Freight Types, Incoterms & Compliance, Shipping & Transportation

Logistics professionals inspecting a shipping container under EXW and DDP Incoterms
Whether importing machinery from Asia or exporting goods across the Americas, container shipping can make or break your operation. Beyond choosing FCL or LCL, your chosen Incoterms—EXW, DAP, or DDP—strongly impact costs, responsibilities, and timelines.
At The ILS Company, we craft container shipping strategies that fit your supply chain and Incoterms, ensuring your cargo moves efficiently and compliantly.

 

Table of Contents

 

What Are Container Shipping Services?

Container shipping services involve transporting goods in standardized shipping containers (typically 20ft or 40ft), either as full loads or shared space. This method is the backbone of international trade, offering cost efficiency, cargo security, and scalability.
A reliable provider like The ILS Company handles booking, pickup, customs clearance, and delivery—tailored to your Incoterm and cargo type.
Container ship representing modern container shipping services at sea

Container shipping services power global trade with reliable ocean transport

 

Container Types: FCL, LCL, and Special Equipment

Type Description Best For
FCL (Full Container Load) One shipper, one full container Large-volume shipments
LCL (Less than Container Load) Shared container space Small or varied shipments
Reefer Temperature-controlled containers Perishables (food, pharma)
Open-top/Flat-rack Oversized or non-stackable cargo Machinery, vehicles, etc.

At The ILS Company, we help you choose the ideal container type based on volume, urgency, and risk tolerance.

 

Why Incoterms Matter in Container Shipping

Your chosen Incoterm defines who is responsible for what—costs, risks, and tasks—along the logistics journey. It impacts:

  • Who handles export customs

  • Who pays for freight

  • Who clears goods at the destination

  • Who manages delivery to the final location

 

EXW vs. DAP vs. DDP: Choosing the Right Term

Here’s a breakdown of how each Incoterm impacts container shipping:

Incoterm Responsibility Freight Booking Customs Handling Best For
EXW (Ex Works) Buyer handles most of the process Buyer Buyer Experienced importers with own freight setup
DAP (Delivered at Place) Seller handles everything except duties Seller Buyer (destination) Balanced risk between buyer & seller
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Seller handles everything Seller Seller End-to-end managed shipments

The ILS Company adapts its container shipping services to your chosen Incoterm—whether you’re in full control or want a hands-off solution.

 

How to Align Your Shipping Services with Incoterms

  • If using EXW: We coordinate pickups from the seller’s location and handle all export + freight + delivery.

  • If using DAP: We book freight and deliver to your designated warehouse or site, with customs handled by you.

  • If using DDP: We manage the full journey—freight, duties, clearance, last-mile delivery, and even documentation.

With The ILS Company, you get container shipping tailored to your business model.

Logistics experts inspecting final delivery of goods in a warehouse

At the ILS Company we ensure your cargo is delivered, inspected, and ready—right at your warehouse, with zero hassle

 

How The ILS Company Simplifies Container Logistics

✔️ End-to-end planning aligned with Incoterms
✔️ FCL & LCL expertise for all cargo types
✔️ Port-to-door and multimodal coordination
✔️ Customs documentation and trade compliance
✔️ Real-time visibility from pickup to delivery

Whether you’re importing electronics to Guadalajara or exporting textiles to the US, The ILS Company builds a strategy that works for your flow and budget.

 

FAQs

What type of container should I use for partial shipments?

LCL (Less-than-Container Load) is cost-effective if you don’t fill a full container. We help evaluate your volume and frequency.

Can I change my Incoterm after confirming a shipment?

It’s possible, but may involve contract updates and new coordination. We guide you through the whole process if needed.

What’s the best Incoterm for first-time importers?

DDP is ideal for new importers—it puts the responsibility on the shipper and keeps things simple.

Are container shipping services available for urgent cargo?

Yes. We offer expedited services, sometimes mixing air, sea, and ground transport depending on the route and cargo load.

 

Conclusion: Make the Right Shipping Call with The ILS Company

Selecting the right container shipping services involves more than just booking space; it’s about aligning your Incoterm, cargo type, and business goals.

At The ILS Company, we don’t just ship; we strategize. Receive expert guidance, full visibility, and seamless logistics tailored to your needs.

📩 Let’s build your ideal shipping plan. Contact The ILS Company today.