A Guide to Shipping Container Types and Dimensions

Jan 03, 2024

Did you know that almost 80% of the world's cargo is moved by ships? In order to transport such a large amount of goods, there are a great variety of freight shipping container types and dimensions to choose from. Understanding the different container types and dimensions can help you ship your cargo safely and effectively. 


Which container is the right container for your shipment?

There is a wide range of freight containers available for the transportation of your cargo. The specific type of cargo and its requirements will dictate the suitable container for your needs. Below, we have provided a list of the most frequently used sizes and types of cargo shipping containers:


1. Dry containers

Dry containers, also known as dry van containers or dry boxes, are the prevailing and widely used type of containers. Unlike other containers, they do not possess any temperature controls, making them ideal for transporting non-perishable goods like toys and clothing. These containers dominate the global market, accounting for 90% of sea freight shipments. Moreover, they are available in various dimensions and variants to cater to diverse shipping requirements.

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20-foot Container or 1 TEU: The standard 20-foot shipping container is one of the most commonly used containers for shipment of goods as ocean freight. They are designed to carry more weight than voluminous cargo. They are ideal for transporting weighty items like minerals, metal, machinery, cement, and steel coils.


40-foot Container or 1 FFE: Another widely used size is the 40-foot dry container which is designed to carry and store more voluminous cargo rather than heavy cargo. For example, furniture, paper packages, or cotton. 


40 High Cube Container (40HC): These shipping containers are made for even lighter cargo. 40HC shipping containers have taller dimensions, allowing for more cargo to be carried. However, it is important to note that these containers have weight limitations, making them unsuitable for heavy goods.


dry container type.png

Note:

Normally, the sea freight rate for 1x40GP is the same as 1x40HC.


On every container’s door, the container payload (Max. cargo that can be loaded into the container) is mentioned and this must be strictly respected.

The container tare (weight of the container empty) and the volume capacity in m3 are also mentioned on the container's door.

b22134b256f6854ce49cf964b097a2f.png


2. Reefer containers

These are cargo containers that can maintain a constant, carefully controlled temperature from -20°C to + 20°C. They are perfect for storage and for transporting perishable products such as fresh meat, and seafood that need to be kept cold across long distances. Refrigerated shipping containers are available in various sizes, including 20ft, 40ft, 40HC and 45HC.

9322442240377a51c116696e2c4067f.png


3. Special dimensioned shipping containers

These shipping containers have particular dimensions for specific cargo. They include:


Open Top Container: A shipping container with dimensions suitable for cargo that is over height and cannot be easily loaded through the door.

eb1e3dc10a98873cd3a5e8b450bd00d.png


Flat Rack: A cargo container ideal for shipping goods that are oversized, such as heavy machinery, yachts, and construction materials.


ef628877226caaceefddce40ffff451.png


Transportable Tank: Made of strong steel or other anti-corrosive materials for the storage, transportation, and long-life protection of liquid materials.

8c189febdd34ebb173ee6eeb572b57f.png


Let us choose the right container for your shipment

CombineGoodz is a leading freight forwarding company based in China, offering various freight services by sea, air, and land. We can assist you with all of your shipping needs, no matter where in the world you need to ship your goods from China. We are partnered with a wide range of shipping lines worldwide, so we can help you choose the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your shipment. Contact us today to get started.



Did you know that almost 80% of the world's cargo is moved by ships? In order to transport such a large amount of goods, there are a great variety of freight shipping container types and dimensions to choose from. Understanding the different container types and dimensions can help you ship your cargo safely and effectively. 


Which container is the right container for your shipment?

There is a wide range of freight containers available for the transportation of your cargo. The specific type of cargo and its requirements will dictate the suitable container for your needs. Below, we have provided a list of the most frequently used sizes and types of cargo shipping containers:


1. Dry containers

Dry containers, also known as dry van containers or dry boxes, are the prevailing and widely used type of containers. Unlike other containers, they do not possess any temperature controls, making them ideal for transporting non-perishable goods like toys and clothing. These containers dominate the global market, accounting for 90% of sea freight shipments. Moreover, they are available in various dimensions and variants to cater to diverse shipping requirements.

image.png

20-foot Container or 1 TEU: The standard 20-foot shipping container is one of the most commonly used containers for shipment of goods as ocean freight. They are designed to carry more weight than voluminous cargo. They are ideal for transporting weighty items like minerals, metal, machinery, cement, and steel coils.


40-foot Container or 1 FFE: Another widely used size is the 40-foot dry container which is designed to carry and store more voluminous cargo rather than heavy cargo. For example, furniture, paper packages, or cotton. 


40 High Cube Container (40HC): These shipping containers are made for even lighter cargo. 40HC shipping containers have taller dimensions, allowing for more cargo to be carried. However, it is important to note that these containers have weight limitations, making them unsuitable for heavy goods.


dry container type.png

Note:

Normally, the sea freight rate for 1x40GP is the same as 1x40HC.


On every container’s door, the container payload (Max. cargo that can be loaded into the container) is mentioned and this must be strictly respected.

The container tare (weight of the container empty) and the volume capacity in m3 are also mentioned on the container's door.

b22134b256f6854ce49cf964b097a2f.png


2. Reefer containers

These are cargo containers that can maintain a constant, carefully controlled temperature from -20°C to + 20°C. They are perfect for storage and for transporting perishable products such as fresh meat, and seafood that need to be kept cold across long distances. Refrigerated shipping containers are available in various sizes, including 20ft, 40ft, 40HC and 45HC.

9322442240377a51c116696e2c4067f.png


3. Special dimensioned shipping containers

These shipping containers have particular dimensions for specific cargo. They include:


Open Top Container: A shipping container with dimensions suitable for cargo that is over height and cannot be easily loaded through the door.

eb1e3dc10a98873cd3a5e8b450bd00d.png


Flat Rack: A cargo container ideal for shipping goods that are oversized, such as heavy machinery, yachts, and construction materials.


ef628877226caaceefddce40ffff451.png


Transportable Tank: Made of strong steel or other anti-corrosive materials for the storage, transportation, and long-life protection of liquid materials.

8c189febdd34ebb173ee6eeb572b57f.png


Let us choose the right container for your shipment

CombineGoodz is a leading freight forwarding company based in China, offering various freight services by sea, air, and land. We can assist you with all of your shipping needs, no matter where in the world you need to ship your goods from China. We are partnered with a wide range of shipping lines worldwide, so we can help you choose the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your shipment. Contact us today to get started.



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