Do you provide drayage from Honolulu Harbor and other Hawaii ports?

Yes. We handle drayage from Honolulu, Hilo, Kahului, and Nawiliwili with island-wide delivery.

Can you coordinate inter-island container transport?

Yes. We arrange barge service and local delivery for inter-island container moves.

What container sizes do you haul in Hawaii?

We transport 20ft and 40ft units, plus high-cube and specialty containers.

Do you move loaded or modified containers?

Yes. We plan routes, secure permits as needed, and coordinate lifts for loaded, high-cube, and modified containers.

Hawaii Shipping Container Transport Company

Hawaii Container Movers Services Include:

Intermodal Container Transport • Conex Container Shipping • Standard 20ft and 40ft Container Moves • Drayage Services • Container Loading and Offloading • And More!

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Why choose HET for transporting shipping containers in Hawaii?

HET specializes in shipping containers to and from Hawaii, delivering 759 containers this year with a 98.7% on-time rate.

Heavy Equipment Transport is an ISO 9001 certified company that has transported over 1,500 container shipments in the first ten months of this year, consistently achieving a high on-time delivery percentage.

We are proud to announce that we provide our clients with an average cost savings of 18%, although this figure may vary depending on the specific service rendered. Additionally, we are fully licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) under MC-693977 and carry a coverage limit of $250,000.

Our company is GSA-certified and is an approved FEMA partner. For the past seven years, we have been recognized as a potential candidate for the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies. With over 16 years of industry experience, we employ a team of more than 140 logistics experts and operate from locations in Florida, Kentucky, Ohio and Hawaii.

There's a lot of noise about shipping container movers in Hawaii. Finding the best option can be confusing. Here's what you get with Heavy Equipment Transport for container moves to Hawaii:

Transparency: We are licensed, bonded and insured to move containers throughout Hawaii. We're happy to provide all the paperwork to verify that we are a legitimate container transport company to or from Hawaii.
Competitive Rates: You'll receive a competitive rate based on everything you need for your Hawaii container move. We find the best rate to fit your container transport.
Experienced Hawaii Container Movers: We vet every driver and loading crew to ensure they have the experience and record for safe container transport.
Permits and Paperwork Handled: You don't need to stress about getting the necessary approvals or making sure all the documents are correct. We take care of everything for you.
On Time Delivery: Every route is pre-planned for the safest and most efficient Hawaii container shipping. You need a transport company that not only delivers, but does so on time.

At Heavy Equipment Transport, our top priority is our clients. We offer the best container transport services in Hawaii because you deserve exceptional service.

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Guaranteed Quality Shipping Container Moving Services To and From Hawaii

Moving containers to Hawaii is a different challenge than shipping them from state to state on the mainland. Transporting your container to Hawaii from the mainland has unique obstacles, such as:

Distance: Transporting containers to Hawaii takes longer and costs more because it is over 2,500 miles from the West Coast of the United States.
Import Duties: Shipping items to Hawaii can be more expensive because of additional fees and taxes that the state charges on imported goods.
Weather: The unpredictable weather on the ocean and in Hawaii can lead to delays in the transportation of shipping containers.
Freight Restrictions: Hawaii has restrictions on oversize loads and the type of freight allowed into the state.
Limited Shipping Options: Planning is really important because Hawaii has few options for moving goods in containers. This means that careful organization is needed to ensure everything is delivered efficiently.

You want experienced Hawaii shipping container movers who provide quality transport services because this reduces the risk of something going wrong.

Heavy Equipment Transport is the best Hawaii container moving company, and we're ready to ship your container today!

The Best Price to Ship Your Container From the U.S. to Hawaii

Shipping container costs from the U.S. to Hawaii vary by destination and service, whether by boat or truck. For the best prices and to ensure safe handling, consult a shipping expert for a precise quote without hidden charges.

Heavy Equipment Transport facilitates container movement between Hawaii and the U.S. We provide intermodal, drayage and standard shipping services, backed by 13 years of experience for safe and efficient transportation.

We also offer cranes and professional teams to help load and unload your containers for an additional fee. Transport your loaded or unloaded container in Hawaii today! Call us at (888) 730-2951.

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The most important ports for shipping containers in Hawaii

The main shipping container port in Hawaii is the Port of Honolulu, which handles most cargo and serves as the hub for imports, exports and inter-island transshipment. Key inter-island ports include Kahului (Maui), Hilo and Kawaihae (Big Island) and Nawiliwili (Kauai). Major carriers like Matson and Pasha Hawaii operate terminals in Honolulu.

