International Container Shipping To and From the UK
Book Now! Your Affordable Container Shipping Services
Ship Cars Ltd provides comprehensive and reliable international container shipping services, offering a secure and efficient method for transporting vehicles and general cargo worldwide. Whether you’re shipping a single car, multiple vehicles, or require dedicated container space for your goods, our expertise ensures your items arrive safely and professionally at their destination. We specialise in Full Container Loads (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services, catering to a wide range of shipping needs from the UK, Ireland, and Scotland to numerous global destinations.
Your Premier Choice for Container Shipping
With over 10 years of experience in the shipping industry, Ship Cars Ltd. has established itself as a leading specialist in bespoke container shipping solutions. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail, prompt responses, and unparalleled customer care, ensuring a seamless shipping experience from collection to delivery.
We expertly handle the professional shipment of a variety of items, including:
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Motorcycles
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Saloon Cars
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4x4s
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Vans
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Caravans
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Classic Cars & Project Vehicles
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General Cargo, Personal Effects, and Commercial Goods
Our dedicated logistics team can arrange safe collection of any vehicle or item from anywhere in the UK and ensure it is securely loaded and braced within the container for transit overseas.
Understanding Container Sizes and Specifications
We offer a range of standard shipping containers to accommodate different cargo sizes and requirements.
Shipping Container Dimensions
| Container Type | Internal Length | Internal Width | Internal Height | Door Width | Door Height | Total Volume (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard 20′ | 19′4″ – 5.89 m | 7′8″ – 2.33 m | 7′10” – 2.38 m | 7′8″ – 2.33 m | 7′6″ – 2.28 m | 33.18 |
| Standard 40′ | 39′5″ – 12.01 m | 7′8″ – 2.33 m | 7′10” – 2.38 m | 7′8″ – 2.33 m | 7′6″ – 2.28 m | 67.67 |
| High Cube 40′ (HQ) | 39′5″ – 12.01 m | 7′8″ – 2.33 m | 8′10” – 2.69 m | 7′8″ – 2.33 m | 8′5″ – 2.56 m | 76.28 |
Note: Internal dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Please confirm suitability for your specific cargo dimensions.
Container Shipping Options: FCL and LCL
We offer two primary service types to suit your shipping volume and budget:
FCL Container Shipping (Full Container Loads)
With FCL, you have exclusive use of a shipping container, offering maximum security and flexibility.
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Container Options: Choose from 20ft, 40ft, or 40ft High Cube (HQ) containers. We also handle out-of-gauge shipments.
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Weekly Sailings: Benefit from our extensive network and weekly sailings from major UK ports (Southampton, Tilbury, Felixstowe) to thousands of destinations worldwide.
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Collection Services: Daily collections are available across the UK for 20ft or 40ft containers, provided there is sufficient space for safe parking and maneuvering.
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Loading Flexibility: We can place the container on the ground for easier loading or leave it on the back of the truck (approximately 5ft off the ground), which can help save costs.
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Vehicle Loading: Our rates for container car shipping typically include professional loading and securing of vehicles at one of our loading facilities.
LCL Container Shipping (Less Than Container Load)
If you don’t require a full container, our LCL consolidation service is a cost-effective solution.
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Consolidation Service: Your cargo is consolidated with other shipments in a shared container.
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Competitive Pricing: This service offers a highly competitive rate for smaller consignments.
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Expert Packing: We offer expert packing, labelling, palletising, and crating services for items ranging from a few boxes and furniture to commercial goods like electronics and tyres.
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Daily Collections: We provide daily collections from anywhere in Scotland, Wales, and the UK for our LCL groupage container services.
Container Shipping to Key Destinations: Average Prices and Transit Times
Here is a selection of our competitive container shipping rates, based on standard conditions (e.g., 1 car in a 20ft container, 2 cars in a 40ft container). These rates are inclusive of loading and securing vehicles at our facilities.
