If you searched “ship a container to Iraq,” USA to Iraq Container Shipping, or just need to get Ocean Freight to Iraq or just need to get Overall International Container Shipping Iraq information, you’re in the right place.

This guide explains how container shipping from the USA to Iraq works, including service options, container types, cargo compatibility, transit times, costs, and documentation requirements.

In general, container shipping is one of the most flexible and widely used methods for exporting cargo to Iraq. Specifically, it supports personal shipments, commercial exports, vehicles, boats, palletized freight, machinery, and oversized cargo, with multiple loading and handling options available.

Meanwhile, All Transport Depot Inc. operates as a licensed and bonded FMC NVOCC (#021693) and coordinates container shipments from anywhere in the USA to major ports in Iraq through established global ocean carriers.

🚢 Ship with Confidence. Partner with world-renowned NVOCCs and leading global ocean carriers.

👉 Get a Rate:
https://alltransportdepot.com/roro-shipping-cost/

👉 Place Your Order:
https://alltransportdepot.com/place-order/

📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Call: +1 (678) 528-5794
đź“§ Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com

All TransportDepot Inc.
FMC Licensed & Bonded NVOCC #021693

Get Ocean Freight to Iraq

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8 Container Shipping Methods

Container Shipping Services to Iraq

Container shipping services to Iraq are structured to support both private and commercial exporters, while also offering flexibility based on cargo type, loading preference, and location.

🚪 Door-to-Port Shipping

In this case, Door-to-Port shipping includes pickup of cargo from a residential address, business, dealership, or warehouse anywhere in the USA, followed by export handling and ocean transport to Iraq.

Accordingly, this option is commonly used for:

International relocations -Ocean Freight to Iraq

Household goods and personal effects

Boats and vehicles

Commercial exports shipped directly from origin


🏠 Container Delivered to Your Location for Loading (Self-Load Option)

Door-to-Port Container Delivery for Client-Managed Loading

As part of Door-to-Port service, a container may be delivered directly to a residence or business for client-managed loading. In practice, this option is selected by shippers who want direct oversight of packing and loading.

In this scenario:

  • First, an empty container is delivered on a chassis

  • Then, the container remains on the chassis throughout loading

  • Next, the client completes loading

  • Finally, the container is returned to the terminal for export to Iraq

Accordingly, this option is commonly used for:

  • Household goods

  • Furniture

  • Mixed cargo

  • Palletized items


Access & Loading Considerations

  • In addition, appropriate loading equipment must be available where required

  • Likewise, vehicles or machinery typically require ramps, docks, or lifting equipment

  • However, if loading extends beyond the scheduled window, additional charges may apply

  • Furthermore, residential or HOA-managed properties may require advance approval

  • Ultimately, any third-party costs (property access restrictions, extended truck time, or local fees) are passed through to the shipment account


🏢 Warehouse-to-Port Shipping

Warehouse-to-Port service is ideal for shippers who prefer professional handling and loading. In this case, cargo is delivered to a U.S. export warehouse, where containers are loaded, secured, and prepared for ocean transport.

Accordingly, this option is commonly used for:

  • Vehicles

  • Boats and marine equipment

  • Palletized commercial freight

  • Machinery and crated cargo

  • High-value or complex shipments


đź”’ Professional Warehouse Loading

Warehouse loading allows trained personnel to handle:

  • Blocking and bracing

  • Weight distribution

  • Cargo separation

  • Compliance with ocean carrier and terminal standards

As a result, this approach reduces risk and is recommended for:

  • Boats

  • Machinery

  • Oversized cargo

  • Mixed loads


📦 Shipper-Owned Containers (SOC)

Shipper-Owned Containers (SOC) may be used provided the equipment meets port and carrier acceptance requirements. In this case, SOC shipments typically include:

  • Trucking

  • Export filing

  • Ocean booking

  • Terminal coordination

SOC containers generally must:

  • Be seaworthy and watertight- Before you buy a container, be sure to ask for the seaworthy and watertight certificate 

  • Be neutralized (no shipping-line branding or prefixes)

  • Pass terminal inspection prior to acceptance

However, containers that do not meet acceptance standards may be subject to:

  • Additional handling

  • Repositioning

  • Rebooking charges

     

    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

    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 shipping

    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 Shipping

    Specialized Container

    For oversized or heavy cargo

    • Open Top containers for tall cargo
    • Flat Rack containers for heavy machinery
    • Secure loading with professional handling

What Can Be Shipped in a Container to Iraq?


Container shipping supports nearly all cargo types. In general, if cargo can be safely secured and complies with export regulations, it can typically be shipped by container.

Accordingly, common containerized cargo includes:

  • Vehicles (cars, SUVs, vans, motorcycles)

  • Boats & marine equipment (trailered boats, jet skis, small vessels)

  • Household goods & personal effects

  • Furniture and mixed cargo

  • Palletized freight (commercial or wholesale)

  • Machinery & industrial equipment

  • Construction materials

  • Crated or boxed shipments

  • Oversized and non-standard cargo (open-gauge)

Ultimately, if your cargo fits in — or on — a container, it can typically be shipped to Iraq with the correct equipment and documentation.