Key Container Ports in Hawaii

Port of Honolulu (Maui): Hawaii’s main port serves as its key shipping hub, handling most of the cargo from the mainland and other countries. It features important facilities, including the Sand Island Terminal, where containers and vehicles are processed.
Kahului Harbor (Maui): A large port that welcomes cargo ships and cruise ships, playing a vital role in supporting the island of Maui.
Hilo Harbor (Big Island): The shipping port is an important facility that takes care of various kinds of cargo, such as large quantities of goods, vehicles, and shipping containers. It plays a vital role in supporting the island of Hawaii by ensuring that essential items and resources arrive safely and efficiently.
Kawaihae Harbor (Big Island): Located on the northwest coast, this place is responsible for handling the movement of big shipments and packaged items for the Big Island.
Nawiliwili Harbor (Kauai): Provides transportation services to the island of Kauai, including shipping containers, bulk goods and passenger travel.

Why are the ports in Hawaii important?

Hub-and-Spoke System: Honolulu is the main hub for receiving supplies, which are then sent out to the other islands.
Major Carriers: Transport companies like ours (HET) rely on these ports as essential hubs for our operations across the state and the Pacific. We invest in equipment like cranes and terminals to handle large cargo ships efficiently.
Logistical Centers: Sand Island in Honolulu has designated areas for the storage of shipping containers, vehicles, and heavy equipment, all designed to manage and organize these items efficiently.

Hawaii-US Intermodal Transport Key Features and Benefits

Hawaii’s intermodal transport system combines ocean shipping, trucking, and rail services to lower costs, enhance security and reduce environmental impact, despite longer transit times. Key features like integrated tracking, single bills of lading, and standardized containers boost supply chain efficiency.

Hawaii-US Intermodal Transport Example

A common example of transportation in Hawaii combines different methods to move goods. It starts with a truck that delivers products to a nearby port. From there, the goods are placed in a large shipping container and sent across the ocean on a cargo ship.

Once they reach the other side, another truck or ferry takes the goods to their final location. Companies like Matson and Pasha Hawaii have made this system really efficient, helping to ensure that products reach their destinations smoothly.

Step-by-Step Example: Intermodal Mainland to Maui

Origin (Mainland US): A truck collects various items, such as food, tools, and electronics, from a storage facility in California and takes them to a shipping port, like the one in Long Beach.
Ocean Freight: The products, kept in their original sealed boxes, are being loaded onto a big cargo ship that is on its way to Honolulu.
Arrival in Hawaii: The container is taken off the ship at the Honolulu port.
Final Delivery: A local truck picks up the container from the port and delivers it directly to a store or business on Maui.

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Key Features

Single Container: The main advantage is that the products stay in the same box or container from start to finish. This helps reduce the chances of them getting damaged because they aren’t moved around as much.
Multiple Modes: It includes transportation by truck and by large ships on the ocean. For moving goods between the islands in Hawaii, it could also use ferries or small cargo planes.
Key Players: Heavy Equipment Transport (HET) specializes in transporting heavy and oversized equipment and shipping containers from the West Coast of the United States, especially California, to various locations in Hawaii, including Honolulu, Hilo, and Kahului. They usually have regular trips to make it easy to send goods to the islands.
Specialized Containers: This includes special containers that keep food cold, tanks for transporting liquids like milk and regular shipping containers used for general items.

Benefits for Intermodal Transport between the Mainland and Hawaii

Intermodal transport between the U.S. mainland (California) and Maui, HI offers cost savings on long-haul routes, lower emissions and greater sustainability compared to trucking, greater reliability due to fewer traffic disruptions, and improved cargo security through sealed containers. This system uses standardized containers that move seamlessly between ships, rail, and trucks, enabling more efficient, greener logistics.

Cost Efficiency: Reduces expenses by using rail and ocean for long distances, where they are more economical than trucking, while still using trucks for efficient first/last-mile delivery.
Reliability & Flexibility: The system ensures a steady flow of services and helps reduce traffic jams, making it easier to stick to schedules. It also provides different paths to take if there are any delays or issues.
Enhanced Security: Items remain in secure, uniform containers for the entire trip. This helps prevent damage, theft, and the need to handle the goods too many times.
Improved Efficiency: Using standardized containers and coordinated transportation methods helps to make shipping and delivery more efficient. This reduces waiting times and provides a clearer view of the entire supply chain process.
Scalability: It can easily handle larger amounts of cargo by simply adding more containers to the system.

