Essential for maintaining precise temperature control during the transportation of perishable and temperature-sensitive cargo, ensuring the preservation of goods and compliance with safety regulations.
Further special containers
Platform container
2 sizes (in feet): 20′ / 40′
To accommodate cargo that cannot fit into standard containers due to its size, shape, or weight.
Suitable for carrying oversized machinery, equipment, vehicles, construction materials, and other irregularly shaped items.
Ventilated container
1 size (in feet): 20′
To address moisture control, temperature regulation, and cargo preservation.
Valuable for goods that are sensitive to moisture, such as agricultural products like grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Hardtop container
3 sizes (in feet): 20′ / 40′ / 40′ High Cube
Hardtop containers are versatile cargo transport solutions designed to accommodate oversized or uniquely shaped goods, protect cargo from the elements, and ensure secure transportation
Suitable for transporting oversized or oddly shaped goods, such as machinery, industrial equipment, or large project cargo.
Insulated container
2 sizes (in feet): 20′ or 40′
To control and maintain specific temperature ranges for the cargo they carry.
Commonly used for transporting perishable goods, such as fresh produce, dairy products, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.
Flexi Tank container
1 size (in feet): 20′
To facilitate the efficient transportation of non-hazardous liquids in bulk.
This efficiency is particularly valuable for industries that need to move large quantities of liquid products, such as the food and beverage industry and the chemical sector.
What’s in the container?
Consumer Goods
Food Products
Machinery and Equipment
Automobiles
Chemicals
Textiles and Apparel
Electronics
Furniture
Manufactured Goods
Industrial Products
Agricultural Products
Waste and Recycling Materials
Medical Supplies and Pharmaceuticals
Consumer Electronics
Toys and Recreational Equipment
Art and Antiques
Energy Products
Standard Container Information
Size: Standard containers typically come in two sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet. The 20-foot container is often referred to as a TEU (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit), and the 40-foot container is called an FEU (Forty-Foot Equivalent Unit).
Construction: These containers are typically made of high-strength corrosion-resistant steel. They have solid walls, a roof, and a set of double doors at one end for easy loading and unloading.
Purpose: Standard containers are designed for transporting a wide range of dry goods that do not require temperature control or specialized handling. This includes items such as electronics, textiles, machinery, furniture, and most non-perishable products.
Dimensions:
20-foot Standard Container: Approximately 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8.5 feet in height. The internal dimensions are slightly smaller due to the container’s wall thickness.
40-foot Standard Container: Approximately 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8.5 feet in height. Similarly, the internal dimensions are slightly smaller.
Capacity: Standard 20-foot containers can typically hold around 10 to 11 standard pallets, while 40-foot containers can hold around 21 to 24 standard pallets, depending on the exact dimensions of the cargo.
Versatility: Standard containers are highly versatile and can be used for various types of cargo. They are compatible with various modes of transportation, including ships, trucks, and trains, making them ideal for intermodal transport.
Security: These containers are designed to protect cargo from the elements, theft, and tampering. They come equipped with robust locking mechanisms and are sealed to maintain cargo integrity.
Handling: Standard containers can be easily loaded and unloaded using standard container handling equipment, such as container cranes at ports or forklifts at distribution centers.
Global Standard: Standard containers adhere to international standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), making them compatible and interchangeable across the globe.
FAQs
What is an ocean freight container?
An ocean freight container, commonly known as a shipping container, is a standardized metal box used for transporting goods across the seas. They come in various sizes but are typically 20 or 40 feet long and are designed to be compatible with different modes of transportation.
What are the standard sizes of ocean freight containers?
The most common sizes are 20 feet (TEU) and 40 feet (FEU). However, there are also smaller and larger containers, including 10-foot and 45-foot containers, available for specific cargo needs.
How do I choose the right container for my cargo?
The choice of container depends on the type, size, and nature of your cargo. Standard dry containers are suitable for most goods, but specialized containers like refrigerated (reefer) containers, flat racks, and open-top containers are available for specific cargo requirements.
How do I ensure the security of my cargo in a container?
Ocean containers come with secure locking mechanisms, but it’s advisable to use additional security measures like seals and tamper-evident devices. Insurance for your cargo is also recommended.
Can I use my own container for international shipping?
Yes, you can use your own container, which is often referred to as “shipper-owned containers” (SOC). However, many shippers prefer to use containers provided by shipping lines due to their standardized and approved condition.
What are the weight restrictions for ocean containers?
Weight limits for ocean containers vary depending on the container’s size and type. Standard 20-foot containers can generally hold up to 24,000 pounds (10,886 kg), while 40-foot containers can handle around 44,000 pounds (19,958 kg). Always check with your shipping provider for specific weight limits.
How are refrigerated (reefer) containers used?
Reefer containers are equipped with temperature-control systems and are used to transport temperature-sensitive cargo like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. They maintain a specified temperature range throughout the journey.
What is the process for loading and unloading cargo from containers?
Cargo is loaded into containers at the shipper’s location, secured to prevent shifting during transit. At the destination, containers are typically unloaded at a container terminal or port facility using specialized equipment.
Can I track the location of my container during transit?
Many shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the location and status of your container throughout its journey using container numbers and tracking codes.
What are demurrage and detention charges related to containers?
Demurrage refers to charges incurred for keeping a container at the port or terminal beyond the allowed free time. Detention charges occur when a container is held by the shipper or consignee for an extended period. These charges are meant to incentivize prompt container return.
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