Book a container for shipping: your complete step-by-step guide
When you need to book a container for shipping, the process can feel overwhelming especially when you are dealing with multiple carriers, uncertain pricing, and complex documentation. However, it does not have to be that way. With the right digital platform, you can book a container for shipping in just a few simple steps, with full transparency and instant confirmation. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started with 7ConBooking.
Book a container for shipping: choosing the right container type
Before you book a container for shipping, the first decision is selecting the right container for your cargo. Your choice directly impacts cost, transit options, and cargo safety. The most common container types include:
- 20ft Standard Container, ideal for dense, heavy cargo
- 40ft Standard Container, suited for larger, moderate-weight shipments
- 40ft High Cube (HC), provides extra height for voluminous or lightweight cargo
- Reefer Container, temperature-controlled, essential for perishable goods
- Flat Rack / Open Top, designed for oversized or out-of-gauge cargo
On the 7ConBooking platform, you can compare all available container types instantly, so you always choose the most cost-effective solution for your specific needs.
Step 2: Decide between FCL and LCL
Another key decision when you book a container for shipping is whether to use a Full Container Load (FCL) or a Less than Container Load (LCL).
- FCL is ideal when your cargo fills an entire container. It offers greater security, faster transit times, and lower per-unit costs at volume.
- LCL is cost-effective for smaller shipments that do not fill a full container. Your goods are consolidated with other shippers' cargo.
7ConBooking supports both FCL and LCL bookings across a wide range of trade lanes, giving you flexibility regardless of your shipment size. According to BIMCO, understanding load configuration choices is one of the most impactful decisions shippers can make when optimising freight costs.
Step 3: Enter your shipment details and compare rates
Once you have decided on your container type and load configuration, the next step is entering your shipment details on the 7ConBooking platform. Input your origin, destination, cargo weight and dimensions, and your preferred departure window. The platform then generates a full list of available options, including:
- Carrier name and service
- Transit time
- Departure and arrival dates
- All-in price including surcharges
You can sort and filter results based on whichever criteria matter most — whether that is cost, speed, or sustainability.
Step 4: Customise your quote
After selecting your preferred option, you can further customise your quote to include additional services such as inland transport (door-to-port or door-to-door), cargo insurance via the 7ConBooking Global Insurance Plan, customs clearance assistance, and warehousing and fulfilment. These options allow you to book a container for shipping as a complete, end-to-end solution, rather than piecing together services from multiple providers.
Step 5: Confirm and manage documentation
Once you are satisfied with your quote, simply confirm your booking with a single click. Your booking confirmation is generated instantly, and all associated documentation, including the bill of lading and customs paperwork, is managed digitally within the platform. This significantly reduces administrative overhead and eliminates the risk of errors caused by manual data entry.
