The diploma thesis describes seaborne transport of goods in general, and furthermore specifies the current dilemma of existing cartels - conferences - in this industry. I also describe containerization, general situation on container transport market with a hint of latest information about this market. Next chapter describes legislative rules of European Union that shape import of goods to Union. As it was not possible to describe all of them, I concentrate only on those rules involving import of containers. The goal of researching EU import legislation was to familiriaze myself with all activities and information, which an importer must take care of and possess, before he gets in touch with a shipping carrier about the transport itself. I managed to mention the most basic and important points, which importers of goods must apply.