Limited Time Offer: Get $100 Off Per Container
About Tampa, FL
The Tampa, FL market plays a vital role in regional and international trade, with containers serving as a cornerstone of its logistics infrastructure. As a growing hub for commerce, Tampa relies heavily on intermodal containers to support the movement of goods ranging from consumer products to industrial materials. These containers are brought into the area primarily through the Port of Tampa Bay—the largest port in Florida by tonnage—where they are offloaded from cargo ships arriving from global markets.
From the port, containers are transported to local depots via truck or rail, facilitating efficient distribution across Central Florida and beyond. This seamless integration of port and depot operations makes containerization instrumental to Tampa’s economic development and supply chain efficiency. Tampa Bay increasingly serves Asia–Latin America services with new crane and berth investments.
Local Economic Drivers in Tampa, FL
Population
As of the 2024 U.S. Census estimates, the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater metropolitan area is the second-largest in Florida, with a population of approximately 3.424 million.
Notable Employers
Raymond James, Publix, Macdill Air Force Base, Capital One, Progressive Insurance, and City of Tampa.
Key Industries in Tampa
Defense & Security, Financial & Professional Services, Life Sciences & Healthcare, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Distribution & Logistics, and Corporate HQs.
Major Imports & Exports for the Port Tampa Bay
- Large imports include fertilizer, leveraging phosphate mined in Central Florida , steel coils, lumber, construction materials, and fresh fruit (notably from Guatemala and Honduras).
- Port Tampa Bay ranks 16th nationally for freight volume in the continental U.S.
Seasonality of Used (Empty) Containers in Tampa
- Across major U.S. ports, container throughput dips in January–February and peaks in August–October.
- Port makeup and trade flows mean Tampa likely follows this pattern, with greater container availability (including used empties) right after the peak season.
- Tampa’s port handles both imports (construction materials, fresh fruit) and exports (e.g., fertilizer).
Implications for Used Container Availability
- Expect tight availability in early fall (Aug–Oct), followed by more used containers becoming available late fall into winter.
- Seasonal import surges (e.g., fruit) likely improve available supply for reefer and dry boxes during peak import periods.
- A strong import-export tariff balance at Tampa helps mitigate long empty repositioning cycles, enhancing local used container access.
What We Love About Tampa, Florida
Tampa, Florida, stands out as a vibrant city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with a laid-back coastal vibe. Known for its stunning waterfront views along the Hillsborough River and Tampa Bay, the city is a hub of activity with attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian pathway that connects cultural landmarks, restaurants, and parks. Tampa’s culinary scene is a highlight, featuring everything from fresh seafood to iconic Cuban cuisine, with the historic Ybor City offering a taste of its rich immigrant heritage. The city also hosts major events like Gasparilla, an annual pirate-themed festival that transforms Tampa into a lively celebration of parades, music, and revelry.
What truly makes Tampa cool is its unique mix of history, innovation, and outdoor living. Its downtown area is thriving, with modern developments like Water Street Tampa adding to the city’s cutting-edge appeal. Sports fans can cheer on teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Lightning, or Rays, while adventure seekers can explore nearby beaches, kayak through mangroves, or visit Busch Gardens for thrilling rides and wildlife encounters. The combination of sunshine, diverse cultural experiences, and a forward-thinking spirit makes Tampa an exciting and dynamic place to live or visit.
Tampa is a cool city, a busy port, and home to Sparksman Wharf, a used container-based venue constructed of 18 containers hosting event space and 18 different restaurants downtown. We like your style Tampa and your use of decommissioned Conex containers.