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ISO 9001 certified Iowa Container Shipping Company
Iowa Shipping Container Movers Services Include:
Intermodal Container Transport • Conex Container Shipping • Standard 20ft and 40ft Container Moves • Drayage Services • Container Loading and Offloading • And More!
Heavy Equipment Transport is ISO 9001 certified and delivers over 1,500 container shipments each year. This year, we've already exceeded that number. We are committed to on-time delivery and typically save our clients around 16%, depending on the service.
Additionally, we are licensed by the FMCSA under MC-693977, maintain $250,000 in coverage, and are GSA-certified. As a FEMA Partner Approved company, we’ve also made a name for ourselves as a potential Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company for seven consecutive years. With over 16 years in business, our team comprises more than 140 logistics experts operating from locations in Florida, Kentucky, Ohio and Iowa.
Heavy Equipment Transport is your go-to for container moving services in Iowa. With over ten years of experience, we can handle all sizes and types of shipping containers.
Our agents are ready to process your transport requests and recommend suitable trailers based on the container's weight and dimensions. We ensure your container is fully insured and name each client on the policy so you can claim compensation if it's not delivered in its original condition.
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98% On-Time Delivery Container Transport Services in Iowa
We’ve made it easier for our clients by investing in cranes to load and unload shipping containers. If you don’t have the right equipment, we can do it for you for an additional fee.
Our resources are spread across all cities in Iowa, enabling us to assist multiple clients simultaneously. We only hire experienced professionals to manage and transport each shipping container.
We have experienced drivers who are skilled and know the best routes to ensure your shipping container arrives safely and on time. With Heavy Equipment Transport, you can rely on us to deliver your shipping container promptly.
OUR RECENT EQUIPMENT SHIPMENTS
Milos Visnjic helped a client transport this carcass cooler module container from Davenport, IA to Eagar, AZ safely. The 50.6L 12.3W 12.4H and 26000lbs carcass cooler module container was carefully loaded on an rgn trailer using a crane and well secured for transport. Our driver used the shortest route and the container was delivered safely. To transport a carcass cooler module container in time, call us today!
SHIPPING A CARCASS COOLER MODULE CONTAINER ON AN RGN TRAILER
Origin: Davenport, IA
Destination: Eagar, AZ
Specialist: Milos Visnjic
Contact Milos: (303) 482-1811
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 |
Choose Your Region in Iowa and Get a Container Shipping Quote!
Western Iowa
- Denison
- Le Mars
- Okoboji
- Orange City
- Sheldon
- Spencer
- Storm Lake
- Sioux City
- Transport Containers Anywhere In Western Iowa!
Southeast Iowa
- Quad Cities
- Burlington
- Ottumwa
- Clinton
- Transport Containers Anywhere In Southeast Iowa!
North Central Iowa
- Algona
- Armstrong
- Britt
- Clear Lake
- Fort Dodge
- Mason City
- Transport Containers Anywhere In North Central Iowa!
Northeast Iowa
- Charles City
- Decorah
- Dubuque
- Waterloo
- Cedar Falls
- Elkader
- Transport Containers Anywhere In Northeast Iowa!
Central Iowa
- Ames
- Ankeny
- Boone
- Carlisle
- Transport Containers Anywhere In Central Iowa!
Eastern Iowa
- Amana Colonies
- Mount Vernon
- Cedar Rapids
- DeWitt
- Iowa City
- Davenport
- Transport Containers Anywhere In Eastern Iowa!
Southwest Iowa
- Atlantic
- Audubon
- Clarinda
- Council Bluffs
- Missouri Valley
- Villisca
- Transport Containers Anywhere In Southwest Iowa!
South Central Iowa
- Albia
- Centerville
- Des Moines
- Osceola
- Ottumwa
- Transport Containers Anywhere In South Central Iowa!
Shipping Container Transport to All Cities of Iowa
Heavy Equipment Transport is among the best shipping container movers in Iowa, having moved more than 1,500 shipping containers nationwide and transported 531 to or from Iowa.
Iowa is the 2nd-largest agricultural exporting state in the country. Therefore, it needs container transport services on a day-to-day basis. We transport shipping containers from Iowa to the port of Chicago, Illinois.
Shipping the containers from or to Iowa full of agricultural products, machinery and merchandise via I-80 E and I-88 E, which pass through Iowa City and Davenport, among other cities, and continue all the way to Chicago. We offer container moving services from all cities in Iowa to various destinations and vice versa.
Main ports in Iowa for container transportation
Iowa's main container transportation ports include the inland ports on the Mississippi River: the Port of Davenport, Port of Dubuque, Port of Burlington and Port of Muscatine.
These four inland ports serve as intermodal hubs, linking river and rail transport to logistics networks in cities like Cedar Rapids and Des Moines.
Additionally, the Port of Blencoe on the Missouri River mainly serves agricultural freight.
Most important Inland Ports for Container Shipping to or from Iowa
- Port of Davenport: A significant port located on the Mississippi River, which is linked to the regional transportation network to or from Iowa.
- Port of Dubuque: An inland port on the Mississippi River, equipped with facilities designed for the management of container transportation to or from Iowa.
- Port of Burlington: Another inland port located on the Mississippi River.
- Port of Muscatine: A multi-modal transportation hub designed to connect international and domestic markets to or from Iowa.
- Port of Blencoe: Situated along the Missouri River, this port serves the agricultural industry for barge transport.
