Around 90% of the world’s goods are transported by ship. To handle such a large volume, there are many different sizes and types of freight shipping containers. As an importer, it’s important to know which container sizes and types are best for your goods. Picking the right container will help you protect your goods, stay on budget, and increase transportation efficiency.Â
So here’s a guide to help you select the best shipping container for your needs.
If you want to know our latest container prices, you can visit “Container Rates” to check.
Types and Sizes of Containers
We have listed down eleven different kinds of containers available for shipping, each serving a unique purpose.
Standard Container
Purpose
Standard dry containers, made of steel or aluminium, are common in the industry.Â
These containers are intended for the carriage of dry cargo such as apparels, electronics, pallets and grains among others. Â
Also, standard containers are custom made in any size to suit the nature of the goods that you are transporting. Standard dry shipping containers aren’t just for transportation, but they can also be transformed into homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
Advantages
Durability: Made of sturdy materials such as steel, making the containers durable and capable of withstanding unfavourable conditions during transit and storage.
Intermodal Capability: Standard containers are transportable by sea, rail, road transport, hence giving ease of transportation and delivery.
Cost-Effective: Standard containers are generally cheaper than specialised type of containers mainly because they are commonly used and designed in a more uniform manner.
Disadvantages
Ventilation: These containers do not have any provision for ventilation; this can be a disadvantage when dealing with products that need fresh air to avoid spoiling.
No Temperature Control: Standard containers lacks the control of temperature making it not suitable for cargo that require cool or heat treatment
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft |
|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.9m / 19.4ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.8ft | 2.4m / 7.9ft |
| Inner height | 2.39m / 7.9ft | 2.39m / 7.9ft |
| Dead weight | 2,300kg / 5,071.5 lbs | 3,750kg / 8,268.8 lbs |
| Load | 25,000 kg / 55,126.9 lbs | 27,600kg / 61,200 lbs |
| Volume | 33.2 m3Â / 1,172 cu ft | 67.7 m3Â / 2,389 cu ft |
High Cube Container
Purpose
High cube containers serve the same purpose as standard containers, but they offer an additional one foot height. This extra space is ideal for shipping large quantities of loose items that are heavy in volume but light in weight. They are popular and readily available, though prices can vary.Â
In case you are not able to accommodate your shipment in a standard container, you may opt for a high cube container.
Advantages
Extra Space: The main advantage of high cube cargo containers is that they offer additional height which comes in handy when transferring or storing taller items.
Flexibility: Apart from transportation they are perfect for residential and commercial use, offices on wheels or movable shops because of additional space above the door.
Disadvantages
Potential Weight Issues: Although these containers may be more spacious, they may not be ideal for carrying heavier goods. Because the floor and framework can be under pressure when loaded with excessive weight.
Compatibility: Not all ports or transport systems have the capacity of handling this extra height.
| Dimensions | 40ft High Cube Container | 45ft High Cube Container |
|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 12.03m/39.5ft | 13.55m/44.5ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.8ft | 2.35m / 7.8ft |
| Inner height | 2.70m / 8.10ft | 2.70m / 8.10ft |
| Dead weight | 3,900kg / 8,598 lbs | 4,800kg / 10,552 lbs |
| Load | 28,600 kg / 63,052 lbs | 27,700kg / 61,067 lbs |
| Volume | 76.3 m3Â / 2,694.5 cu ft | 86 m3Â / 3,037 cu ft |
Double Door Container
Purpose
Double door containers, also known as tunnel containers, contain doors on both ends of the container. This kind of container is mainly ideal for shipment of goods that take much effort while loading or unloading goods because of their bulky and unusual dimensions.
For instance, you can drive in cars through the one end for off-loading and out through the other end at the delivery point without having to make any tricky movements.
Advantages
Enhanced accessibility:Â
Double door shipping containers eliminate the challenges of moving cargo in tight spaces.Â
Improved space utilisation:Â
Tunnel container design maximises space usage, which is especially beneficial when transporting large quantities of goods. The doors on the open ends make the unit easier to partition. It’s simple to manage the use of its open room from the front and rear ends.
Disadvantages
Limited Availability: These containers are less common in the market, making them harder to source.
Space Consumption: The doors require more space to open fully, which can be a limitation in confined or crowded areas, reducing operational flexibility.
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft | 40HQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.9m / 19.4ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.8ft | 2.4m / 7.9ft | 2.34m / 7.8ft |
| Inner height | 2.39m / 7.9ft | 2.39m / 7.9ft | 2.69m / 8.9ft |
| Dead weight | 2,300kg / 5,071.5 lbs | 3,750kg / 8,268.8 lbs | 5,200kg / 11,470lbs |
| Load | 25,000 kg / 55,126.9 lbs | 27,600kg / 61,200 lbs | 28,600kg / 63,052 lbs |
| Volume | 33.2 m3Â / 1,172 cu ft | 67.7 m3Â / 2,389 cu ft | 76.3m3 / 2,694 cu ft |
Open Top Container
Purpose
Open top containers have an open top that is protected by a removable tarpaulin cover. They are often used when the load is too bulky to fit into standard containers, for instance, equipment or other large substances that have to be lowered in from above through a crane.
