Containers are large transport boxes, usually made of metal, of standard size and structure, used for the transportation of goods in international trade. Widely used in sea, land and rail transportation, these containers form the backbone of global trade.
Container Dimensions
Containers are usually classified according to their length. The most commonly used container sizes are:
Standard Container Dimensions
- 20′ Standard (6.10m x 2.44m x 2.59m): The most commonly used container type, usually suitable for general cargo.
- 40′ Standard (12.2m x 2.44m x 2.59m): Ideal for larger volumes of cargo, especially preferred for long distance sea transportation.
- 40′ High Cube (12.2m x 2.44m x 2.89m): Higher than the standard container and used for bulky materials.
- 45′ High Cube (13.7m x 2.44m x 2.89m): One of the largest standard containers and suitable for loads requiring extra volume.
Special Container Sizes
- 20′ Open Top (6.10m x 2.44m x 2.59m): This open top model is designed for easy loading and unloading of high or bulky goods.
- 40′ Open Top (12.2m x 2.44m x 2.59m): Suitable for longer volume loads, allows crane loading.
- 20′ Flat Rack (6.10m x 2.44m x 2.23m): Without side panels and roof, this type is suitable for large and heavy loads.
- 40′ Flat Rack (12.2m x 2.44m x 2.23m): Ideal for heavy loads such as large machinery, especially used in heavy industrial transportation.
- 20′ Reefer (6.10m x 2.44m x 2.59m): This container with refrigeration unit is designed for the transportation of products requiring cold chain.
- 40′ Reefer (12.2m x 2.44m x 2.59m): Used for storing food and other perishable products during long sea transportation.
Ultra Special Sizes and Varieties
- 53′ (16.15m x 2.69m x 2.89m): Common in North American domestic transportation, this size offers extra length and width.
- 48′ High Cube (14.6m x 2.44m x 2.89m): Typically used within the Americas, this size provides more volume than the standard.
Container Types
Containers differ according to the type of goods to be transported. Some common types of containers are:
- Dry Van Container:
- Description: Also known as a dry bulk container, it is the most widely used container type.
- Usage: Generally used for the transportation of dry goods, boxed or palletized products.
- Reefer Container (Refrigerated Container):
- Description: Designed for loads requiring temperature control.
- Usage: Used for transportation of perishable products such as food, medicine.
- Open Top Container:
- Description: Open top container, suitable for high or bulky loads.
- Usage: Preferred for easy loading of machinery and large parts.
- Flat Rack Container:
- Description: A type of container with open and removable sides.
- Usage: For loads such as construction materials and heavy machinery that will not fit in standard containers.
- Tank Container
- Description: Designed for the transportation of fluid materials such as liquids or gases.
- Usage: Used for transportation of chemicals, food products and fuels.
Containers are indispensable tools for the efficient conduct of international trade. With their different sizes and types, they enable the safe, fast and efficient transportation of all kinds of goods. Therefore, choosing the right container plays a critical role in the success of logistics and transportation processes.
