Shipping a container to Trinidad & Tobago from the USA is a secure and efficient way to transport vehicles, household goods, or commercial cargo. The islands’ strategic location in the Caribbean and well-developed port infrastructure ensure smooth handling and timely delivery for personal and business shipments.

Why Ship a Container to Trinidad & Tobago?

Trinidad & Tobago is a major hub for Caribbean trade, making it an ideal destination for containerized cargo. Container shipping provides security, flexibility, and cost efficiency for various types of goods.

  • Secure: Protects your cargo throughout transit.

  • Cost-effective: More affordable than air freight for large or bulk shipments.

  • Flexible: Suitable for vehicles, personal belongings, and commercial goods.

  • Efficient: Ports in Trinidad & Tobago are well connected to major U.S. shipping routes.

Types of Containers for Shipping to Trinidad & Tobago

Choosing the right container ensures your shipment is handled safely and efficiently. Container options accommodate vehicles, oversized machinery, household goods, and temperature-sensitive products.

  • 20ft Standard Container: Ideal for one vehicle or small shipments.

  • 40ft Standard Container: Best for multiple vehicles or large household/commercial cargo.

  • High Cube Container: Offers extra height for oversized loads.

  • Refrigerated Container (Reefer): Keeps perishable goods at controlled temperatures.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Container to Trinidad & Tobago?

Transit time depends on the departure port in the USA and customs processing at the destination. Thanks to efficient port operations, shipments typically arrive on schedule.

  • East Coast USA → Trinidad & Tobago: 7–12 days

  • Gulf Coast USA → Trinidad & Tobago: 10–15 days

  • West Coast USA → Trinidad & Tobago: 18–25 days

Cost to Ship a 20ft Container to Trinidad & Tobago

A 20ft container is perfect for single vehicles, personal effects, or smaller commercial shipments. Costs vary based on departure port and cargo type.

  • From East Coast (New York, Baltimore): $1,200 – $1,700

  • From Gulf Coast (Houston, New Orleans): $1,400 – $2,000

  • From West Coast (Los Angeles, Seattle): $1,800 – $2,600

Cost to Ship a 40ft Container to Trinidad & Tobago

A 40ft container is ideal for larger shipments, multiple vehicles, or bulk commercial goods, offering excellent value for volume transport.

  • From East Coast USA: $2,300 – $3,100

  • From Gulf Coast USA: $2,500 – $3,400

  • From West Coast USA: $3,100 – $4,200

Factors Affecting Shipping Costs

Several elements influence container shipping rates to Trinidad & Tobago. Understanding them helps ensure accurate budgeting.

  • Container size (20ft vs 40ft)

  • Departure port in the USA

  • Destination port in Trinidad & Tobago

  • Type of cargo (vehicles, household goods, commercial)

  • Customs duties and taxes

  • Seasonal demand and fuel surcharges

Major Ports in Trinidad & Tobago

The country’s ports are modern and equipped to handle international container traffic efficiently.

  • Port of Port of Spain (Trinidad): The main container port, handling commercial and personal shipments.

  • Port of Point Lisas (Trinidad): A major industrial port suitable for containerized and breakbulk cargo.

  • Port of Scarborough (Tobago): Handles regional shipments and smaller consignments.

Customs Clearance in Trinidad & Tobago

All shipments must go through customs clearance upon arrival. Providing complete and accurate documentation ensures a smooth process.

  • Bill of Lading

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Vehicle Title (for car shipments)

  • Import Permits (if required)

Import Duties and Taxes

Imports into Trinidad & Tobago are subject to customs duties, VAT, and port charges, depending on cargo type and value.

  • Customs Duty: Varies based on the product category.

  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Typically applied to most imported goods.

  • Port Fees: Include handling and processing charges at the port of arrival.

Contacting Trinidad & Tobago Customs

For official information regarding regulations, tariffs, and clearance procedures, contact the Customs and Excise Division of Trinidad & Tobago.

  • Website: https://www.customs.gov.tt

  • Phone: +1 868-625-3311

  • Main Office: Customs and Excise Division, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

Final Thoughts

Shipping a container to Trinidad & Tobago from the USA is secure, cost-effective, and reliable. Selecting the right container, ensuring proper documentation, and working with experienced shipping professionals will guarantee smooth and timely delivery for vehicles, household goods, or commercial cargo.

Expert Insights from Fred O, a seasoned professional in the car shipping industry, offering valuable advice and tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for transporting vehicles to and from Puerto Rico. Stay informed with Fred O’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the field.