Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Jan, 07 2026
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Container To Tonga?
Getting to know the total cost of shipping a container to Tonga can be a little bit complicated, and this is a result of some factors which normally affect the relocating cost; thereby creating variations in international shipping rates.
This is going to serve as a guide for you to know all the necessary information regarding the factors that affect the cost of hauling.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Shipping
Here, we are going to state and analyze all the factors that affect the cost of moving. You can also use our online freight calculator to check the cost for international shipment and international freight for our moving services. Below are those factors and their analysis:
The Volume/Weight of the Goods
This is a crucial consideration because it dictates the type of moving goods you will employ which in turn affects the cost of delivering your items. When shifting via air for instance the primary worry is with the cargo weight while hauling via sea the primary issue is with the cargo dimensions.
The Distance of the Journey
The total distance taken to complete your move will have an impact on the costs. This is because a long-distance move typically costs much more than a short-distance move.
Type of Transport
The transportation mode you select will also impact the costs and time it will take to ship your goods from one location to the other. For example, using air freight is a lot faster and more expensive than using sea freight.
The Destination Port
The customs duties of the destination port also affect the cost of shipping. The customs tariffs are calculated based on the CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) of your goods.
The Time of the Year
The peak period for moving is between July and August, so it's best you avoid those months when shipping so that you may get a good deal.
Average Shipping Rates Estimates
FCL shipping is best for transporting lots of boxes, pallets and anything which will require a full container of up to 45,000lbs.
Full Container Load (FCL) Rates | |
|---|---|
| 20 ft Container | $940 |
| 40 ft Container | $1230 |
LCL shipping is more affordable way to transport less than container load shipments.
Less Than Container (LCL) Shipping Rates | |
|---|---|
| LCL | $56/CBM |
| Personal Effects | $520 |
| Household Goods | $665 |
International house moving to Tonga services - quick, easy and cheap.
International House Moving Costs | |
|---|---|
| Partial House (2000Lbs & Less) | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom (3850 Lbs) | $1460 |
| 2 Bedroom (4500 Lbs) | $2265 |
| 3+ Bedroom (8750 Lbs) | $3005 |
International auto transport services via RoRo and container ships. Ship cars, trucks, suv, atv's, boats, RV's, heavy equipment and more.
Container Car Hauling | |
|---|---|
| Sedan via RORO | $795 |
| SUV via RORO | $855 |
| Sedan (Container) | $940 |
| SUV (Container) | $1160 |
Which Size of Container is Suitable for Me?
There are two particular types of containers that are normally used for shipping, and they are the 20ft and 40ft. although, there are also high cube for moving lots of goods.
How Big is a 20ft Container?
A 20ft is a container whose interior is 19.4ft long, 7.9ft wide, and 7.10ft high. It's roughly the size of a garage and it can easily hold the content of 2-3 bedrooms.
How Big is a 40ft Container?
A 40ft is a container whose interior is 39.5ft long, 7.9ft wide, and 7.9ft high. As the name implies, it's twice the size of a 20ft ; however, it doesn't cost twice as much.
The Difference Between FCL and LCL
A "Full Container Load" (FCL) is a scenario whereby a customer uses an entire container for his shipment while a "Less Than Container Load" (LCL) involves having individuals with a smaller volume of goods sharing.
Understanding the Different Types of Transportation
Sea Freight
Tonga has three harbors and a marine fleet of 7 ships, which contains two cargo ships (of over 1000 gt). It is the most ideal means to ship items into the country.
Air Freight
This is another logical means of shipping your goods into Tonga. The country has 6 airports with just one having paved runways.
Truck Freight
Although the country has about 680km of highways, only the roads in its capital city are in good condition. Nevertheless, it is the only means of transporting your goods via land in the country.
Train Freight
Tonga has no railway network.
Additional Costs
Tonga has other shipping charges allocated to imported goods aside from the VAT. These are:
- Customs duties
- General Rate Increase (GRI)
- Quarantine fees
- Container inspection fees
- Inland delivery charges
- Insurance cover
What's Next?
Your next line of action is to use the services of Three Movers whenever you are shipping. Kindly fill our web form and get a free quote in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of shipping a container to Tonga typically ranges from $3,800–$7,500 for a 20-foot container and $6,500–$11,000 for a 40-foot container. Pricing is driven by container size, origin port, fuel surcharges, and island port handling fees. Door-to-door service increases costs due to inland transport and customs coordination. For broader benchmarks, review our international moving costs breakdown.
Container shipping costs to Tonga are influenced by container size (20-ft vs 40-ft), cargo weight, type of goods, and origin country. Additional cost variables include limited carrier availability, transshipment via New Zealand or Australia, seasonal demand, and destination port congestion. Peak shipping periods between May and September can raise ocean freight rates by 10–20 percent.
Shipping a container to Tonga generally takes 25–45 days from the U.S. West Coast and 35–55 days from the East Coast. Transit time includes ocean sailing, transshipment delays, and customs clearance at Nuku’alofa. Weather disruptions and limited vessel schedules in the South Pacific can extend delivery windows, especially during cyclone season.
Yes, shipping a container to Tonga is classified as overseas international shipping and follows global maritime regulations. Costs differ from domestic moves due to ocean freight pricing models, foreign port fees, and customs compliance requirements. Understanding overseas cost structures is essential before booking, as outlined in our moving overseas shipping costs guide.
A 20-foot container is suitable for a studio to 2-bedroom household, while a 40-foot container fits a 3–5 bedroom home or vehicle-inclusive shipment. Selecting the correct size helps avoid unused space charges or overweight penalties. Port handling limits and maximum gross weight, typically 44,000 lbs, should be confirmed before shipment.
Customs duties and taxes are not included in standard container shipping quotes to Tonga. Importers pay customs duties, excise taxes, and local port service fees separately upon arrival. Charges depend on declared value, cargo classification, and country of origin. Accurate documentation helps prevent clearance delays and storage penalties.
Yes, personal belongings can be shipped to Tonga in a dedicated container under an international moving service arrangement. Costs vary based on inventory volume, packing requirements, insurance coverage, and delivery method. Proper export packing and labeling are critical to avoid customs issues, especially for household goods shipped long-distance. Learn more about options through our long distance moving service.