| Container Size | From | To | Transit Time | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | London Gateway | Melbourne, Fremantle, Sydney, Brisbane | 47 Days | £1595.00 |
| 40′ & 40’HQ | London Gateway | Melbourne, Fremantle, Sydney, Brisbane | 47 Days | £2100.00 |
| 20ft Standard | London Gateway | Auckland, Lyttelton, Napier, Tauranga | 65 Days | £2295.00 |
| 40′ & 40’HQ | London Gateway | Auckland, Lyttelton, Napier, Tauranga | 65 Days | £2895.00 |
| 20ft Standard | London Gateway | Jeddah | 16 Days | £1245.00 |
| 40′ & 40’HQ | London Gateway | Jeddah | 16 Days | £1395.00 |
| 20ft Standard | London Gateway | Jebel Ali | 28 Days | £1265.00 |
| 40′ & 40’HQ | London Gateway | Jebel Ali | 28 Days | £1395.00 |
| 20ft Standard | London Gateway | Karachi | 24 Days | £1295.00 |
| 40′ & 40’HQ | London Gateway | Karachi | 24 Days | £1495.00 |
| 20ft Standard | London Gateway | Hong Kong | 40 Days | £965.00 |
| 40′ & 40’HQ | London Gateway | Hong Kong | 40 Days | £1195.00 |
Please Note:
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These rates are indicative and subject to change based on market fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and specific destination requirements.
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Prices are typically for shipping one standard car in a 20ft container and two standard cars in a 40ft container. Larger vehicles or additional cargo may incur extra charges.
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Transit times are approximate and can be affected by various logistical factors.
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For destinations not listed or for bespoke shipping requirements (e.g., multiple vehicles, out-of-gauge cargo), please contact us directly for a tailored quote.
Buying Shipping Containers
In addition to our shipping services, Ship Cars Ltd. can also assist with the purchase of shipping containers. Whether you need a new or used container for shipping purposes or for storage, we can source reliable options.
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Container Types: We can source Standard 20ft, Standard 40ft, and 40ft High Cube containers.
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Condition: Options are available for new (one-trip) and used containers, which are inspected for seaworthiness and structural integrity.
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Delivery: Container delivery can be arranged to your UK address.
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Pricing: Container purchase prices vary significantly based on type, condition, and market demand.
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New 20ft Container: Typically ranges from £2,800 – £3,500.
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Used 20ft Container (Good Condition): Typically ranges from £1,800 – £2,500.
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New 40ft Container: Typically ranges from £3,500 – £4,500.
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Used 40ft Container (Good Condition): Typically ranges from £2,500 – £3,500.
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These prices are approximate for purchasing a container outright and are subject to market fluctuations. Please contact us for current pricing and availability.
Special Considerations for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Container shipping provides a safe and compliant method for transporting electric and hybrid vehicles.
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Allowed in Containers: Both electric and hybrid vehicles are permitted within shipping containers.
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Hazard Surcharge: Due to the presence of high-voltage batteries, electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge, usually around £295 for a dedicated container shipment. This fee covers the necessary safety protocols and handling requirements.
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Preparation: Specific guidelines apply to preparing electric vehicle batteries for international transit, which our team will clearly outline for you.
Vehicle Condition and Loading
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Non-Operational Vehicles: Your vehicle does not need to be working or operational for container shipping. Our team has the equipment and expertise to safely load non-running vehicles into containers.
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Loading Goods: You are permitted to load personal belongings, spare parts, and other goods within the container alongside your vehicle. Ensure all items are securely packed and braced to prevent movement during transit. Avoid shipping hazardous or prohibited materials.
Insurance and Risk Coverage
While containers offer robust protection, we strongly recommend comprehensive marine insurance for added peace of mind.
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Total Loss Cover: Protects against total loss due to fire or water damage during transit. Costs 1% of the vehicle’s value + shipping cost.
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Comprehensive Cover: Covers cosmetic damage (scratches, minor dents) as well as total loss. Costs 1.5% of the vehicle’s value + shipping cost. Available for vehicles no older than 10 years. A condition report is required; it’s complimentary if we collect your vehicle, or £35 if you deliver it to us.
Frequently Asked Questions & Additional Resources
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Transit Time: Container shipping transit times vary by destination, ranging from 16 days to major ports like Jeddah to over 65 days for routes like the UK to New Zealand.
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Sailing Frequency: We offer weekly sailings to most major international destinations via container services.
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Prohibited Items: Hazardous materials, illegal items, weapons, ammunition, live animals, and perishables are generally not allowed.
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Mistakes to Avoid: For insights into common pitfalls, see our guide: Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping
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Vehicle Preparation: For detailed instructions, please visit: How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping and Preparing Your Car for Export.
Ship Cars Ltd. is your reliable partner for all international container shipping needs. Contact us today via email at info@shipcars.co.uk or call us to discuss your requirements and receive a competitive quote.