How it Works for Hawaii

Long-Haul Ocean/Rail: Cargo containers make their journey from major mainland cities to Pacific ports using affordable ocean ships. From there, they can connect to trains that take them further inland. Finally, the containers are moved onto special ships that carry them to Hawaii.
Drayage moves goods from the first mile to the last mile: Local trucks are used for short journeys that transport goods to and from ports and their final destinations on the islands. This system helps make the transportation process easier and more efficient.

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Regulations and Permits for Transporting Overweight Loads and Containers in Hawaii

Transporting overweight or oversize loads and shipping containers in Hawaii requires permits from the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) for loads exceeding standard limits (e.g., 80,000 lbs, 8'6" wide, 13'6" high, 53' long). You'll need to provide details about your load, route, and any necessary escorts or equipment, as costs vary by load size and may include potential fines for non-compliance.

Important Rules and Guidelines for Transporting Large Equipment and Containers in Hawaii

Permit Needed: If your vehicle is carrying more than what is legally allowed in terms of weight, width, height, or length, you need to get a temporary permit.
Legal Limits (General): 80,000 lbs (GVW), 8'6" wide, 13'6" high, 53' long are standard thresholds, but Hawaii sets its own rules.
Axle Weight: There are specific weight limits for vehicles depending on how many wheels they have. For example, the maximum weight allowed on a single set of wheels (or axle) is 48,000 pounds, while a pair of axles together can handle up to 84,000 pounds when driving on paved roads.
Escorts/Specialization: When transporting very large or heavy items, it's often necessary to have escorts to ensure safety. This may involve special vehicles to guide the transport and specific types of trailers designed to carry such loads.
Route Planning: It's important to plan your routes in a way that avoids restricted areas or buildings. You might want to use resources from HDOT to help with this.

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FAQs About Shipping Container Transport in Hawaii by Category

Shipping container FAQs for Hawaii cover timelines (1-2 weeks for the main island, longer for inter-island), costs based on size and content, prohibited items (flammables, aerosols), container types (dry, reefer, open-top) and transport logistics (trucks, Jones Act). Key factors include size, contents, destination, and compliance.

Cost & Pricing

What is the price to send a shipping container to Hawaii?

Sending a shipping container to Hawaii usually costs between $1,000 and $10,500. The price can vary based on a some factors, such as the size of the container (like a smaller 20-foot one versus a larger 40-foot one), where it's coming from, which island in Hawaii it's going to, fuel costs and any extra services like transportation or delivery.

What factors affect the shipping container transport price in Hawaii?

Shipping container costs to and from Hawaii vary based on distance, size, weight, and fuel prices and seasonal demand can increase costs. Hawaii's geography poses logistical challenges, especially for perishable goods.

Are there any hidden fees associated with shipping a container to Hawaii?

Shipping a container to Hawaii usually involves extra fees due to its island location, including port fees, insurance, documentation fees, fuel surcharges, and agricultural inspections. Getting detailed quotes is essential to avoid unexpected charges from the mainland U.S.

Logistics & Timeline

What's the difference between a carrier and a freight forwarder in Hawaii?

Shipping companies operate large cargo ships for transporting goods across the ocean. In contrast, freight forwarders like Approved Freight simplify shipping by organizing smaller shipments from various customers, allowing them to share space on these ships and save money.

How long does it take to ship a container to or from Hawaii?

Shipping a container to or from Hawaii typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from the U.S. West Coast, with an average of 7 to 14 days from California to Honolulu. East Coast shipments can take 4 to 8 weeks and transit times may vary based on location, carrier, weather and delays to outer islands.

How are containers transported to the neighboring islands in Hawaii?

Interisland barges and container ships mainly transport containers in Hawaii. Large carriers like Heavy Equipment Transport move cargo from the mainland to Oahu, while smaller operators like Young Brothers deliver to Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. This involves transferring containers at specialized terminals in the Port of Honolulu for final delivery.

What container sizes are offered in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, standard container sizes like 20ft and 40ft (standard and High Cube) are available, along with smaller options (6', 8', 10') for compact needs. Specialty refrigerated (reefer) and "open side" containers, as well as custom cuts, are offered by Aloha Container, Hiwaste Mfg and Tuff Shipping Containers for various storage and commercial projects.

