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

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

Did you know that 90% of goods across the world get transported by sea, with the average size of containers doubling in the past 20 years?

These days, containers have transcended the shipping industry and become a staple for homeowners and business people across the country. That’s because they make excellent storage areas and can be refurbished into living and business premises.

If you’re looking to get a container for whatever reason, it’s important to understand the different types of shipping containers that exist today. That way, you can find one that’s within your budget and that suits your needs.

In today’s post, we’ll be looking at the different types of shipping containers available today. This should make picking the best shipping containers for your needs a cakewalk.

Dry Storage Containers

Dry storage containers are the most common type of storage container in the country. As the name suggests, these containers are for storing and transporting dry goods that aren’t perishable. They come in 20 ft, 40ft, and 10 ft sizes with the ISO standardizing their sizes.

Flat Rack Containers

Just like dry storage containers, flat rack containers also store dry goods. However, unlike dry storage containers, flat rack containers have collapsible sides, along their lengths. This allows them to carry goods and equipment that are a little wider.

They’re ideal for carrying vehicles and heavy construction materials. Some of the larger variants can carry up to 45 tons of cargo at one go.

Double Door Containers

Double door containers or tunnel containers are containers that have doors on both ends. This makes it much easier to load the container since you can use both ends to load and unload it. They are much wider and can accommodate larger and longer equipment like copper and iron bars.

Open Top Containers

As the name implies open-top containers are containers that have an open top. This allows loading from the top using cranes. They’re great for tall machinery and bulk products that only cranes can move.

These containers are available in 20 and 40 feet sizes. And also have lashing rings on the upper and lower rails. This helps to secure cargo and keep them in place throughout the journey.

Half Height Containers

Half-height containers are short and wide, hence having a lower center of gravity. They’re a staple for the mining industry for transporting stones and coal. The design allows the container to withstand rugged conditions and also carry dense and heavy loads.

Swap Body Containers

These containers are common in Europe although also available in the US. They’re used in the logistic industry mainly for road and rail transportation. This is because you can’t stack one swap body container on top of another.

These containers don’t have fittings on their upper corners. This makes the top removable and increases versatility with the types of cargo they carry.

High Cube Containers

High cube containers have the same length as standard dry storage containers, measuring 40 or 45 feet long. However, they’re taller by about a foot or so to accommodate more goods.

You’ll find a type of recess floor on the front end of the container, known as a goose-neck chassis. This lets the floor lie lower, increasing the container’s height.

ISO Reefer Containers

ISO reefer containers or just reefer containers are special containers for moving perishable goods that require low temperatures. These goods include meat, vegetables, fruits, and the likes. They mostly come in 40 and 20 feet sizes.

To keep the cargo cool, these containers connect to an external power source. The containers are made from a special type of weather steel known as cor-ten steel. This steel forms a dark oxide coating that protects the containers against ice, humidity, and rain.

Insulated Containers

Like reefer containers, insulated containers transport temperature-sensitive cargo like fruits and the likes. They also consist of a temperature-regulating mechanism known as a compressor that prevents internal temperatures from exceeding a certain amount. The casing of insulated containers contains a vacuum to prevent any heat loss or gain.

ISO Tank Containers

ISO tank containers are also known as tankers. They’re made from a strong type of steel that’s resistant to corrosion. These containers transport liquid cargo that sometimes consists of highly corrosive chemicals.

The containers have to keep their cargo capacity between 80% to 95% full. It shouldn’t be less than 80% to prevent any liquid surge, but should also be below 95% to allow room for expansion.

How to Pick the Right Shipping Container for Your Needs

Are you in the market for a shipping container? If you are, here are a few tips to help you find the right one.

Define the Purpose

First things first, you need to decide what you need the container for. You have to choose whether you want it for storage, business, or living. Doing so will help you narrow down your options to containers that meet your needs.

Pick the Perfect Size

Next, you’ll have to pick a container size that will fit all your items. Look at both length and height, but remember, the larger a container is, the more expensive it’s likely to be.

Consider Delivery

While shopping for a container, you need to ask yourself how will the container get to you? You’ll have to find a reputable shipping container transport service to get the container to your destination.

Inspect the Container Diligently

Before buying the container, ensure you inspect it from head to toe. Check for any signs of rust, large dents, and wear and tear. A container that’s too worn may not serve you well. At least make sure the container you’re buying is wind and vermin proof.

Different Types of Shipping Containers Made Easy

Now that you’re familiar with the different types of shipping containers, picking one should be a breeze. Don’t forget to arrange transport logistics for your shipping containers. Also, make sure you get proper container dimensions so the container fits all your items.

For more informative content, check out the other posts on the site.