What Are the Different Types of Shipping Containers That Exist Today?
These days, shipping containers are used for more than shipping. You’ll find them as homes, restaurants, pop-up shops, and more.
But, what if you do need them for shipping? No matter what you are using a shipping container for, it’s important to know that there are different variations.
Keep reading to learn the different types of shipping containers that you can choose from.
Table of Contents
Dry Storage Container
In the shipping industry, the most common shipping container is the dry storage container. They can ship dry goods that don’t need temperature control.
You can find these types of shipping containers through Heavy Haulers and other standard container shipping and transportation services.
Flat Rack Container
If something has to get loaded from the top or sides, flat rack containers are ideal. You can find this type of container with collapsible or non-collapsible walls. Some of them don’t have walls at all.
Flat rack containers are strong as they are steel manufactured. They come in 20′ and 40′ sizes.
Open Top Container
Open top containers create a simplified loading and unloading process. They don’t have solid roofs and instead have removable bows and a weatherproof tarpaulin.
The roof can be secured with ropes to make loading/unloading easier. The door header is also swung out allowing for better cargo access.
Open top containers are ideal solutions for transporting bulky cargo such as heavy machinery and equipment.
Tunnel Container
The best shipping containers for loading and unloading materials from the sides are tunnel containers. There are doors at both ends of the container.
They are similar to dry storage containers but differ in that dry storage containers only have doors on one end.
Open Side Storage Container
The best cargo containers for wide merchandise storage and shipping are open-side storage containers.
Instead of open doors on either end of the storage container, the unit can change to open completely on the larger sides. Having a side completely open allows for the storage of larger loads.
Temperature Controlled Containers
There are some insulated and thermal containers that have regulated temperature control. This keeps goods warmer during transit.
In contrast, there are refrigerated ISO containers with a controlled low temperature. These units are used for perishable substances like fruits, vegetables, and meats.
Special-Purpose Container
A special-purpose container is exactly what it sounds like. These are custom-made and can form into any shipping container size.
People ask for specific-purpose containers for certain cargo shipments.
Types of Shipping Containers to Know
Shipping containers are used for a variety of tasks. However, to ensure your shipments get handled with care, you need to know the different types of shipping containers.
Choosing the right one will make things easier when it comes to loading and unloading items. Consider what you need to ship or store when choosing a shipping container.
For more informative articles like this on a variety of topics, check out the other posts on our blog.
Choosing the right one will make things easier when it comes to loading and unloading items. Consider what you need to ship or store when choosing a shipping container.
For more informative articles like this on a variety of topics, check out the other posts on our blog.