Part 1 — Procurement Process: From Selecting a Container to Delivery

1) Selecting a Supplier & Sourcing

• New containers: Contact the manufacturer directly to customize. Choose the size you need (20GP / 40GP / 40HQ, etc.) and the configuration (standard dry, reefer, open-top, etc.).
• Used containers: Source through trading platforms or dealers. Focus closely on condition (rust, dents, structural damage) and the date of manufacture.

2) Inspection & Quality Check (Critical Step)

• Inspect the structure and sealing in line with the ISO 6346 standard.
• Require an inspection report from the supplier to avoid later disputes over container damage.
• The container must carry a valid CSC (International Convention for Safe Containers) Safety Approval Plate and nameplate, proving compliance with international safety standards. The plate is riveted to the lower-right of the container door and shows the max gross weight, date of manufacture, CSC certificate number, and more.
• We recommend engaging a third-party inspection body (e.g., SGS, BV) for pre-loading inspection.

3) Signing the Contract & Delivery

• Sign a purchase contract specifying container numbers, sizes, and delivery dates.
• Pay in full or by installments as agreed in the contract.

Part 2 — Proof of Ownership: What It Is & How to Confirm

Proof of ownership is the key document that proves to the shipping line that “this container is genuinely yours (the cargo owner)”.

Core Documents of Proof of Ownership

How to Confirm Your Proof of Ownership Is Valid

• Document authenticity: Ensure the purchase contract and invoice match, and are stamped with the supplier's official seal.
• Container-number match: The container numbers on the contract/invoice must exactly match the BIC Code shown on the physical container.
• Shipping-line review: Some carriers require box-owner information on file. Submit the above documents for review when booking.
• Country-specific rules: Some countries (e.g., India, Brazil) may require additional proof of container origin — confirm the destination-port policy in advance.

Part 3 — Export Declaration & Process

Step 1: Booking & Shipping-Line Review

• When booking, explicitly declare that an SOC container will be used.
• Submit proof of ownership, the inspection certificate, the CSC certificate, and other materials for carrier review.
• Confirm in advance: Not all carriers accept SOC containers; some limit container age (typically ≤10 years). Formal booking should begin only after receiving written confirmation from the carrier.

Step 2: Loading & Customs Declaration

• Cargo declaration: The goods inside the container go through normal export customs procedures.
• Customs declaration of the container itself (two cases):
  • Newly purchased & first export: The container itself is declared as “goods” and requires a separate export declaration (supervision mode: “general trade”).
  • Used container as transport equipment: No separate value declaration is required for the container itself.

Step 3: Bill of Lading & Manifest

• B/L notation: The “container number” field on the bill of lading is usually marked with the “SOC” prefix.
• Manifest filing: The carrier is usually not responsible for sending the SOC container manifest. You (or your agent) must complete the EDI manifest filing before the cut-off time.

Step 4: Destination-Port Discharge & Empty-Container Handling (Most Error-Prone)

• After the cargo is unloaded, the empty container can be sold or stored in the destination country, or arranged to be shipped back.
• If shipped back to China: It must be declared for import separately as “temporary entry/exit” or “returned goods,” and a deposit may be required.

Key Considerations

At RAD PREFABS, our company is committed to paying more attention to the quality of construction materials and producing good, affordable house products with quality as the core and main competitiveness.

We are dedicated to highlighting the advantages of our products — bringing extraordinary results to every ecological civilization project.

Quality at the Core

Are you ready to experience the speed and quality of prefab component‑assembled construction for your next project? Our prefabricated system is designed to deliver reliable, affordable, and ready‑to‑assemble house products — without compromise.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Whether you are developing a single vacation villa, a resort, or a large‑scale hospitality project, RAD PREFABS has the expertise, the quality standards, and the global shipping experience to deliver fast.