What Are the Different Types of Shipping Containers That Exist Today?

Are you looking for the best container size to use for shipping? If so, you must be sure to research all types of containers.

The ability to transport goods from one country or continent to another is often overlooked as an aspect of economic trade. That’s alright because plenty of people and businesses are happy to provide storage services for export and import.

This article will give a complete overview of different types of shipping containers. Read further to find out more!

Table of Contents

Dry Freight Containers

Dry freight containers are the most common container used to ship cargo that does not need to cool or freeze. They come in various sizes, ranging from shorter pallet-wide containers to larger high-cube containers.

The two most used types are 20-foot and 40-foot containers, and they can be either open-top or closed-top, meaning they can load and unloaded from the top or sides.

Closed-top containers protect their contents better than open-top containers as they are more secure and watertight. Extended-length containers are also available, giving extra capacity when needed.

Dry freight containers can be further divided into flat rack boxes, used when shipping cargo over-lengths, and bulk containers, which carry large or heavy items.

You can also get a drayage quote to have an idea and to ensure that you will be working with the right team!

Refrigerated Containers

Refrigerated containers are some of the most popular shipping containers that exist today. These containers have walls and insulation designed to keep the contents cool, fresh, and undamaged during transit.

They are from solid and durable materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, which protect them from corrosion and other hazards. Refrigerated containers usually come in 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot lengths, with width and height depending on the contents shipped.

Refrigerated containers can have either fixed temperature or adjustable temperature controls, allowing them to customize according to the needs of each shipment.

Refrigerated containers are an excellent way to ship food, medicines, and other temperature-sensitive goods, ensuring that everything arrives at its destination in top condition.

Tank Containers

Tank containers are shipping containers designed for the transportation of liquids. They need after due to their superior safety features and ability to transport hazardous and non-hazardous fluids.

Generally, tank containers are cylindrical with a steel frame and rate for a most working pressure of 1.8 bar. The most popular types of tank containers include liquid tanks, cryogenic tanks, insulated and heating tanks, food-grade tanks, anti-corrosion, and anti-static tanks, and waste tanks.

These containers remain safe and secure even during transport over long distances via various modes of transport, such as trucks, ships, and rail. Tank containers can also meet global loading and unloading requirements, making them ideal for international transportation.

Flexitank Containers

Several different types of shipping containers exist today. Flexitank containers are a type of bulk container that is often used for liquids and semi-solids.

They are from a flexible plastic material and are stored in large framed containers. They provide a flexible and cheap means of moving large quantities of liquids and semi-solids for export worldwide without needing to construct large tanks.

Flexitank containers transport food, chemicals, fuels, and other products. They offer several benefits, including low cost, ease of transport, and low emissions levels. Flexitank containers are now a reliable, robust, and cost-effective solution for transporting large volumes of liquids and semi-solids worldwide.

Open-Top Containers

Open-top containers are one of the best shipping containers in today’s market. Since they are made from metal, they withstand the harshness of outdoor elements and many transportation methods.

They come in a variety of sizes, as well as depths, and offer the most space for shipping and storage. They have a big entry point for easy loading and unloading, making them ideal for many transportation options.

They have slots for heavy-duty equipment for hauling and moving large items, such as machinery and oversized pallets. Open-top containers are often used in airports, seaports, and open ports and are ideal when long-term storage is not needed.

They are also beneficial for having quick access to items during transit. This type of container offers durability and convenience while also being inexpensive.

Flat Racks

Flat racks are shipping containers used when traditional box containers are unsuitable due to the shape or size of a cargo item. Flat racks come in two general varieties: collapsible and fixed.

Collapsible flat racks fold onto themselves when not in use, making them ideal for shipping bulky items that need as little space as possible.

Fixed flat racks are more rigid, providing more durability for items you need to keep stationary. This container is ideal for oversized cargo, cars, logs, and machinery. Flat racks are most often used to transport items by the ocean, rail, or truck and consist of aluminum or steel.

Flat racks are an essential part of the shipping industry, providing a durable and secure way to transport goods when necessary.

High Cube

High cube shipping containers are a type of manufactured metal container used for the storage and transport of goods. High cubes measure 9 feet 6 inches, making them a foot taller than standard containers.

This makes them ideal for storing or transporting taller items, such as electronic and machinery products, furniture, or apparel items. High cubes offer an interior volume of 1,165 cu ft, making them an efficient choice for transporting large quantities of goods.

The double doors at the end of the container allow for easy access for loading and unloading of goods. High cube containers also use thicker steel and reinforced stability corrugations on all four walls, providing an extra layer of protection from rough seas and outside elements.

These containers have different designs for different types of goods and applications, and knowing which best cargo container to use for each shipment is essential. High cube containers offer more height and capacity than standard containers.

The Different Types of Shipping Containers

The number of types of shipping containers that exist today is vast and varied. There are many options, from large insulated containers to smaller, standard-sized ones.

Nothing beats having the correct container to move your products and choosing the right one can make a significant difference. Contact a logistics professional today to learn more about selecting the correct shipping container for your product.

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