Key Considerations for Container Shipping in Iowa
- Inland connections: Iowa's ports serve as inland intermodal hubs, connecting to major transportation networks.
- Freight focus: These ports handle many different kinds of products, but they play a vital role in dealing with food and machinery.
- Transport services: Container transport services can be found in and around major hubs like Cedar Rapids and Des Moines.
Regulations and permits for transporting shipping containers in Iowa
In Iowa, regulations for transporting shipping containers differ for local moves and public roads. Cities have their own ordinances based on zoning and intended use. For public road transport, you must follow state regulations and may need permits from the Iowa Department of Transportation if the container exceeds standard dimensions or weight.
Iowa DOT transportation rules and permits for transporting shipping containers
- Overweight and oversized loads: The Iowa DOT is responsible for issuing permits for loads that exceed standard size and weight limits.
- Permit fees: Fees depend on the size and weight of the load.
- Types of permits: Single-trip or annual permits based on frequency.
- Route restrictions: Some permits have restrictions for specific routes and may require additional licensing.
- Sealed ocean containers: Permits might be granted for designated sealed ocean containers to move to and from seaports.
Regulations and permits by cities in Iowa
- Placement and use: Many cities regulate where and how containers can be placed on private property.
- Prohibitions: Restrictions in residential and commercial zones with limited exceptions.
- Building permits: Permits may be needed, especially for larger or longer-term storage.
- Duration: Temporary permits often limited to a period such as 90 days.
- Restrictions: Rules may include stacking, fencing, screening and container condition.
Important Steps for Shipping a Container in Iowa
- Obtain necessary permits: Secure state and local permits before transport or placement.
- Contact the Iowa DOT: Confirm permits and fees for oversized/overweight moves.
- Check local city ordinances: Consult local zoning/building departments for placement rules.
- Keep documentation: Keep permits and documentation with the load.
How to apply for permits to move shipping containers in Iowa?
To transport shipping containers in Iowa, determine whether you need an Iowa DOT oversized/overweight permit or a local permit. You can apply for Single Trip, Multiple Trip, or Annual permits, depending on the move and frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does shipping a container in Iowa cost?
Shipping a container to or from Iowa averages $2.65 to $3.00 per mile for standard freight. Prices vary by size, weight, access, and routing—contact HET for an accurate quote.
How can I get an accurate quote?
Contact Heavy Equipment Transport with your pickup/delivery cities, container size (20ft/40ft/high-cube), whether it is loaded or empty, and any site access constraints. We’ll provide a detailed, all-in quote.
Are there any hidden fees when I request a container transportation quote from HET?
Container moves can include extra charges like demurrage/detention, port/terminal fees, chassis time, fuel surcharges, and accessorials (lift, redelivery, limited access). We’ll itemize potential add-ons upfront so you can confirm what’s included before dispatch.
Do I need permits to ship a container in Iowa?
You may need Iowa DOT permits for oversize/overweight moves and local city permits for placement depending on zoning and duration. Requirements vary by route and municipality.
Do I need planning permission in Iowa to place a shipping container on my property?
Often, yes—many cities treat containers as accessory structures and may require zoning/building or temporary-use approvals (setbacks, screening, time limits). Check with your local planning and zoning department.
What items are prohibited from being transported in a container to or from Iowa?
Prohibited items can include explosives, flammables, compressed gases, poisons, radioactive materials, certain chemicals/HAZMAT, ammunition, illegal drugs, live animals/plants, and other restricted cargo. Confirm with your carrier and follow federal HAZMAT rules.
What are the access requirements for delivery?
Plan for adequate clearance/turning radius for a tractor-trailer, stable level ground, and clear overhead space. Some sites may also need permits, escorts, or a lift plan depending on access and load.
What trucks/trailers are used to move containers in Iowa?
Common equipment includes chassis (intermodal), flatbeds, step-decks for taller loads, and sideloaders for self-loading. The best option depends on container size, weight, and site conditions.
How are containers loaded and unloaded in Iowa?
Containers are typically handled with cranes, forklifts, reach stackers, or specialized trailers depending on the pickup/delivery location (rail ramp, port, yard, or jobsite).
What container sizes are commonly available in Iowa?
Most common are 20ft and 40ft, plus 40ft High Cube. Other sizes like 10ft, 16ft, 45ft, and 53ft may be available depending on equipment and routing.
What is the weight of an empty shipping container?
A 20ft container typically weighs ~4,500–5,000 lbs. A 40ft container is commonly ~8,200–8,800 lbs. Exact tare weight is usually posted on the container door.
What are the ISO specifications in Iowa?
Shipping containers follow ISO container standards (global sizing/ratings). Many Iowa businesses also reference ISO management standards like ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 depending on operations.
Ready To Get Started?
Heavy Equipment Transport offers all-inclusive shipping container moving costs in Iowa. We offer free and accurate container transport rates. Our Iowa container transport costs are determined based on factors such as ground distance, route, weight/dimensions, loading and unloading assistance among others. When a rigger man is needed, we provide it at an added fee. We offer each client a specific agent whom they call at any time of the day for updates until their shipping container is safely delivered. For reliable, efficient and affordable shipping container moving services in Iowa, contact us today via our toll free number (888) 730 2951.
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We can transport any size container, 20 through 40 foot, high cube, refrigerated, and more type of containers.