These containers have more space than normal ones due to their open top design. They also have lashing rings for stability of the cargo when in transit. An open top container may measure 40ft and has a maximum gross weight of 26,500 kg.
Advantages
Flexibility: Open Top containers provide flexible loading and unloading, allowing you to use cranes, forklifts or other lifting equipment without worrying about height or width limits.
Sturdy Floor: Most open-top containers feature hardwood or plywood flooring with internal securing points, which help prevent unwanted movement during transport.Â
Disadvantages
Costs and Availability: Open-top containers are expensive and less available due to lower demand and higher maintenance needs. Expect increased freight rates, surcharges, or deposits to secure one
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft | 40HQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.9m / 19.4ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.8ft | 2.4m / 7.9ft | 2.34m / 7.8ft |
| Inner height | 2.39m / 7.9ft | 2.39m / 7.9ft | 2.69m / 8.9ft |
| Dead weight | 2,300kg / 5,071.5 lbs | 3,750kg / 8,268.8 lbs | 5,200kg / 11,470lbs |
| Load | 25,000 kg / 55,126.9 lbs | 27,600kg / 61,200 lbs | 28,600kg / 63,052 lbs |
| Volume | 33.2 m3Â / 1,172 cu ft | 67.7 m3Â / 2,389 cu ft | 76.3m3 / 2,694 cu ft |
Pallet-Wide Container
Purpose
A pallet-wide container is designed to efficiently fit Euro pallets, which are a standard size in European logistics. A typical 20ft dry container holds 11 Euro pallets, but a 20ft pallet-wide container can carry as many as 15. The extra capacity is due to the container being approximately 5 centimeters wider inside compared to a standard container.
This additional width makes pallet-wide containers an ideal solution for businesses looking to optimize space and reduce shipping expenses.
Advantages
Wooden Flooring: The pallet-wide container features wooden flooring, which provides high friction. This ensures stability and prevents pallets from sliding or shifting during transit.
Space Utilisation:Pallet Wide containers are wider than standard ISO containers, allowing pallets to be stacked side by side.Â
Disadvantages
Limited Space Flexibility: Pallet-wide containers are specifically designed to accommodate standard pallet sizes, which may limit the flexibility in handling non-standard cargo.
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft | 40HQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.89m / 19.32ft | 12.03m / 39.46ft | 12.03m / 39.46ft |
| Inner width | 2.44m / 8ft | 2.44m / 8ft | 2.41m / 7.9 ft |
| Inner height | 2.39m / 7.84ft | 2.38m / 7.80ft | 2.69m / 8.85ft |
| Dead weight | 2,400kg / 5,291.09 lbs | 3,800kg / 8,377.56 lbs | 4,280kg / 9,435.7lbs |
| Load | 28,080 kg / 61,905.80 lbs | 26,680kg / 58,819.33 lbs | 29,720kg / 65,521.38 lbs |
| Volume | 34.34 m3Â / 1,213 cu ft | 69.86 m3Â / 2,467.12 cu ft | 86.2m3 / 3,044.12 cu ft |
Flat Rack Container
Purpose
Flat rack containers have walls on their short ends and they are most suitable for shipping large, odd sized products that have to be loaded on top or sides. Such containers are normally used to transport pipes, poles, and other large equipment.
Flat rack containers have strong corner posts and frames to support heavy loads and remain stable during transportation. Their primary strength is the ability to transport almost any type and size of load as long as the weight is within the permissible limit.
Advantages
Easy loading and unloading: The ease of loading a container affects transport efficiency. Unlike standard containers, flat rack containers lack side and top plates, allowing side loading and unloading.
Higher Weight Capacity: Flat rack containers are made from advanced steel, offering 2.3 times the strength of standard steel.Â
Disadvantages
Protecting Cargo: Flat Rack containers have open sides and tops, so cargo needs to be covered with a waterproof tarpaulin to prevent water damage.Â
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft |
|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.94m / 19ft | 12.13m / 39.8ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.7ft | 2.40m / 7.9ft |
| Inner height | 2.35m / 7.7ft | 2.14m / 7ft |
| Dead weight | 2,360kg / 5203.8 lbs | 5,000kg / 11,025 lbs |
| Load | 30,140 kg / 66,458.7 lbs | 40,000kg / 88,200 lbs |
| Volume | 32.7 m3Â / 1,154.3 cu ft | 62.2 m3Â / 2,195.7 cu ft |
Side Door Container
Purpose
A side door container, also referred to as an ‘open side’, features additional doors along its long side. This design is specifically for bulky items that can’t fit through the standard end doors.
