Get to Know the Sizes and Types of Shipping Containers
JUN 22, 2025
Shipping containers are a crucial part of the logistics industry as they are used to pack large quantities of goods together, making it easier to organize and increasing cargo space. These containers come in various sizes and types to meet the different needs of each type of shipment. CPLINTER has summarized the information about shipping containers in an easy-to-read format.
Standard shipping containers come in three sizes:
The 20-foot container (20'):
2.3 meters wide, 5.90 meters long, and 2.3 meters high. It can carry a maximum weight of 21 tons, making it suitable for heavy goods such as machinery.
The 40-foot container (40'):
2.3 meters wide, 12 meters long, and 2.3 meters high. It can carry a maximum weight of 26 tons and is ideal for lighter goods in large quantities.
The 40-foot high cube container (40' HC):
2.3 meters wide, 12 meters long, and 2.6 meters high. It can carry a maximum weight of 26 tons and is suitable for large, lightweight goods.
Note: The size of containers may vary slightly depending on the service provider.
Shipping containers types
Shipping containers can be categorized into several types, each designed for different uses:
Dry Containers:
These are the most commonly used containers, available in various sizes, highly durable, but without temperature control. They are ideal for transporting dry goods, electronics, clothing, and more.
Reefer Containers:
These containers are equipped with refrigeration units and temperature gauges, making them more expensive than standard containers. They are perfect for transporting perishable items such as fresh produce, food, medicine, and medical equipment that require constant temperature control.
Open Top Containers:
These containers have an unusually high structure with an open top and no roof, making them ideal for shipping taller items such as large machinery, pipes, and vehicles. However, they cannot be stacked, which results in inefficient use of space and higher costs.
Flat-rack Containers:
These containers have no top or side walls, making them ideal for transporting wide or oversized items that exceed standard container sizes. They are often used for shipping industrial machinery, tractors, and construction materials.
ISO Tank Containers:
These containers are designed like large tanks and are specifically used for transporting liquids. They have a frame structure allowing them to be stacked on top of one another.
Ventilated Containers:
These containers have ventilation holes at the top and bottom, allowing airflow and preventing moisture buildup. They are often used for transporting moisture-sensitive goods such as cocoa beans, coffee beans, and other agricultural products. They are more affordable than refrigerated containers and help prevent spoilage.
If you're interested in logistics services, CPLINTER offers comprehensive Door-to-Door logistics solutions, including air, road, and sea freight, cargo packaging, export document preparation, and customs clearance. For more information or inquiries, please contact CPLINTER at 02-519-4426, 063-519-4426, or 091-519-4426, or through Line @cplinter. You can also find more details on our website at www.cplinter.com. Watch the "WHAT IS EP.11: Containers" episode, which covers container types and sizes used for international shipping, particularly for road and sea transport. Learn more by following this link: https://youtu.be/1RhwcOaS8fc.
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