The Exhibit Transport Blog

Each vendor will have a selection of Ocean Line Carriers to choose from when shipping via Ocean container. Different lines offer different routes and have different availability depending on season, much like airline schedules.

When you are quoted an ocean rate, it is ALWAYS subject to change no matter who quotes you because between the time you get your quote and the time you give the go-ahead to book space, the cheaper lines that are usually quoted first always fill up first.  Much like airfare. So the key is acting fast and having a very thorough line of communication with your vendor so you know they are looking in to all lines instead of one with which they favor. In addition, if Exhibit Transport is able to book your shipments at a lower rate than quoted, we will pass the savings on to you.

1. Shipping via ocean container generally adds about 30 days to your transport time. So ensure your goods are prepped well in advance, usually the large items like a custom trade show booth or display are good candidates for shipping via ocean.
2. Sea ports are available to all locations by transferring via road or rail. So to doesn't matter if your company is located in Colorado and the trade show is located in Berlin Germany ocean shipping via ocean container is an equally economical solution as those companies in Huston shipping to a major Seaport.
3. Rate per kilo for full container loads are generally cheeper than partial container loads. Look for opportunities to consolidate your shipment with other exhibitors going to the same show or conference.
4. Shipping via ocean container has the lowest temperature and moisture variations of any form of transportation. But it is always recommended to pack your goods using corrugated packing (cardboard) or other absorbent materials to regulate humidity levels. See: http://www.ista.org/forms/LEINBERGER_Dimensions06_paper.pdf 
5. Some destinations will require devanning (emptying and reloading to another carrier type) of the container because ground transportation in that country is not capable of hauling an ocean container. Ensure your logistics company is well aware of the limitations of each location to ensure your goods are properly handled.