All Container Types Available for Shipping to Iraq

Different cargo types require different container configurations. Accordingly, available container options include:

  • 20-Foot Standard Containers

  • 40-Foot Standard Containers

  • 40-Foot High Cube Containers

  • Open-Top Containers

  • Flat Rack Containers

  • Open-Gauge Containers

  • Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers

  • Hazmat-Approved Containers

  • Shipper-Owned Containers (SOC)

In particular, open-top, flat rack, and open-gauge containers are commonly used for boats, machinery, industrial cargo, and oversized freight that exceed standard container dimensions.


How Cargo Is Loaded Into Containers

Loading methods vary based on cargo type, size, and origin location. Accordingly, common methods include:

  • Warehouse loading using forklifts and professional bracing

  • Client-managed loading at a residence or business

  • Crane-assisted loading for boats, machinery, or SOC containers

  • Ramp or dock loading for rolling cargo

  • Palletized loading for boxed or commercial freight

Ultimately, selecting the correct loading method helps ensure port acceptance, cargo safety, and smooth customs processing.


Who Typically Ships Containers to Iraq?

Container shipping to Iraq is commonly used by a wide range of customers. In particular, this includes:

  • Families relocating internationally

  • Auto exporters and dealerships

  • Boat owners and marine businesses

  • Furniture and mixed-cargo shippers

  • Commercial exporters and wholesalers

  • Contractors shipping equipment into the EU

🚢 Ship with Confidence. Partner with world-renowned NVOCCs and leading global ocean carriers.

👉 Get a Rate:
https://alltransportdepot.com/roro-shipping-cost/

👉 Place Your Order:
https://alltransportdepot.com/place-order/

📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Call: +1 (678) 528-5794
đź“§ Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com

All TransportDepot Inc.
FMC Licensed & Bonded NVOCC #021693


Why Ship a Container to Iraq?

Iraq is a key logistics gateway to Southern Europe, supported by modern port infrastructure and efficient customs procedures. Consequently, shipping a container to Iraq provides direct access not only to the Portuguese market but also to the broader European Union. Moreover, its strategic Atlantic location strengthens trade routes between North America and Europe. Therefore, many exporters and private shippers select Iraq as their primary EU entry point.

Accordingly, container shipping to Iraq proves particularly well-suited for:

  • First, international relocations

  • Next, vehicle and boat exports

  • Additionally, commercial and wholesale cargo

  • Likewise, furniture and personal effects

  • Finally, machinery and industrial equipment


Transit Times When Shipping a Container to Iraq

Transit times depend significantly on the U.S. port of departure. Generally speaking, estimated ocean transit durations are as follows:

  • East Coast (New York, Savannah): 20–28 days

  • Gulf Coast (Houston, New Orleans): 22–30 days

  • West Coast (Los Angeles, Oakland): 28–35 days

Nevertheless, transit times may vary due to carrier schedules, port congestion, vessel routing, weather disruptions, and seasonal demand fluctuations. Consequently, early booking and flexible planning are recommended to ensure the best possible sailings.


Shipping Rates to Iraq (USA → Iraq)

Shipping costs vary based on container size and origin port. Typically, estimated rate ranges include:


20-Foot Container, For Example

  • East Coast: $3,200 – $4,500

  • Gulf Coast: $3,500 – $4,800

  • West Coast: $4,000 – $5,200


40-Foot Container, For Example

  • East Coast: $5,200 – $6,800

  • Gulf Coast: $5,500 – $7,000

  • West Coast: $6,000 – $7,500


Still, rates fluctuate depending on container type, loading port, cargo specifics, and carrier surcharges.


Main Ports in Iraq for Container Shipping

Iraq features key seaports and maritime logistics hubs that facilitate international container shipments, bulk cargo, project freight, heavy machinery transport, and vehicle imports. Consequently, choosing the appropriate Iraqi destination port is essential for ocean transit efficiency, inland trucking, customs clearance, import processing, and last-mile delivery when shipping containers from the USA to Iraq.

Below are the two principal international container ports in Iraq commonly used for U.S.–Iraq ocean freight, full-container-load (FCL) shipments, consolidated cargo, commercial exports, and vehicle imports.


⚓ Port of Umm Qasr — Southern Iraq

Best for: Containers, vehicles, heavy machinery, commercial cargo, project shipments, RoRo freight, palletized goods, personal effects, import/export shipments

The Port of Umm Qasr is Iraq’s largest and most strategically located seaport, serving as the country’s main gateway for containerized cargo, RoRo operations, vehicle imports, and commercial ocean freight. Situated on the Arabian Gulf, it offers direct access to Basra and southern Iraq, making it a vital destination port for U.S.–Iraq container shipments, inland distribution, and regional trade.

