Container Shipment
We offer reliable Less than Container Load (LCL) and Full Container Load (FCL) shipping solutions for your business needs. Thanks to DHL’s trusted global network, you can move your goods across oceans quickly and confidently.
From Austria to over 190 countries and territories worldwide, DHL delivers securely by ocean and rail to keep your supply chain moving — on time, every time.
Partner with DHL and discover how we can transform your global logistics today.
Container Shipment Solutions for Your Business
DHL’s container shipment services connect Austrian businesses to over 190 countries worldwide through both ocean and rail. Our expertise in containerization in shipping ensures your goods are transported securely, efficiently, and in full compliance with international standards.
Whether you’re exporting manufactured goods, importing raw materials, or expanding into new global markets, our overseas shipping container services give you reliable and flexible options tailored to your needs.
From Austria, we offer seamless access to the world’s most important trade lanes. Ship by ocean to Asia-Pacific, the Americas, the Middle East and beyond, or choose rail along the Europe–Asia corridor for a faster, sustainable alternative. With every shipment, our advanced digital tools provide full visibility from pickup to delivery.
Depending on your cargo size, you can choose between Full Container Load (FCL) for dedicated containers or Less than Container Load (LCL) when sharing space is the more cost-effective option. Our portfolio includes:
- DHL Ocean Freight FCL: Dedicated Full Container Load service for larger shipments, providing secure and reliable space on established global routes.
- DHL Ocean Freight LCL: Flexible Less than Container Load shipping for smaller volumes, giving you the advantages of DHL’s global network without the need to book a full container.
- DHL Rail FCL: Full Container Load transport by rail between Europe and Asia, combining speed, cost-efficiency and sustainability.
- DHL Rail LCL: Shared rail containers for smaller shipments on the same corridor, with scheduled departure and reliable lead times.
Ready to Optimize Your Container Shipping?
See how our shipment solutions can form part of the plan for your business. Let’s move your business forward, one shipment at a time.
Why Choose DHL for Your Container Shipment?
- Austria to World Access: Our seamless road and rail connections link Austria to Europe’s leading ports and rail hubs — opening access to global trade lanes.
- Established Global Trade Lanes: With reliable container shipment services linking Europe to Asia-Pacific, the Americas, the Middle East and beyond, our international shipping container network supports your global ambitions.
- End-to-End Expertise: From customs clearance to final delivery, we handle every stage with precision and transparency.
- Sustainability Options: Reduce emissions with DHL’s GoGreen Plus ocean freight service or choose rail as an environmentally friendly alternative.
Take a Look Inside Our Container Shipping Processes
How does Container Shipping Work with DHL?
Our process is designed not only for one-off shipments but also for long-term integration into your supply chain when you partner with DHL.
Shipping a container with DHL is simple, transparent and fully supported by our team of logistics experts. Here’s how we move your goods with precision and care:
Connect With a Container Shipping Expert
In just few easy steps, tell us a little more about your container shipment needs. Your answers let us connect you to the right expert to answer your questions.
Explore Our Container Shipping Types & Value-added Services
DHL offers flexible container freight solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of your business. From standard containers to specialized equipment, we have the right solution for your cargo:
- 20ft Containers: Perfect for smaller shipments or for consolidated cargo.
- 40ft High Cube: Containers offering extra height for bulky shipments, such as furniture or machinery.
- 45ft Containers: Ideal for large-scale exports from manufacturers.
- Reefer Containers: Also known as refrigerated containers. These are used for goods that require temperature regulation, like food, electronics or medicine.
- Tank Containers: For transporting food, oil, fuel and chemical liquids.
- Open-Top Containers: For oversized industrial equipment and bulky cargo requiring crane loading from the top of the container.
- Flat-Rack and Platform Containers: Designed for very heavy or oversized cargo, such as heavier machinery and construction equipment.
In addition to our standard services which are included for every container shipment you can also choose from the following additional services:
- Shipment Value Protection covering one-off shipments or over defined periods
- Customs services to take the complexity out of customs processes
- GoGreen Plus with sustainable marine fuel to reduce emissions (Ocean only).
- Storage and warehousing options at origin and destination
- 20ft Containers: Perfect for smaller shipments or for consolidated cargo.
