Container shipping to Tacoma, Washington is a reliable and efficient solution for transporting vehicles, household goods, heavy machinery, and commercial cargo within the USA and to international destinations. The Port of Tacoma, part of the Northwest Seaport Alliance, is one of the largest and most advanced ports on the U.S. West Coast, serving Asia-Pacific and global trade routes. Whether you are shipping a container to or from Tacoma for domestic or international purposes, professional container shipping ensures secure handling and timely delivery.
At All Transport Depot, we provide professional container shipping services to Tacoma with complete end-to-end logistics support. Our services include inland trucking, port handling, container loading, and international ocean freight coordination. With transparent pricing and expert planning, we ensure your shipment moves smoothly through the Port of Tacoma.
Container Shipping Methods
Our Container shipping offers flexible solutions for shipping vehicles, household goods, and commercial cargo. Depending on your shipment size and budget, you can choose between Full Container Load (FCL) for exclusive use or Less than Container Load (LCL) for shared, cost-effective shipping, along with specialized containers for oversized cargo.
Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping
Best for large or exclusive shipments
- Dedicated 20ft or 40ft container
- Maximum security and privacy
- Faster transit with no shared cargo
Less than Container Load (LCL)
Good for smaller shipments
- Cost-effective for low-volume shipments
- Suitable for boxes, pallets and goods
- Easy shipping without full container cost
Specialized Container
For oversized or heavy cargo
- Open Top containers for tall cargo
- Flat Rack containers for heavy machinery
- Secure loading with professional handling
Container Sizes Available for Shipping
When planning container shipping, selecting the right container size is essential for ensuring cargo safety, cost efficiency, and smooth transit. Different container sizes are designed to accommodate everything from personal belongings and vehicles to heavy machinery and oversized cargo. Below are the most commonly used container options available for shipping to destination country.
20ft Shipping Container
The 20ft container is one of the most popular choices for international container shipping to XXX. It is ideal for small to medium-sized shipments and offers a cost-effective solution for transporting cargo securely.
Best suited for:
- One vehicle or SUV
- Household goods and personal effects
- Small commercial shipments
40ft Shipping Container
A 40ft container provides nearly double the space of a 20ft container, making it suitable for large shipments or multiple items. It is commonly used for business cargo, relocation shipments, and multiple vehicles.
Best suited for:
- Multiple vehicles
- Large household relocations
- Bulk commercial cargo
Open Top Container
Open top containers are designed for cargo that cannot be loaded through standard container doors due to height or shape. Cargo is loaded from the top using cranes and secured properly for ocean transport.
Best suited for:
- Tall or oversized machinery
- Construction equipment
- Industrial cargo
Flat Rack Container
Flat rack containers are used for heavy, wide, or irregularly shaped cargo that does not fit inside standard containers. These containers have open sides and are specially designed for oversized and heavy loads.
Best suited for:
- Heavy machinery
- Construction and mining equipment
- Large industrial components
What Can Be Shipped in a Container
Container shipping allows a wide range of cargo types to be transported safely and efficiently. Whether you are shipping personal belongings or commercial freight, containers provide secure, weather-protected space suitable for almost all types of goods. Below are the most common items shipped in containers.
Vehicles (Cars, SUVs & Motorcycles)Cars, SUVs, and motorcycles can be safely shipped in 20ft or 40ft containers, offering maximum protection during transit. Container shipping is especially preferred for luxury, classic, or non-running vehicles.
Household Goods & Personal EffectsContainer shipping is ideal for relocating household items such as furniture, appliances, electronics, and personal belongings. Both FCL and LCL shipping options are available depending on shipment size.
Commercial Cargo & General FreightBusinesses commonly use container shipping to XXX for transporting retail goods, inventory, raw materials, and packaged commercial products in bulk.
Heavy Machinery & Industrial EquipmentConstruction equipment, agricultural machinery, and industrial tools can be shipped using standard containers, open top containers, or flat rack containers, depending on size and weight.
Oversized & Project CargoLarge or irregularly shaped cargo that exceeds standard container dimensions can be shipped using flat rack or open top containers, ensuring secure handling for specialized shipments.
Safe & Secure Shipping for All Cargo TypesContainer shipping to XXX provides excellent protection against weather, handling damage, and theft, making it a reliable solution for both personal and commercial shipments.
Container Shipping Process (Step-by-Step)
Container shipping follows a simple and structured process to ensure safe and timely delivery.
Step 1: Request a shipping quote by sharing cargo details and destination.
Step 2: Book the container and confirm the sailing schedule.
