Abstract: A smart container gateway system is provided to improve security and facilitate global secure supply chain operations using smart containers or freight trailers. Each smart container includes a smart container gateway that provides communication with global and local networks, container and cargo security sensors and cargo identification tags. The smart container gateway displaces no interior volume from standard shipping containers, and requires no attachment to any exterior container surface, locking bar or handle. The system includes a central data collection and processing facility for processing container location, security status of the container and cargo and cargo state information collected by at least one smart container gateway and transmitted over a global wireless network. The smart container gateway requires no separate or intermediate communications relay equipment fixed to the cargo transportation vehicle. The smart container gateway is self powered and requires no external antenna.