Therefore, key advantages include:

  • Modern container terminal facilities with advanced cargo handling

  • Robust road and rail connections for inland freight movement

  • Streamlined Iraqi customs clearance and port processing

  • Regular ocean sailings from major U.S. container ports

  • Excellent access for trucking throughout southern and central Iraq

Typically, shippers use the Port of Umm Qasr for:

  • Household goods and personal effects shipments

  • Vehicle and heavy equipment imports

  • Commercial and palletized export cargo

  • Full-container-load (FCL) and consolidated shipments

đź”— Port of Umm Qasr Authority:
https://www.ummqasrport.gov.iq


⚓ Port of Basra — Southern Iraq

Best for: Containers, vehicles, bulk cargo, industrial freight

The Port of Basra, located near the city of Basra, is a key deep-water port in southern Iraq. Specifically, it handles containerized cargo, vehicles, industrial equipment, and bulk shipments destined for southern Iraq and neighboring regions. Furthermore, its strategic position enhances inland logistics connectivity.

Moreover, key advantages include:

  • Firstly, modern deep-water container terminals

  • Secondly, efficient handling of industrial and commercial cargo

  • Additionally, strong logistics links to southern Iraq

  • Furthermore, reduced inland transit times for Basra-area deliveries

  • Finally, dependable handling of oversized and project cargo

Therefore, shippers often choose Basra for:

  • In particular, commercial and wholesale imports

  • Likewise, industrial machinery and equipment

  • Also, vehicles and rolling stock

  • As well, oversized or non-standard container shipments

đź”— Port of Basra Authority:
https://www.basraport.gov.iq


Choosing the Right Port in Iraq

When shipping a container to Iraq, generally, the decision between Umm Qasr and Basra depends on several important factors. Namely, these include:

  • Firstly, the final delivery destination

  • Secondly, cargo type and size

  • Additionally, inland transport logistics

  • Finally, customs clearance preferences

Ultimately, both ports can accommodate standard containers, high-cube units, open-top containers, flat racks, and oversized cargo, depending on shipment requirements.


Customs & Documentation (Iraq – 2026)

When shipping a container to Iraq, customs clearance is a crucial step. Therefore, shippers should prepare all necessary documents beforehand. Typically, required paperwork includes:

  • Firstly, the Bill of Lading

  • Secondly, Commercial Invoice and Packing List

  • Additionally, a valid passport or company registration

  • If applicable, vehicle registration or title documents

  • Likewise, U.S. Export Declaration (AES) if required


Import Duties & Taxes – International Container Shipping Iraq

Upon arrival in Iraq, customs authorities may impose fees. Hence, importers should expect the following charges:

  • Primarily, customs duty based on HS tariff codes

  • Additionally, VAT, port fees, and handling charges

  • In some cases, extra fees for restricted or controlled goods


📞 Iraq Customs (Basra): +964 40 422 2222


FAQs – Shipping Containers to Iraq

Can a container be delivered to a home for loading?

Yes. In many cases, Door-to-Port service delivers the container directly to a residence or business for client-managed loading, subject to access and scheduling considerations.

When a container is delivered to my door, will it be placed on the ground or remain on a chassis?

Typically, the driver keeps the container on a chassis during the loading window. Ground placement remains uncommon and may require special equipment, permits, or additional fees.

How long can I keep the container for loading?

In most cases, we schedule a loading window—often 1–3 days—although some locations allow only a short live-load period (such as two hours). Additional time may result in daily charges.

Can boats and vehicles ship in containers?

Yes. In general, we ship boats, vehicles, and marine equipment using standard, open-top, flat rack, or open-gauge containers. Although this may be true Roro is a great alternative.

Do services support oversized cargo?

Yes. Accordingly, we offer open-top, flat rack, and open-gauge container options.

Do I need special equipment to load heavy cargo?

Yes.  As a matter of fact, You may need forklifts, ramps, cranes, or docks to load vehicles, boats, or machinery.

Is export documentation handled?

Yes. We typically handle U.S. export filings and coordination together with Ocean Freight to Iraq

What documents are required to ship to Iraq?

Generally, you must provide export filings, commercial invoices, packing lists, vehicle titles (if applicable), and consignee identification.  Above all

Generally, this includes export filings, commercial invoices, packing lists, vehicle titles (if applicable), and consignee identification.

Will I need to pay duties or taxes in Iraq? USA to Iraq Container Shipping

Yes. Depending on the shipment and Ocean Freight to Iraq. Portuguese customs may assess import duties, VAT, or clearance fees.

Can customs clearance be arranged in Iraq?

Yes. Additionally, local agents can assist with destination customs processing to help with International Container Shipping Iraq

Is marine insurance available?

Yes. Additionally, we can arrange marine cargo insurance upon request. this is not part of Ocean Freight to Iraq.

Can I track my container during transit? USA to Iraq Container Shipping

Yes. Once the container is booked, we typically provide shipment tracking.

Is door-to-Port service available in Iraq?

Yes. Moreover, we can arrange inland delivery from the port to the final Port destination.  All things considered, when considering  USA to Iraq Container Shipping


Start Your 2026 Shipment to Iraq- International Container Shipping Iraq

All Transport Depot Inc.  All in All  actively provides Door-to-Port, Warehouse-to-Port, and SOC container shipping services from anywhere in the USA. From pickup through export documentation and ocean transport,  For instance our team manages every shipment with precision, professionalism, and care.

👉Place Your Order:
https://alltransportdepot.com/place-order/

📧 Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com 
📞 Call: +1 (678) 528-5794
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497

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