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Shipping Companies to Hawaii: What You Need to Know Before You Book

Shipping freight to Hawaii is unlike any other route in the U.S. — and if you're not familiar with the logistics, it can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you're a business moving palletized goods, a government contractor handling project freight, or a mainland shipper looking for last-mile delivery, understanding how shipping companies to Hawaii work is the first step to a smooth supply chain.

At Preferred Transportation Services, we partner with freight forwarders, retailers, and manufacturers to receive and deliver freight across Oahu and beyond. While we’re not an ocean freight carrier ourselves, we’re a trusted on-island logistics provider that completes the job once your freight touches Hawaii soil.

How Shipping to Hawaii Works (in a Nutshell)

Most shipments to Hawaii arrive via ocean freight in 20- or 40-foot containers. These shipments are typically handled by mainland shipping companies like:

  • Matson

  • Pasha Hawaii

  • Aloha Freight Forwarders

  • DHX (Dependable Hawaiian Express)

Once containers arrive in Honolulu or another port, businesses need a local delivery partner to:

  • Unload (deconsolidate) freight

  • Store short-term if needed

  • Deliver to stores, job sites, warehouses, or homes

That’s where Preferred Transportation Services comes in.

The Local Side of “Shipping Companies to Hawaii”

While ocean carriers get your freight to the islands, on-island distribution is just as important. Here’s what to consider after your container lands:

1. Do You Need a Warehouse Partner?

We offer short- and long-term storage in our Honolulu facility—ideal if your freight arrives early or if you need time to coordinate drop-offs.

2. Need Help Breaking Bulk?

We’ll receive your container, sort and separate goods by location, re-palletize them, and handle all final-mile delivery.

3. No Loading Dock? No Problem.

Our liftgate-equipped trucks, forklifts, and inside delivery crews can deliver your freight directly to retail storefronts, offices, homes, or military bases.

4. Want a Local Team You Can Trust?

As a Hawaii-based company, we know the island’s roads, regulations, and logistics inside and out. And yes—we answer the phone when you call.

Why Clients Choose Preferred Transportation After Shipping to Hawaii

  • Fast, reliable delivery across Oahu

  • Flatbeds, box trucks, refrigerated trucks & liftgate service

  • White-glove, inside, and residential delivery options

  • Military base clearance and GSA vendor experience

  • Local drivers, clear communication, and responsive support

We partner with mainland shippers, 3PLs, and freight forwarders to complete the Hawaii delivery chain—seamlessly.

Not All Shipping Companies to Hawaii Offer End-to-End Service

Many companies can get your freight to Hawaii. But very few handle what happens after it lands. That’s why Preferred Transportation Services is trusted by national brands, local businesses, and government contractors alike—to complete the final leg of the journey.

Need On-Island Delivery Support?

If your freight is en route to Hawaii—or sitting at the port—we’re ready to receive, store, and deliver it on your behalf.

Request a quote or contact Preferred Transportation Services to schedule pickup and delivery.

We work with shipping companies to Hawaii every day—and we’re proud to be the partner they trust once the ship comes in.

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About

Locally owned and operated, Preferred Transportation Services is one of Hawaii’s leading full-service transportation companies based on the Island of Oahu. We specialize in the transportation of Containerized Freight, Construction and Building materials, Household Goods, Oversized Cargo, Retail Merchandise, and more!