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Why choose HET for transporting containers in Pennsylvania?
HET is a Pennsylvania transportation company specializing in shipping containers. This year, we delivered 831 containers with a 98.2% on-time delivery rate.
Heavy Equipment Transport is ISO 9001 certified and handles over 1,500 container shipments annually, surpassing that number within the first ten months of this year. We prioritize on-time delivery and help clients save about 18.2% on shipping costs.
Licensed by the FMCSA (MC-693977) with a $250,000 coverage limit, we are also GSA-certified and a FEMA Partner-Approved company. With over 16 years of experience, our team of 140 logistics experts operates across Florida, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania and has been a candidate for the Inc. 5000 list for seven consecutive years.
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Transport Shipping Containers in Pennsylvania with the Experts
Heavy Equipment Transport is Pennsylvania's leading container transport company with over a decade of experience in shipping containers of all sizes and weights. We assign a specialist to select the appropriate trailer for each shipment and offer both single- and multi-container transport services.
Our modern trailers can accommodate various dimensions and weights, and we provide flexible shipping options, including door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal services throughout Pennsylvania.
Container Transport Services with Full Insurance in Pennsylvania
Heavy Equipment Transport insures each container before dispatch, providing clients with an insurance policy for claims. Each container undergoes thorough inspection, with a Bill of Lading (BOL) for confirmation.
Our drivers can pick up containers from any location and use cranes for secure loading and unloading.
Transport your loaded or unloaded container in Pennsylvania today!
Main Ports for Container Shipping in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's primary container shipping hubs include the Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort), the Port of Pittsburgh and the Port of Erie. PhilaPort is a deepwater ocean port and ranks among the top 25 ports in the U.S. It serves as a vital Atlantic gateway. The Port of Pittsburgh, an inland river port, is the second-busiest inland port in the country. The Port of Erie connects to the Great Lakes.
Important Container Shipping Ports in Pennsylvania
- Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort): The Delaware River is a access poinn important access for global trade, ranking among the top 25 U.S. ports. It handles shipping containers, cargo and vehicles, crucial for importing fresh produce, meat and dairy. Key facilities include the Packer Avenue and Tioga Marine Terminals.
- Port of Pittsburgh: The second-busiest inland port in the U.S. is a key hub for Ohio River barge traffic, linking to the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Port of Erie: Situated on Lake Erie, this port offers access to the Great Lakes shipping system and features a 1,000-foot dry dock for ship repairs and construction.
- Port of Chester: An inland port on the Delaware River that specializes in manufacturing, particularly through Penn Terminals.
- Port of Marcus Hook: A smaller port located on the Delaware River, recognized for its expertise in handling specialized cargo.
Essential Logistics Infrastructure for Container Shipping to and from Pennsylvania
- Capacity & Growth: PhilaPort achieved a historic milestone, handling 762,000 TEUs in 2022, and has a long-term strategy to double its capacity nearly.
- Connectivity: The ports are accessible via Class I railroads (Norfolk Southern and CSX) and major highways, including I-95, I-76 and the PA Turnpike.
- Specialized Facilities: The ports along the Delaware River have extensive cold storage, making them a key gateway for perishable goods.
Permits and Regulations for Container Shipping in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, if you're using shipping containers for storage and you plan to keep them on-site for more than 30 days, you'll need a zoning permit.
If you're using heavy trucks that weigh more than 17,000 pounds, you'll need special permission to transport waste. There are also specific permits required for carrying loads heavier than 80,000 pounds.
It is important to be aware of specific rules, such as the need for safety clearances, restrictions on daytime travel and limitations on travel during holidays.
Regulations for Portable Storage Containers in Pennsylvania
- Permit Requirements: If you have a shipping container on your residential property, you usually need a special permit if it stays there for more than 30 days.
- Placement Rules: Containers should not block pathways, make it hard to see at intersections, or interfere with public sidewalks.
- Usage Restrictions: These containers should not be used to store any dangerous, harmful, or rotting garbage.
- Zoning: Containers are typically classified as accessory structures and are permitted in side or rear yards.
Regulations for Commercial Shipping and Transportation of Containers in Pennsylvania
- Weight Limits: The legal maximum road load limit for 5-axle vehicles is 80,000 lbs. Loads that exceed this limit require specific permits.
- Waste Transport: Vehicles transporting waste with a registered gross weight exceeding 17,000 lbs, or trailers over 10,000 lbs, must obtain a Waste Transportation Safety (Act 90) authorization.
- Commercial Hauling: Specific licenses and insurances, including general liability, vehicle, and worker's compensation, must be displayed on vehicles and containers, especially in waste management, according to LCSWMA.
- Alcohol Transportation: A Class A, B, or C Transporter-for-Hire License is necessary for the transportation of liquor or malt beverages, according to 40 Pa. Code.
