SOC
Term Summary
SOC, or Shipper's Own Container, refers to a container owned or leased by the shipper instead of the carrier. This article explains what SOC means in freight forwarding, details its key differences from carrier-owned containers (COC), outlines scenarios where shippers benefit from using SOC.
SOC, or Shipper’s Own Container, is a term used in the shipping and logistics industry to describe containers that are owned or leased by the shipper (consignor) rather than being supplied by the shipping line (carrier). This term is frequently contrasted with COC (“Carrier’s Owned Container”).
Key Concepts and Terminology
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| SOC (Shipper’s Own Container) | A shipping container supplied and owned/leased by the cargo owner (shipper), not by the shipping line. |
| COC (Carrier’s Owned Container) | A shipping container provided and owned by the carrier or shipping line itself. |
When Are SOCs Used?
- Cost Optimization: Shippers use SOCs to avoid detention and demurrage charges from shipping lines.
- Supply Chain Flexibility: Useful in trade routes or regions where containers are in short supply, or for one-way cargo movements.
- Special Cargo: When transporting project cargo, personal effects, or oversize goods that require special containers unavailable from carriers.
Main Differences Between SOC and COC
| Feature | SOC (Shipper’s Own Container) | COC (Carrier’s Owned Container) |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Shipper or third party | Shipping line/carrier |
| Responsibility | Shipper (arrange pick-up, return, maintenance) | Carrier (arrange pick-up, return, maintenance) |
| Flexibility | High (especially for unique cargos or remote ports) | Standardized, less flexible for special needs |
| Potential Cost Savings | Possible (detention/demurrage avoidance, long-term cost efficiency) | May incur higher charges if return deadlines are missed |
| Availability | Depends on shipper’s own resources | Widely available on most carrier networks |
| Container Tracking | Shipper must manage tracking/logistics | Carrier provides tracking and support |
Ready to Ship?
Get your goods moving with our reliable freight forwarding services
Professional handling • Competitive rates • Global coverage