Choosing the Right Container Type
Ocean freight containers come in specialized types for different cargo needs. Choosing the right one affects cost, handling, and cargo protection. Here's a complete guide to every container you'll encounter.
Standard Dry Containers
20ft Standard (20GP / 20DV)
- External: 20' x 8' x 8'6"
- Internal capacity: ~33.2 CBM
- Max payload: ~28,200 kg
- Best for: Heavy dense cargo, small volume shipments
40ft Standard (40GP / 40DV)
- External: 40' x 8' x 8'6"
- Internal capacity: ~67.7 CBM
- Max payload: ~26,700 kg
- Best for: General cargo, largest volume selection
40ft High Cube (40HC / 40HQ)
- External: 40' x 8' x 9'6" (extra foot height)
- Internal capacity: ~76.3 CBM
- Max payload: ~26,500 kg
- Best for: Light, high-volume cargo like furniture
45ft High Cube
- External: 45' x 8' x 9'6"
- Internal capacity: ~86 CBM
- Less common, limited port availability
Reefer Containers
Refrigerated containers maintain precise temperatures for perishable goods:
- Temperature range: -30°C to +30°C
- 20ft reefer: ~28 CBM internal
- 40ft HC reefer: ~67 CBM internal
- Requires power supply at port and vessel
- Used for: Food, pharmaceuticals, flowers, chemicals
Specialized Containers
Open Top
- Removable tarpaulin roof
- Top-loading oversized cargo
- Best for: Machinery, tall items, over-height cargo
Flat Rack
- No sides or roof, just base and end walls
- Collapsible versions available
- Best for: Heavy machinery, oversized vehicles, boats
Tank Containers (ISO Tanks)
- Stainless steel cylinder in container frame
- Capacity: 17,500-26,000 liters
- Best for: Liquid chemicals, food-grade liquids, fuels
Ventilated Container
- Passive ventilation through side openings
- Best for: Coffee beans, cocoa, other commodities needing airflow
Choosing the Right Container
By Cargo Type
- Heavy and dense: 20ft standard (weight-limited)
- Light and bulky: 40HC (volume-maximized)
- Temperature sensitive: Reefer
- Oversized: Open top or flat rack
- Liquids: ISO tank or flexitank
By Cost Consideration
- 40ft containers typically cheapest per CBM
- 20ft often 60-75% of 40ft price
- HC same price as standard 40ft (better value)
- Reefers 40-60% premium over dry
- Specialized equipment limited availability
LCL vs FCL Decision Point
If cargo is under 15 CBM, LCL (less-than-container load) may be cheaper. Above 15 CBM, dedicated FCL container typically better value. Consider:
- LCL has more handling, longer transit
- LCL cargo consolidated with others
- FCL offers exclusivity and security
- FCL typical fastest port-to-port
Container Weight Limits
Road regulations limit gross weight. US highway max is typically 80,000 lbs total (truck + container + cargo). This effectively caps cargo at ~44,000 lbs in a 40ft container for domestic trucking.
