SOC is the abbreviation for Shipper Owned Container or Shipper's Own(ed) Container. This container – which can be new or used – is the property of the shipper and is used to ship goods. In some cases the carriers will add an extra surcharge on top of the ocean freight, as they want to use the space on board for their own equipment only. Do note an SOC must be CSC plated. A CSC (Convention for Safe Containers) inspection check whether the container is sea worthy and the plate is valid for a calendar year.