Pennsylvania Oversize and Overweight (OSOW) Regulations
- Travel Hours: Transporting oversized equipment is permitted only when the sun is up, meaning from morning until evening.
- Restrictions: Hauling overweight machinery or large containers on Saturdays is allowed only from sunrise until noon, and no travel is permitted on Sundays or major holidays.
- Permits: Specific over-dimensional permits are necessary for each jurisdiction (state, county, township) when dimensions exceed standard limits.
- Route Planning: In Pennsylvania, a route engineer helps plan safe travel paths for very tall loads, reaching up to 17 feet, to avoid obstacles like bridges and power lines.
Transporting shipping containers in Pennsylvania requires specialized trucks costing $2.65 to $3.00 per mile. These heavy containers often need special transport permits. Standard sizes are 20 and 40 feet, loaded onto trailers for easier handling.
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Affordable and Timely Container Shipping Services in Pennsylvania
Heavy Equipment Transport offers affordable container transport services in Pennsylvania. In addition, we offer our clients free and accurate shipping quotes. For clients who want to transport shipping containers urgently, we offer expedited transport at an added fee.
We guarantee safe and timely delivery of shipping containers in Pennsylvania.
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Our Recent Transports
SHIPPING A 20FT CONTAINER ON A FLATBED TRAILER
Transport DetailsPittsburgh, PA
Medford, OR
This 6,500lbs and 20L 8W 8.6H container was loaded on a trailer using a crane before it was shipped from Pittsburgh, PA, to Medford, OR. Janelle Foltz, one of our container shipping specialists, ensured this loaded 20ft container was handled with care and delivered on time. Call us to transport containers to and from Pennsylvania at an affordable cost.
Pennsylvania Shipping Container Transport FAQs by Category
Transporting shipping containers in Pennsylvania requires specialized trucks costing $2.65 to $3.00 per mile. These heavy containers often need special transport permits. Standard sizes are 20 and 40 feet, loaded onto trailers for easier handling.
Logistics and Costs
What are the average transportation costs for containers in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, container transportation rates generally range from $2.65 to $3.00 per mile. Container transport rates can vary based on factors such as shipment weight, container type, distance traveled, and seasonal changes in fuel costs.
What types of trailers are used to transport containers in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, tilt-bed trucks are often used for unloading containers under 200 miles. High-cube containers, standing at 9'6", usually need step-deck trailers for height compliance.
Do I need permits to transport a container in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, if you're planning to move a container that is wider than 8.5 feet or taller than 14 feet, you'll need to get a special permit. This also applies when you're transporting hazardous materials. For loads that can't be broken down into smaller parts, an extra permit is necessary.
You might need to check for any local zoning or building permits for where you want to place the container.
How is a container loaded for transport in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, when loading containers onto trailers, special machinery such as cranes or strong forklifts is needed. Generally, forklifts can only handle containers about 20 feet long.
Regulations and Zoning
Do I need a building permit to use a shipping container for storage in Pennsylvania?
If you are planning to use a shipping container for storage in Pennsylvania, you might need a permit. Since regulations differ by location, it's advisable to check with your local authorities in PA for specific requirements.
Are shipping containers permitted for use as houses in Pennsylvania?
Shipping container homes are allowed in Pennsylvania but face strict local zoning laws and building codes that differ by municipality. They're typically easier to set up in industrial or commercial areas, while residential zones may only permit them for temporary construction storage.
What are the regulations for shipping containers in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, residential use of shipping containers is limited to one container for up to four months in a two-year period. A temporary zoning permit is typically needed after 30 days. Containers are restricted to industrial and commercial zones, must not obstruct traffic and cannot store hazardous materials.
Container Types and Preparation
What are the most popular types of shipping containers in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the most commonly used shipping containers are standard 20ft and 40ft dry storage containers, which are popular for logistics and storage due to their durability.
What items are prohibited when transporting a container in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, it's prohibited to transport certain items in containers, including dangerous materials like fuels, chemicals, explosives, perishable goods, live animals, and illegal items. There are specific regulations for flammable items, poisons and corrosive substances, particularly in Turnpike tunnels.
It's best to keep valuable belongings like important documents and jewelry with you.
What are the most popular container grades in Pennsylvania?
There is no single universal grading system for shipping containers, but the most common grades in Pennsylvania are Wind and Watertight (WWT) and Cargo Worthy (CW). New "one-trip" containers are also popular among buyers who prioritize aesthetics or plan to make extensive modifications.
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Shipping Container Transport Dimensions and Specifications
Pennsylvania container transport costs vary based on distance, port terminal, container status (loaded or empty), permits, routing, and delivery requirements. Submit your details above to receive accurate pricing and availability for your move.
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