The side doors provide full access to the container’s length. Using side door containers, loading and unloading become faster and more efficient as more workers can manage the cargo simultaneously.
Advantages
Efficient Loading and Unloading: Loading and unloading becomes easy especially by the use of forklifts or pallet trucks.
Item Access: Side-opening containers enable you to retrieve the goods easily, no matter how they are placed.Â
Versatility: With side doors, the container can be subdivided, thus expanding how it can be used or operated.Â
Disadvantages
Less protection for the items: Open side storage containers can handle harsh weather, but the items inside may not. To prevent damage from wind or water leaks, especially for fragile or valuable items, additional protection and careful packaging are needed.Â
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft | 40HQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.9m / 19.4ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft | 12.03 m / 39.5 ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.7ft | 2.28m / 7.4ft | 2.34 m / 7.8 ft |
| Inner height | 2.34m / 7.7ft | 2.29m / 7.5ft | 2.5 m / 8.1 ft |
| Dead weight | 2,700 kg / 5,950 lbs | 4,700 kg / 10,362 lbs | 5,200 kg / 11,470 lbs |
| Load | 27,780 kg /Â Â 61,244 lbs | 27,300 kg / 60,180 lbs | 28,600 kg / 63,052 lbs |
| Volume | 33.0 m3Â / 1,165 cu ft | 64 m3Â / 2,2306 cu ft | 76.3 m3Â / 2,694 ft3 |
Hard Top Container
Purpose
A hard top container is similar to an open-top container but it has a detachable steel cover rather than a tarpaulin cover. The roof is made of steel and has lifting points so that a forklift can easily take the roof off, thus making loading and unloading easy.
These containers are used for the transportation of some products like marble, glass sheets, raw materials including coal and major machineries.Â
These containers are used for the transportation of some products like marble, glass sheets, raw materials including coal and major machineries.Â
Advantages
Perfect for Fragile Items: The removable roof facilitates careful top-loading of delicate goods, minimizing damage risk. Secure locks safeguard against theft and unauthorized access.
Streamlined Loading and Access: Hardtop containers provide easy top-loading access, eliminating the need for side or rear doors.
Efficient Stacking for Space Optimization: Containers can be stacked to maximize space in shipping yards, ports, or storage facilities, enhancing logistical efficiency.
Disadvantages
Higher Costs:Due to their solid construction, hard top containers often cost more than standard containers or those with removable tops.
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft | 40HQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.89m / 19.4ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft | 12.03m / 39.5ft |
| Inner width | 2.35m / 7.8ft | 2.4m / 7.9ft | 2.4m / 7.9ft |
| Inner height | 2.35m / 7.8ft | 2.34m / 7.8ft | 2.69 m / 8.9 ft |
| Dead weight | 2,260kg / 5,982 lbs | 3,980kg / 8,774 lbs | 5,200 kg / 11,470 lbs |
| Load | 28,220 kg / 62,214 lbs | 26,500kg / 58,422 lbs | 28,600 kg / 63,052 lbs |
| Volume | 32.7 m3Â / 1,155 cu ft | 66.7 m3Â / 2,356 cu ft | 76.3 m3Â / 2,694 ft3 |
Tank Container
Purpose
Tank containers, commonly known as ISO tanks or tankers. ISO tank containers are designed to safely transport hazardous gases and liquids. They are built with robust materials and include pressure relief systems and safety valves to prevent spills and accidents during transit.Â
Every tank container must pass a comprehensive inspection before being cleared for use. Strict adherence to ISO standards for size, durability, and strength is required, ensuring that these containers can safely carry their loads during transit.
Advantages
Environmental Benefits: ISO tank containers are environmentally friendly with their sealed structure and therefore there is little chance of leakage and emission.Â
Cost Efficiency: ISO tank containers are cheaper as compared to drums and tanker trucks. Â
Disadvantages
Limited Versatility: Tank containers are more specific to liquid/gas products and may not be very effective in transporting other goods.
Risk of Contamination: Failure to clean or maintain tank containers adequately is likely to result in contamination of subsequent loads.
| Volume | gross weight | Empty weight | Effective load | Maximum load temperature | test pressure | Work Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21,000| | 36,000kg | 3,650kg | 32,350kg | 120°C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
| 24,000| | 36,000kg | 3,900kg | 32,100kg | 120°C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
| 25,000| | 36,000kg | 3,730kg | 32,270kg | 120°C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
| 26,000| | 36,000kg | 4,060kg | 31,940kg | 120°C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
Insulated Container
Purpose
Insulated containers are designed to keep the inside temperature stable, no matter what the outside temperature is. They are perfect for transporting items that need to stay at a certain temperature.
