When moving from Hawaii to the mainland U.S.A. or a foreign country, shipping belongings over water involves some specific considerations. People moving over 4,000 pounds—or the typical amount of items for a two-bedroom apartment—frequently ask what the best method of transportation is. Ocean containers and liftvans are two types of compartments for storing belongings while on the long trip across the water. Take a look at some of the differences between them below to decide which option is more convenient for your move.   

Liftvans

A liftvan is a wooden crate used to pack smaller boxes and items. The crate is compatible with being stored in both ocean containers and standard storage vaults upon arrival at the final destination; this eliminates the need for individual boxes and items to be handled and moved twice instead of once. When the liftvans reach their destination, they can simply be moved as single units into the temporary storage vaults.

Ocean Containers

An ocean container is a type of large shipping or freight container that can carry both liftvans and other loose items. If you can take your property within a few days of arrival at your new destination, it is generally better to have your things packed “loose” in an ocean container. Doing so reduces transportation time by one, if not two, weeks, and also cuts costs.