Types of Shipping Containers: How to Choose the Right One

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types of shipping containers

Are you looking to invest in shipping containers? Are you wondering what the different types are and how to choose one? If so, then you need to read this article.

Doing so will help ensure that you can move cargo, cargo loads, and supplies at greater efficiency. For example, you can store goods and materials ready. Be sure to look over this list for the different types of shipping containers that you can look into.

Dry Storage Container

When it comes to choosing the right type of shipping containers for storing dry goods, a dry storage container is an excellent choice. These containers are typically made of steel. This makes them highly durable and reliable for shipping.

They also boast an industrial design, making them well-suited for a wide variety of commercial applications. Also, they are typically constructed with ISO-certified specifications. This ensures they are of the highest quality and will be well-protected against any damage during shipping.

Flat Rack Container

A flat rack is the best container unit for items that need to be loaded from the side instead of being loaded from the top. This type of container is often used for heavy machinery, cars, or other heavy items that are not easily loaded through the top of a normal shipping container. Flat rack containers come in 20’ and 40’ sizes.

The 20’ container is easily loaded onto a regular truck, and the 40’ container needs to be loaded onto a heavy-duty truck. When deciding on a flat rack container, users should consider the size and weight of the items they will transport. As well as the need for a side opening of the container.

It is also important to consider the availability of a suitable truck to transport the container, as this is unique to flat rack containers. With the right information and knowledge, users will be able to choose the right flat rack container for their needs.

Open Top Container

Open-top shipping containers are the best option for over-dimensional loads. These containers feature doors at one or both ends and no roof. This makes it easy to pack, transport, and unload oversized cargo.

Cargo is then loaded and unloaded through the top of the container, with straps, nets, and/or tarps used to secure the load during transit. They are typically used to transport large machinery and oversized items like automobiles, boats, ships, and construction equipment. Open-top containers can be transported by truck, rail, ship, or airplane.

When choosing which type of shipping container to use, your shipment size, shape, and destination will all be factors to have in mind. In order to save space, you can also choose containers with removable top frames or collapsible containers. For added protection and secure loading, opt for an open-top container with cargo securement systems such as straps, netting, and lashing.

Open Side Storage Container

An open side storage container is one of the best choices when it comes to shipping and storing goods. This style allows for easy access that other containers don’t provide. Open sides, combined with an open roof, are a great way to store items that require more visibility or access from either side.

This style of container is perfect for large shipments that require much handling of items on a daily basis, as well as items that require organization and filing. This type of container is very popular with the agricultural and manufacturing industries, as well as those in the retail and supply chain industries.

Also, open-side storage containers are incredibly easy to transport due to their lower weight and are designed to easily be mobilized by forklifts and cranes. The combination of strength, usable space, and easy access makes an open-side storage container an excellent option to consider when it comes to shipping and storing items.

Refrigerated ISO Containers

Refrigerated ISO containers are an essential choice in the types of shipping containers to transport temperature-sensitive items. They are versatile and can be used worldwide. Refrigerated ISO containers monitor and provide stable, controlled temperatures with minimal fluctuations and maximum efficiency.

This allows the contents to remain in optimal condition during distribution, storage, and transport. Also, since they are pre-made and designed to ISO standards, they are stackable. This makes them all the more space-saving and economical.

This container has a lot of great features. It has easy open doors, accessible side doors, and loading ramps. This help make the loading and unloading process simple.

ISO Tanks

These tanks are made of high-grade stainless steel and are suitable for the transportation of both non-hazardous and hazardous liquid cargo. In addition to transporting liquids, they can also be applicable for powders and gases. When choosing an ISO tank, it is important to consider the type of material being shipped, the volume, the environmental conditions (temperature and pressure), and the expected transit time.

It is also important to make sure that the tank meets all the necessary international standards, such as the size of the tank, the type of material used, and the strength of the material. ISO tanks provide a secure and cost-effective way to transport hazardous and non-hazardous liquid cargo with minimal risk.

Half Height Containers

Half-height containers are a type of shipping container used for shorter delivery times and shorter lifespan services. They feature 18 ft. to 20 ft. lengths, a 1524 mm x 2743 mm double cargo door, and a height of either 2 ft. 6 in. and 4 ft. 6 in. These containers are perfect for light and bulky loads, although they are not designed to carry large, heavy items.

When choosing the right half-height container, consider the type of goods you want to transport. Are the items heavy? Consider a full-height container for added strength.

Are the items light and bulky? Then this type of container can offer the best option. Also, think about the duration the goods need to be transported. Half-height containers are ideal for shorter transportation times and limited services, while full-height containers are best for longer periods of time.

Learn More About the Types of Shipping Containers Today

Shipping containers offer versatile, secure, and cost-efficient shipping solutions. By understanding the different types of shipping containers and their uses, businesses are better equipped to make informed decisions and improve their logistics requirement.

Talk to an expert today to get advice on the best shipping containers for your unique needs.

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