- 40ft High Cube: Containers offering extra height for bulky shipments, such as furniture or machinery.
- 45ft Containers: Ideal for large-scale exports from manufacturers.
- Reefer Containers: Also known as refrigerated containers. These are used for goods that require temperature regulation, like food, electronics or medicine.
- Tank Containers: For transporting food, oil, fuel and chemical liquids.
- Open-Top Containers: For oversized industrial equipment and bulky cargo requiring crane loading from the top of the container.
- Flat-Rack and Platform Containers: Designed for very heavy or oversized cargo, such as heavier machinery and construction equipment.
In addition to our standard services which are included for every container shipment you can also choose from the following additional services:
- Shipment Value Protection covering one-off shipments or over defined periods
- Customs services to take the complexity out of customs processes
- GoGreen Plus with sustainable marine fuel to reduce emissions (Ocean only).
- Storage and warehousing options at origin and destination
Ready to Choose Your DHL Container Shipping Solution?
Get tailored solutions that move your business forward.
Container Shipment Rates
DHL believes in transparent container shipping rates with no hidden surprises. Our container shipping costs are structured to provide maximum value for businesses while maintaining the flexibility you need for international trade.
Contact our shipping experts to understand how container shipping rates are calculated.
What's Included in the Offer?
Our container shipping rates include comprehensive services designed specifically for exporters and importers. Here's what's usually included in your base price:
- Ocean or Rail Freight Charges: For transportation via our global network
- Customs Brokerage: Standard import and export customs filing
- Pre- & On Carriage: Transport to and from ports or terminals
- Tracking & Monitoring: Full shipment tracking available
What Factors Will Affect My Shipping Rate?
Our international container shipping prices are competitive across all major trade lanes. Container shipping rates vary based on several factors:
- Your origin port or rail hub
- Final destination country
- Container size and type required
- Choice of mode (ocean vs rail)
- Seasonal demand
- Any additional services requested
What About Commercial Freight Rates?
Businesses that ship regularly can benefit from preferential rates through DHL’s business programs. By committing to consistent volumes, you can access competitive freight rates for container shipments along with dedicated account management.
Discover how DHL can help expand your business today as a reliable partner.
Case Study
Handling Complex Battery Shipments
DHL's container shipment solutions have helped businesses optimize their international shipping and drive growth in global markets. A global battery manufacturer needed to transport large volumes of lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries — classified as Dangerous Goods — from China to Europe, the US, and Australia.
DHL developed a tailored ocean freight solution using Full Container Load (FCL) international shipping container services that ensured compliance with all international safety regulations, optimized routes for cost efficiency, and secured priority space on key trade lanes. This partnership allowed the customer to move heavy, high-risk cargo reliably across continents while meeting production deadlines and maintaining strict safety standards.
Learn more about our globally recognized work for the highly-specialized task of transporting batteries as well as liquids and dangerous items.
Connect With a Container Shipping Expert
In just few easy steps, tell us a little more about your container shipment needs. Your answers let us connect you to the right expert to answer your questions.
FAQ - Common Questions About Container Shipment
Yes, along with Full Container Load (FCL), DHL also offers LCL solutions for smaller volumes — by both ocean and rail.
In Full Container Load (FCL) shipping, your cargo occupies an entire shipping container, giving you dedicated space and faster handling. In Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping, your goods share container space with other shippers, which can be more cost-effective for smaller volumes but may involve slightly longer transit times.
Because Austria is landlocked, DHL arranges pre-carriage to Europe’s main seaports or rail hubs, and on-carriage after arrival, ensuring seamless door-to-door delivery.
Yes, DHL Global Forwarding is certified to transport dangerous goods by ocean, in full compliance with international safety regulations. Please note that Rail FCL and LCL services do not allow dangerous goods.
DHL combines global reach with local expertise. From customs clearance to inland transport, all shipments come with full tracking and dedicated customer support.
When Partnering with DHL, you will benefit from volume-based pricing. dedicated account management, and integrated supply chain solutions tailored to your growth plans. Find out more about the advantages for your business when shipping with DHL.
You can use DHL’s shipping rates calculator to get instant, all-inclusive estimates for your shipment. For complex or high-volume shipments, our experts can provide a tailored quote.