[NeedMoreTea]

> small towns don't use container ships

Nor do most major cities. The vast bulk of UK and most country's trade goes through just their top 6 or 8 ports. The container comes off a ship, then gets to the other cities and towns via rail or road. You get a similar picture across most regions.

> small towns tend to have longer trips from the grocery store

Not in my experience. Usually far less travel, and less congestion to the shops and superstore. There may be fewer stores overall. I'm assuming the town is large enough to have at least one supermarket here. You may well be right if you're thinking of having to make a trip to the next town over to do the shopping.