Restrictions & Regulations

What items are prohibited from being shipped to Hawaii?

Hawaii enforces strict regulations on agricultural items to protect its environment. Fresh fruits and certain vegetables, like corn and citrus, are prohibited, along with most plants, soil and some seeds. Federal laws also ban firearms, explosives and illegal drugs, while specific rules apply to hazardous items, such as certain lava lamps, aerosol sprays, batteries, and fuel.

Key Prohibited/Restricted Items

Plants & Produce: Most fresh, uncooked, or untreated plants, seeds, soil, and specific fruits/veggies (pineapple, bromeliads, corn, citrus from particular areas, certain root vegetables) are restricted or banned without permits.
Animals & Biologicals: Some animals, fresh meat, and certain living organisms require special permits to be moved or sold. This is mainly because there are concerns about their potential harm to local environments.
Soil, Sand, Coral: Taking items that include biological materials or living organisms is mostly not allowed and has strict rules.
Hazardous Materials (Hazmat): Some items are not allowed to be shipped because they can be dangerous. This includes things like gasoline, spray cans, certain types of paint, some batteries, poisons, and mercury. If you need to send these kinds of items, there are special rules and procedures to follow to keep everything safe.
Drugs & Weapons: Certain items are not allowed without the right permits. This includes illegal drugs, large quantities of cannabis or CBD, firearms, and specific types of knives and magazines.
Certain Electronics: Some items, like certain lava lamps or older electronic devices, may not be allowed because they contain mercury or too many batteries.

Do I need a "Cargo Worthy" certificate in Hawaii?

When shipping in Hawaii, ensure your container has "Cargo Worthy" (CW) status or a CSC Plate certificate for safety. A CW certificate is typically not required for storage unless requested by the seller. These certifications are essential for shipping filled containers.

What documentation is required to transport containers in Hawaii?

To transport containers in Hawaii, obtain a Bill of Lading (BOL), ensure proper packaging and labeling and include any necessary declarations for agricultural items or hazardous materials. For inter-island vehicle transport, a notarized owner's letter is required and must be confirmed by your freight forwarder.

General Documentation for all Shipments to or from Hawaii

Bill of Lading (BOL): It's important for transporting goods to have clear information about what is being shipped, where it's coming from, where it's going, and the conditions of the shipment.
Commercial Invoice & Packing List: Whenever you send a package, it's important to include a list of what's inside, how much it's worth, and how heavy it is. This helps everyone involved in the shipping process understand what the package contains.
Cargo Insurance: It's a good idea to get cargo insurance to protect against any possible damage to your goods while they're being transported.

OUR RECENT EQUIPMENT SHIPMENTS

Milos Visnjic coordinated the transportation of this 50L 12W 12H and 26,000lbs cut and wrap module container from Ferndale, WA to Kailua Kona, HI. He decided that the container was best shipped on an RGN trailer for easier accommodation of its weight and size. To safely transport a cut and wrap container module, call us today!

SHIPPING A CUT AND WRAP MODULE CONTAINER ON AN RGN TRAILER

Transporting a cut and wrap module container.

Origin: Ferndale, WA

Destination: Kailua Kona, HI

Specialist: Milos Visnjic

Contact Milos: (303) 482-1811

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Shipping Container Transport Dimensions and Specifications

Container Size/Type	Dimensions Internally (L x W x H)	Door Opening (W x H)	Cubic-Capacity	Weight Capacity
20FT	19.32 x 7.70 x 7.74ft	7.64 x 7.51ft	104.98ft³	47840.31lb
40FT	39.53 x 7.70 x 7.74ft	7.64 x 7.51ft	216.53ft³	58422.49lb
20FT Flat Rack with sides	19.32 x 7.70 x 7.31ft	Side Opening W - 8.49ft	98.42ft³	58422.49lb
40FT Flat Rack with Sides	39.53 x 7.70 x 7.31ft	Side Opening W - 8.49ft	206.69ft³	7936.64lb
40FT Flat Rack without sides	40.02 x 7.70 x 2.13ft	Side Opening W - 38.25ft	219.81ft³ Max Height 25.39ft	85980.28lb

Container Size/Type

Dimensions Internally
(L x W x H)

Door Opening
(W x H)

Cubic-Capacity

Weight Capacity

20FT

19.32 x 7.70 x 7.74ft

7.64 x 7.51ft

104.98ft³

47840.31lb

40FT

39.53 x 7.70 x 7.74ft