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BlueCargo Blog

Shipping Freight from FL to CA

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At BlueCargo, we understand the importance of cost savings for our shippers and BCOs. That's why we offer container tracking services, including for the Ports on the East Coast. Recently, we've noticed that some of our customers who are shipping containers from New-York | New-Jersey, and Miami, are exploring the option of shipping these containers from NY or Florida to California.

To help our customers make informed decisions, we've researched this option and have some valuable insights to share.


How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Container from Florida to California?

Are you planning to move your 20's, 40's, and Reefers from Florida to California?
Shipping a container might be a cost-effective option, but how much will it actually cost you?
Let's break it down. πŸ’°πŸ“¦

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🌴🚒 Shipping by Sea πŸŒŠπŸ›³οΈ

If you need to move a container overseas, like from Florida to California, you'll likely have to ship it by sea. In this case, the cost of shipping can go up substantially. For example, a 20-foot container shipped from Hilo, HI to Long Beach, CA costs just over $6,000.

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πŸššπŸ’Έ Shipping by Land πŸ’ΈπŸš›

Moving a container by land is usually less expensive than by sea. However, the cost can still vary depending on the size of the container and the distance it needs to travel. For instance, moving a 16-foot container over 2,115 miles from Florida to California costs around $3,239, or $1.53 per mile. If you opt for a smaller 7-foot container instead, it would cost you $2,800 or $1.32 per mile.

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πŸ“¦πŸš› Size Matters πŸš›πŸ“¦

"That's What she said"...
The Office joke apart, before choosing a container, consider the size of your shipment. If you have a lot of items to move, a larger container like a 40-foot might be the most cost-effective choice. On the other hand, if you have fewer items, you might save money with a smaller container.

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πŸ’°πŸ’³ Other Costs πŸ’³πŸ’°

In addition to shipping costs, there are some other expenses you should factor in when moving a container. For instance, insurance costs can vary depending on the size of your container and the value of the items inside. You'll also need to pay for storage if you need to keep the container somewhere before you pick it up. Fuel and mileage costs depend on the distance the container needs to travel, while customs and duties fees apply if you're shipping your container overseas.

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🚚🏭 Add-on Services 🏭🚚

Finally, you might want to consider add-on services like packing, loading, and unloading, especially if you're moving delicate or heavy items. These services can cost anywhere from $850 for packing supplies to $4,100 for the traverse, which involves moving the container from side to side.

In conclusion, the cost of shipping a container from Florida to California depends on various factors like the size of the container, the distance it needs to travel, and additional services you might need. To get an accurate estimate, it's best to request a quote from a freight shipping company that specializes in container transport.


At BlueCargo, we're always on the lookout for new ways to help our customers save time and money. While we're excited about our upcoming 2023 project to track freight transported by rail, we understand that every shipment counts today.

That's why we offer container tracking services that allow shippers and BCOs to easily track their containers' journey inside major US ports and receive real-time insights on active shipments, including whether they are at risk of per diem and demurrage fees.

Why wait for the future when you can optimize your shipping operations today? Try HEREΒ BlueCargo and experience the difference for yourself!

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