Shipping Container Types

In the world of international trade, it's all about the journey from point A to point B. That journey requires the logistical organization of a range of elements to make sure the safe arrival of products during the importing process. And at the center of it all, lies the standard shipping container.

These container units protect their contents during the journey from one port of entry to a different one. To accommodate the various sorts of products shipped and therefore the special care they'll need, there are a variety of various shipping container types that vary in size, material, structure, and construction.

The 14 commonest Shipping Container Types

1. Dry Containers

Dry Containers are available in sizes of 10, 20, and 40 feet. They re used to transport general cargo and are the foremost commonly used sort of shipping container.

2. Flat Rack Containers

Flat rack containers have sides that will be folded right down to accommodate heavy loads, over-sized cargo, construction equipment, building supplies, or heavy machinery. 

5. Side Open Storage Container

Side open storage containers open on the side (as against the ends) to facilitate specific loading and unloading needs.  

6. Refrigerated ISO Containers

Refrigerated ISO Containers (also called reefer containers) regulate the temperature to preserve temperature-sensitive goods like produce or seafood. However, remember that if you're shipping temperature-sensitive items, spoilage will only be covered if there was a mechanical failure of the reefer container for an extended period of your time.  

7. Insulated or Thermal Containers

Insulated or thermal containers accompany a regulated temperature control which allows them to face up to a better temperature. They’re best suited for long-distance transportation of products. 

8. Tanks

Tanks are the container type used for the transportation of liquid materials and are employed by an enormous proportion of the shipping industry. These container types are mostly made from anti-corrosive materials, like strong steel, which gives them a long life and protects the materials being transported.

9. Cargo Storage Roll Containers

Cargo storage roll containers are specialized containers made for the aim of transporting sets or stacks of materials. They're made from thick, strong mesh along rollers, which permit them to maneuver easily, and therefore the entire container is foldable

10. Half Height Containers

These containers are half the peak of a full-sized dry container and that they are made mostly of steel. They’re primarily used for goods like coal, stones, etc. which require easy loading and unloading. Since these containers are half-sized they assist to keep the load per container at an inexpensive amount.

11. Car Carriers

Car carriers are special container storage units made for the shipment of cars over long distances. To assist a car fit snugly inside the containers without risking damage, they are available with collapsible sides.          

12.Drums

Drums are circular shipping containers that are best suited for the bulk transport of liquid materials. They're made up of a choice of materials like steel, lightweight metals, fiber, hard plastic, etc. Although they're smaller in size, they'll need extra space thanks to their non-modular shape.  

13.Special Purpose Containers

These are container unit’s custom made for specialized purposes and are mostly used for high-profile services, like the shipment of weapons. Their construction and material composition depend on the special purpose they have to cater to.  

14. Swap Bodies

Swap Bodies are a special quiet container mostly utilized in Europe. These containers aren't made consistent with the ISO standards since they're not standardized shipping containers. However, they're given a robust bottom and a convertible top which makes them extremely useful for shipping many products                     

Sources:

1. https://www.marineinsight.com/know-more/16-types-of-container-units-and-designs-for-shipping-cargo/

2. https://www.trackingdocket.com/15-types-of-container-units-for-shipping/

3. https://www.tigercontainers.com/blog/different-types-of-shipping-containers/