9 Common Types Of Containers: Find The Right Fit For Your Cargo

Are you looking for the right container for your cargo?

Though various types of containers differ in size, shape, and cargo needs, some are more commonly used when shipping ocean freight.

How Many Types Of Containers Are There?

Today, there’s a wide variety of shipping containers – each designed for specific purposes and cargo needs. Some carriers claim there are more than ten different types of containers, while others mention 20+.

True, there are many different container types, varying in dimension, structure, materials, or specialized extras – reflecting the diverse requirements of the global shipping industry.

Today, due to the growth of e-commerce globalization, containerized shipping is rapidly rising and along with it, the shipping container market revenue is expected to grow at a steep CAGR rate of 11.6% from 2021 to 2028.

In this fast-moving environment, the comprehensive array of container options ensures that shippers find the right fit for their specific transportation needs.

What Are The Most Common Shipping Containers?

Some container types are more frequently used than others: dry containers, reefers, and flat rack containers are the most popular in international shipping.

In fact, the dry container type, also known as ‘general purpose’ container, is by far the most widely used.

So, let’s take a closer look at nine common types of shipping containers, their sizes, and typical use.

9 Shipping Container Types And Sizes

Here is an overview:

1. Dry Storage Containers (or Dry Containers)

Designed to transport non-temperature-sensitive goods, these are the most common types of shipping containers. They are fully enclosed, weatherproof, and have a rigid roof, sidewalls, and floor.

They are used worldwide to ship clothing, furniture, electronics, and other dry goods in FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less-Than-Container Load) shipments.

• Height: around 8’ 6”, though high cube versions are about 9’ 6”.
• Length: 20-foot, 40-foot, plus 40-foot high cube.
• Load capacity:
  • 20-foot: 1,172 CFT
  • 40-foot: 2,389.75 CFT
  • 40-foot high cube: 2,694 CFT

2. Refrigerated Containers (or Reefer)

These are temperature-controlled containers used for transporting perishable items. They are equipped with a refrigeration unit to maintain a specific temperature.

Reefers transport fresh and frozen foods, such as meats, fruits, vegetables, medicines, and pharmaceutical products.

• Height: Similar to standard containers, typically 8 feet 6 inches, but high cube options are available.
• Length: 20-foot, 40-foot
• Load capacity:
  • 20-foot: 1,172 CFT
  • 40-foot: 2,039.7 CFT

• Special characteristics: Require external power to maintain temperature, reaching as low as -60°C (-76°F).

3. Flat Rack Containers

These containers don’t have rigid walls or roofs. Instead, they bear collapsible sides, making a good choice for oversized cargo that cannot fit into any standard container size.

Shippers use them to move heavy machinery, construction materials, vehicles, and other odd-sized cargo.

• Height varies, depending on the load.
• Length: 20-foot, 40-foot
• Load capacity:
  • 20-foot: 1,154.3 CFT
  • 40-foot: 1,860 CFT
• Special characteristics: Cargo needs to be lashed to secure it, and special care is needed to prevent weather damage.

4. Tank Containers / ISO Tanks

These somehow different types of shipping containers transport liquids and gases in bulk. They are made of anti-corrosive materials.

They’re used for importing or exporting chemicals, oil, wine, and other liquids or gases.

• Height: About 8′ 6”
• Length: 20-foot
• Load capacity: 26,001 liters
• Special characteristics: These tanks must be at least 80% full to prevent dangerous liquid surging in transit. Due to thermal expansion, they cannot be over 95% full.

5. Open-Top Containers

These are similar to dry containers but have a removable top, making them ideal for over-height cargo, like tall machinery and other heavy or bulky items loaded by a crane.

• Height: Interior height is about 7′ 10 ¼”
• Length: 20-foot, 40-foot

• Load capacity:
  • 20-foot: 1,172 CFT
  • 40-foot: 2,389.75 CFT
• Special characteristics: These containers usually use a tarpaulin to protect the cargo from the weather.

6. Open Side Storage Containers

As their name suggests, these shipping containers have doors that can open completely on one side, providing wider access for loading and unloading extra-large items that can’t fit through regular doors.

Their height, length, and capacity are similar to standard containers.

7. Half-Height Containers

Designed for the transportation of dense and heavy bulk cargo, these containers are half the height of full-sized containers.

They are perfect for shipping coal, stones, and other heavy bulk materials.

• Height: Half the height of standard containers.
• Capacity: They can handle heavier loads than taller containers due to their low center of gravity.
• Special characteristics: Half-height containers are robust, made for rough industrial environments.

8. Insulated Containers

These special containers are similar to a thermos! Their regulated temperature control allows them to withstand high temperatures.

Carriers use them to ship products like foods, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals.

• Their height, length (20’ & 40’), and load capacity are similar to standard containers.
• Special characteristics: Insulated containers don’t have their own cooling system. Instead, they bear a mechanical compressor to cool or heat the air inside.

9. Special Purpose Containers

This is not a very common option, but it’s worth mentioning because shippers who deal with highly specialized cargo need specialized containers.

These custom-made containers can be made in nearly any shape or dimension, though they are a less common option.

It goes without saying that when shipping oddly-sized containers, standard freight forwarding costs and charges don’t apply. Instead, shippers ask for specialized quotes that are pretty costly.

Choose The Right Container And Freight Forwarder For Your Unique Shipping Needs

Rates can fluctuate dramatically among the different container options and cargo needs. No matter what, your cargo must go through a long journey over oceans and highways and arrive intact.

Especially for small and medium-sized businesses where every little drawback can significantly impact their profit margins, choosing a carrier needs careful planning and consideration.

At Ship4wd, we facilitate international shipping for SMBs looking for competitive rates and enhanced service quality. Whether by sea or air, we make sure your cargo arrives timely and safely. Visit our website to get a quote instantly!