Step 3: Load and secure cargo inside the container.
Step 4: Prepare documents and complete export clearance.
Step 5: Ocean freight transit to the destination country.
Step 6: Customs clearance at the destination port.
Step 7: Final delivery or port pickup.
Required Documents for Container Shipping
To ensure smooth and compliant container shipping, certain documents are required for export and import clearance. Having accurate paperwork helps avoid delays, penalties, and customs issues.
Commonly Required Documents
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Bill of Lading (B/L) – Proof of shipment and ownership
-
Commercial Invoice – Details of cargo value and description
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Packing List – Itemized list of goods inside the container
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Passport or Company ID – For personal or commercial shipments
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Import Permit (if required) – Based on cargo type and destination regulations
Additional documents may be needed depending on the nature of the cargo and local customs requirements in the destination country.
We operate and coordinate loading through strategically located U.S. facilities, providing flexible, reliable, and nationwide coverage for a wide range of cargo, including vehicles, household goods, commercial freight, and HAZMAT-compliant shipments.
Our primary loading locations include:
- Savannah, GA
- Atlanta, GA
- Los Angeles, CA
- Elizabeth, NJ
- Tacoma, WA
- Chicago, IL
In addition to facility-based loading, we also offer container door-to-ocean service, allowing a container to be delivered directly to a residence or commercial property for on-site loading, subject to access, safety, and scheduling requirements.
On-Site Container Loading Guidelines
We will deliver the ordered container to your location on the scheduled date and arrange return once loading is completed.
Important Loading Conditions
- The container will arrive on a chassis and will remain on the chassis at all times
- The container will not be placed on the ground
- The client is fully responsible for all loading activities
- Two (2) hours of free loading time are included
- Additional loading time: rate to be advised
- Weekend option: additional surcharge applies (Friday drop-off with Sunday pick-up after 5:00 PM)
- A 4-hour delivery window will be assigned, subject to traffic and scheduling conditions
- Vehicles or machinery require a proper loading ramp or dock
- Household goods may be lifted off the chassis only at the client’s cost and responsibility
- The client must ensure all required loading equipment is available, including but not limited to:
- Ramps
- Loading docks
- Forklifts
- Cranes or lifting services
- If the container is not ready for pickup on the scheduled date, a $250 per day delay surcharge will apply
- These guidelines ensure safe loading, operational efficiency, and compliance with carrier and port requirements.
About the Port of Tacoma
The Port of Tacoma is a major deep-water port located in Washington State, forming part of the Northwest Seaport Alliance with the Port of Seattle.
- Major gateway for Asia–Pacific trade
- Advanced container terminals and intermodal rail connections
- Efficient customs and cargo handling facilities
Container Shipping Services to Tacoma
Container shipping through Tacoma supports a wide range of cargo types.
- Automobiles, SUVs, and trucks
- Heavy machinery and industrial equipment
- Commercial goods and retail cargo
- Project and oversized shipments
Transit Time for Container Shipping to Tacoma
Transit time for container shipping to Tacoma depends on origin and route. Domestic shipments typically arrive within 2 to 7 days, while international containers arriving from Asia usually reach Tacoma within 12 to 25 days.
Why Ship Containers Through Tacoma?
- Strategic West Coast location
- Fast access to Asia-Pacific markets
- Strong rail and highway connectivity
- Modern port infrastructure with reduced congestion
FAQs
Is Tacoma a major container port?
Yes, Tacoma is one of the largest and most important container ports on the U.S. West Coast.
Can I ship vehicles in containers through Tacoma?
Yes, vehicles and heavy equipment can be safely shipped in containers through the Port of Tacoma.
Do you provide inland transport to and from Tacoma?
Yes, All Transport Depot offers full inland trucking and logistics services.
What is the cheapest way to ship cargo?
For smaller shipments, LCL shipping is the most cost-effective option. For larger shipments, FCL shipping provides better security and value.
How much does it cost to ship a container?
On average, container shipping costs $2,600–$4,200 for a 20ft container and $4,600–$7,200 for a 40ft container, depending on routing and cargo type.
✈️ Get a Container Shipping Quote Today
Ready to ship your Container? Here’s what we’ll need to get started:
📧 Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Phone: +1 (678) 528-5794
At All TransportDepot Inc., we ensure premium service for safe, secure, and reliable car air shipping worldwide.
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Jessica is a dedicated customer service representative at Windy City Car Carriers. Her warm and friendly demeanor puts customers at ease as she guides them through the car shipping process. She takes pride in ensuring a stress-free experience for every client.