On-Site Storage
With SOCs: You have the container at your location, providing a secure storage space for your goods.
The Alternative: Due to demurrage costs, many businesses are forced to store their goods in separate warehouses or temporary on-site locations before loading into a carrier container. This adds extra handling, risk, and expense.
3. More Shipping Options & Cost Savings
With SOCs: You are not tied to a single shipping line. Instead, you can shop around for the best rates and service schedules, optimizing costs and transit times.
The Alternative: Using a carrier-owned container means you must use that shipping line’s services, which may limit your options in terms of cost, transit time, and available ports.
4. Freedom to Move Anywhere (Port or Inland)
With SOCs: Your container can be transported to any port worldwide served by a steamship line. Additionally, it can move inland to any country without needing to be unloaded at the nearest port facility.
The Alternative: Carrier-owned containers often need to be returned to the shipping line at a designated location, restricting inland transportation flexibility.
Ready to purchase a shipping container? Reach out today to get a quote from the best in the industry!
How to Buy a Shipper-Owned Container (SOC)
Buying an SOC is easy with Container Sales Group. Call us at (708) 639-4783 to discuss your container needs. Since 1998, we have helped businesses, international freight forwarders, and individuals across the U.S. secure high-quality SOCs for their shipping and storage needs.
Take control of your logistics today—own your container and enjoy greater efficiency, flexibility, and saving
