Did you know that shipping containers were a great invention of the 20th century? The market for these types of shipping containers is valued at $9.5 billion in 2021 and growing.
In essence, these mobile, secure boxes represent the movement of ideas and goods across the planet. They have become the modern-day equivalent of the cargo ships of yore.
With so many shipping container types, finding the right one to fit your needs can seem tricky. What sort of shipping containers exist today? Let’s take a closer look today to find out!
Dry Storage Container
Dry storage containers are one type of shipping container that exists today. It’s great for shipping non-perishable items. It can be used for canned goods, paper products, and building materials.
Dry storage containers come in two sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet. The 20-foot containers can hold up to 24,000 lbs. The 40-foot container can take up to 32,000 lbs.
They come equipped with a four-way entry for easy loading and unloading. Additionally, modified containers with roll-up doors, forklift pockets, and other customization are available.
Flat Rack Container
A flat rack container is a lightweight steel container. It has collapsible sides and ends used for out-of-gauge and over-height shipments.
It is ideal for cargoes loaded from the top and sides, as the walls can be folded down on site. Some flat rack containers have twist locks to secure the sides and ends. They come in lengths of 20 and 40 feet and a width of up to 6.7 meters.
They are one of the best shipping containers with solid walls, side or end doors, or both. Flat Rack Containers have a flat deck and no roof, sides, or end walls.
It opens from the top and sides. That allows cargo to be loaded and unloaded from flatbed trucks and railcars.
It is one of the best cargo containers that are most affordable. They are great for transporting large, oversized cargo that wouldn’t usually fit inside a standard container.
Open Top Container
Open-top shipping containers are ideal for transporting many goods. It is also suitable for odd-shaped goods which are too large or won’t fit into a standard shipping container.
This type of container features a foldable or removable roof. It allows goods to be loaded from above by crane.
Open-top shipping containers come in two sizes. There are 20 feet and 40 feet open-top shipping containers.
They are usually made from weather-resistant materials such as aluminum or steel. These containers are affordable, durable, and versatile. It makes them a common choice for the transportation of goods worldwide.
Open Side Storage Container
Open Side Storage Containers are ideal for storing bulky items. It can also be used for long items such as lumber, pipes, and bales of cotton.
They are constructed with sliding doors. These doors open on one or both sides and usually have drop-down panels at the back.
These containers come in various sizes and have multiple uses. It isn’t limited to only the storage and transportation of goods.
Refrigerated ISO Container
Refrigerated ISO containers are one of the many shipping containers used for transporting goods today. These containers are insulated, weather-resistant, and designed to protect cargo from extreme temperatures.
They are used to transport products that must be kept cold or frozen. They are perfect for shipping fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, and pharmaceutical products.
Refrigerated ISO containers are 20 or 40 feet long. They contain powerful cooling units, standby power systems, and temperature-monitoring sensors.
The entire interior is refrigerated. It provides total thermal protection. It also has a temperature range between -20 degrees Celsius and +25 degrees Celsius, depending on the model.
Various methods, such as trains, ships, and trucks, can transport refrigerated ISO containers. They are well-suited for long-distance transportation. Their reliability makes them the preferred option for many shippers.
Half Height Containers
Half-height containers are excellent when maximum space efficiency is necessary. These containers are much shorter than standard containers, measuring only 4 feet in height compared to 8.5 feet for a standard container.
They are stackable, which is not possible with larger containers. Half-height containers are primarily used for smaller, lightweight items that must be either shipped in an enclosed container or that need to be secured in a specially designed one.
They are an attractive option for many companies because they are more accessible, faster, and cheaper to ship due to their smaller size. Examples of consumer items shipped in half-height containers are auto parts, consumer electronics, construction materials, and agricultural products.
Special Purpose Containers
Special purpose containers are non-standard containers that transport goods requiring exceptional protection or handling. These containers are generally purpose-built and come in various sizes and shapes. They transport chemicals, heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and oversized items.
Tunnel Container
The tunnel container is a type of shipping container that is quite versatile and can be used in many different scenarios. It has a larger capacity than most containers and is designed to pass through tunnels and tight spaces easily. It is also maneuverable and can be used on smooth and uneven surfaces.
Double Doors Container
Double-door shipping containers are a popular choice for those needing extra access to items. This type of container has two access points or doors on the end. The double doors offer two openings that let you store objects of varying heights and widths that would not fit in a regular container.
It’s an ideal solution for those needing to store various items. It is also suitable for ITG Transportation and customers who may not have the necessary space for a regular shipping container.
Understand The Different Types of Shipping Containers and Find The Right One That Suits You Best
Shipping containers come in various sizes and styles. It is vital to identify the correct type of container for the right load. For more information, contact an experienced logistics provider who can help you determine your shipping container needs.
The different types of shipping containers come in all shapes, sizes, and functions. With most of the world trade taking place through shipping containers, it’s worth taking some time to research and understand the different types of containers available today.
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