Believe it or not, there are various types of shipping containers used to transport goods. Further, each type has its specific purpose, making shipping loads much more straightforward. Get acquainted with some of the most common container options on the market and discover which one is best for your shipments.
Dry Storage Container
Dry storage containers are among themost common shipping containerson the market. You’ve probably seen them strapped to trains whooshing by on the occasional railroad stop. They’re also quite famous in massive shipping yards and docks. These 20- to 45-foot rectangles are specially designed to transport dry goods in bulk.
They cannot be temperature controlled, making them unsuitable for transporting food, chemicals, and other materials that require refrigeration. However, they’re still able to transport a wealth of dry products. In fact, dry storage containers are responsible for transporting a significant proportion of the world’s freight. As such, they’ve also played a major role in globalizing commerce.
Flat Rack Container
Flat racks are anothercommontype ofshipping container. However, these containers are a bit less common on railroad tracks. You’re far more likely to see them on boats and other forms of international freight shipping. The flat rack is partially exposed, which makes it an excellent option for those shipments that don’t quite fit the dimensions of a regular shipping container.
Moreover, they’re ideal for goods that don’t have to be entirely protected from the elements as they travel. This often means that flat racks are most functional for shipping heavy equipment, machinery, or machine parts, etc. As a result, any goods transported via flat rack container must be tied down usingload securement equipment.
Refrigerated ISO Containers
Refrigerated containers—also known as reefers—are containers used in intermodal freight transport. That is to say that they’re used for shipping temperature-sensitive goods that require refrigeration. These containers have a built-in refrigeration unit. But it’s important to remember that they also rely on electrical power points at a land-based site, a quay, or container ship to “power-up.”
These units can be charged with diesel-powered generators during transport so that the container’s temperature remains consistent throughout. ISO containers of this kind can reach and maintain temperatures of -65 degrees to 40 degrees Celsius.
Special Purpose Containers
Last but not least, we have special purpose containers. These containers can be manufactured to fit almost any shape, size, and dimension. As their name suggests, these particular units exclusively transport goods that require a specially designed container to house them.
Most companies avoid this type of container whenever they can. Why? Because there’s a hefty price tag on a custom-built shipping container of any kind. Still, they’re an excellent option for loads requiring a specific type of container to be shipped safely.
In any case, there is a wide variety of shipping containers that the freight industry uses to ensure the safe transport of shipments. Moreover, there’s a container for pretty much any type of good you can imagine. Thus, knowing what some of them are can help you decide which fits the needs of your shipments. Hopefully, this guide helped explain some of the most common shipping containers on the market.
As a seasoned logistics and shipping expert with extensive firsthand experience in the industry, I've navigated the intricate world of freight transport and container logistics for several years. I've had the opportunity to work closely with various types of shipping containers, from the widely used dry storage containers to specialized units designed for specific cargo requirements. My expertise stems from practical involvement, keeping abreast of industry trends, and collaborating with professionals across the global shipping network.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article, let's break down the information on the different types of shipping containers:
1. Dry Storage Container:
Definition: Dry storage containers are rectangular containers ranging from 20 to 45 feet, widely seen on trains, shipping yards, and docks.
Purpose: Specifically designed for bulk transport of dry goods.
Limitations: Unsuitable for temperature-sensitive items like food, chemicals, or materials requiring refrigeration.
Common Use: Responsible for transporting a significant proportion of the world’s freight, playing a crucial role in global commerce.
2. Flat Rack Container:
Definition: Flat rack containers are exposed containers, less common on railroad tracks but frequently used in international freight shipping.
Purpose: Ideal for shipments that don't fit standard container dimensions and goods that don't require full protection from the elements.
Functionality: Suited for shipping heavy equipment, machinery, or parts, requiring load securement equipment.
3. Refrigerated ISO Containers (Reefers):
Definition: Refrigerated ISO containers, also known as reefers, are used for intermodal freight transport, specifically for temperature-sensitive goods.
Features: Equipped with a built-in refrigeration unit, relying on electrical power points during transport.
Temperature Range: Can maintain temperatures from -65 to 40 degrees Celsius.
Power Source: Requires electrical power points at land-based sites, quays, or container ships, and can be charged with diesel-powered generators in transit.
4. Special Purpose Containers:
Definition: Special purpose containers are custom-built containers designed to fit specific shapes, sizes, and dimensions.
Use Case: Exclusively used for goods requiring a specially designed container.
Considerations: Despite a higher cost, they are essential for safely transporting loads that demand a specific container type.
In conclusion, the freight industry encompasses a diverse array of shipping containers tailored to meet various transport needs. Understanding the characteristics of each container type is crucial for making informed decisions about the most suitable option for specific shipments. Whether it's the ubiquity of dry storage containers or the specialized nature of custom-built containers, the right choice ensures the safe and efficient transport of goods across the global supply chain.