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These containers usually have double walls with a vacuum between them to stop heat from moving in or out. The inside is also completely sealed to prevent condensation and contamination. Reefers can control the temperature inside, while insulated containers only keep the initial temperature stable.
Advantages
Energy Efficiency: Insulated containers reduce the need of extra heating or cooling that is required, saving energy.
Shield against external Temperature change: The insulation layer acts like a Heat Barrier, which prevents heat exchange.
Disadvantages
Difficulty in Cleaning: Cleaning of insulated containers is slightly more complicated because of the insulation material that may soak the liquids and take the odors.
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft |
|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.75m/18.10ft | 11.561m/37.11ft |
| Inner width | 2.26m/5.7ft | 2.28 m/7.6ft |
| Inner height | 2.11m/6.11ft | 2.249m/7.5 ft |
| Dead weight | 2650 kgs/ 5840lbs | 4800 kgs/ 10580lbs |
| Load | 21350 kgs/ 47070lbs | 27700 kgs/ 61070lbs |
| Volume | 970cu ft | 2090cu ft |
Reefer Container
Purpose
Reefer containers are huge mobile fridges. These containers are for the cargo that needs to be kept at a required temperature. For instance, perishable goods that require to be kept cool or frozen like fruits, meats, ice cream, and medicines.
Reefers can regulate temperature within a range of 30 degrees centigrade and minus 30 degrees centigrade. Inside the container, there are separate sections for cooling and freezing each of which can be set to different temperatures.Â
Advantages
Preserving Freshness: Through the use of reefers, fresh food products are transported at long distances thus enabling the global availability of foods.
Versatility:Â Ideal for most products, especially food items such as fruits and vegetables, frozen products, and temperature-sensitive chemicals.
Disadvantages
High Cost: Reefer containers are much more expensive than standard containers due to their specialized cooling equipment.Â
Energy Consumption: It takes a lot of energy to maintain the right temperature during transportation, which can contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 20ft | 40ft | 40HQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inner length | 5.44m / 17.9ft | 11.56m / 37.9ft | 11.56 m/ 37.9ft |
| Inner width | 2.29m / 7.5ft | 2.28m / 7.5ft | 2.29m / 7.5ft |
| Inner height | 2.27m / 7.5ft | 2.25m / 7.4ft | 2.55m / 8.36ft |
| Dead weight | 3,080kg / 6,791.4 lbs | 4,800kg / 10,584 lbs | 4,480kg / 9,880lbs |
| Load | 27,400 kg / 60,471 lbs | 27,700 kg / 61,078 lbs | 29,520kg / 65,080 lbs |
| Volume | 28.3m3 / 999 cu ft | 59.3 m3Â / 2,093.3 cu ft | 67.3 m3Â / 2,380 cu ft |
Differences Between Various Types of Containers
Containers vary widely in their uses. Some are easily identifiable, while others may look similar. We’ll break down the differences to make it easier for you to understand.Â
Flat Rack Container and Open Top Container
| Flat Rack Container | Open Top Container |
|---|---|
| No sides or top; open platform | Sides but no top; open to the sky |
| Suitable for large, heavy, or oddly shaped cargo | Ideal for tall or bulky items that need to be loaded from above |
| Load from the sides and ends | Load from the top or sides |
| Minimal protection from elements | Provides protection from sides but open at the top |
| More flexible for oversized loads | Allows for easy top loading and unloading |
Insulated Container and Reefer Container
Both Insulated Containers and Reefer Containers can be used to transport temperature-sensitive goods. However, their cooling systems have subtle differences.
The table below lists the specific differences between the two types of containers.
| Reefer Container | Insulated container |
|---|---|
| Precise temperature control inside the box | Only maintain the initial temperature |
| -30℃-30℃ any temperature constant temperature storage | Only maintain the initial temperature |
| Refrigerate, freeze or keep constant temperature of goods during long-distance transportation | Protect the interior from external influences |
Container Specifications and Sizes: FAQs
Q: How does the use of collapsible flat racks compare to the use of fixed flat racks?
A: Some flat racks can be folded when not in use, this makes them easy to store and transport hence cutting down the expenses. Fixed flat racks, on the other hand, provide more structural support and are used for heavy or valuable cargo that needs more support.
Q: Is there any restriction on the kind of pallets that may be used with pallet-wide containers?
A: Â Pallet-wide containers are made to fit standard pallet sizes; however, deviations in pallet size or arrangement can impact compatibility.
Q: What are the basic categories of containers?
A:Maritime containers are generally classified into two types, namely general purpose containers and special containers. General purpose containers include dry cargo containers, 20ft and 40 ft, and high cube containers, 40ft. Special containers are refrigerated containers, extra-wide containers, open top containers, flat rack containers, etc.
