Contact a shipping company with a service center in your city or the city where the container is located. Confirm the company's ability to ship to Puerto Rico. Some of the biggest shipping and freight companies in the United States are Maersk Line, Hapag-Lloyd, COSCO, American President Lines and Evergreen Marine.
Visit the company's website to get information about rates, shipping timelines and schedules. On the homepage, click on "Schedules" or "Rates" for details. Check for information about the entire shipping process: For example, on the Maersk Line website, click on "Services," and then "Read more about our online shipping process here."
Determine when you want the container shipped. Most companies require 7 to 10 days' notice, so plan accordingly. Look at the available shipping schedules and select the one that works the best for you.
Evaluate the rates available for your size of container. Determine if standard cargo is applicable or if your container needs a controlled and regulated temperature or atmosphere. Review all freight rates, tariffs and surcharges for your shipment, including collection or delivery fees.
Book your container to allow the company time to review the materials you are shipping, description of contents, special restrictions, if applicable, and size of your container. The booking process includes the to-and-from destinations and the names of the parties on the shipping agreement. Indicate if you need the container picked up or if it will be delivered to the service center. List instructions upon arrival at the destination, i.e., whether the shipping company will deliver the container or you will have it transported.
Inquire about insurance options to cover the cost of the container and contents in the event of damage. Confirm payment details and secure payment for your shipment.
Prepare or review your transport documentation as prepared by the company. This may slightly vary by company, but typical documentation includes names of the parties to the agreement; contact information; booking number; type of transport; invoicing and payment details; shipping center location and delivery to the facility; destination and delivery of container; type of commodity in container; description of contents; size and type of container container number; gross weight of cargo; and seal number. Revise any incorrect information.
Track your shipment's progress. Most companies offer online tracking: Click on "Tracking" from the homepage and enter your container or booking number.
