Types of Containers You Can Ship By Sea

Shipping by sea is an economical and reliable way to transport goods around the world. The ability to transport large volumes of cargo over long distances has made sea shipping an indispensable part of global trade. The most common way to transport goods by sea is by using shipping containers. In this article, we will explore the different types of containers available for sea shipping and their uses.

Standard Dry Containers

Standard dry containers are the most commonly used type of container for sea shipping. They are versatile and can be used to transport a wide range of goods. These containers come in various sizes, from 20 feet to 40 feet in length, and are usually made of steel or aluminum.

Standard dry containers are best suited for goods that are not temperature-sensitive or require special handling. They are commonly used to transport goods such as clothing, furniture, electronics, and non-perishable food items.

Refrigerated Containers

Refrigerated containers, also known as "reefers," are used to transport temperature-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. These containers are equipped with a built-in refrigeration system that allows the temperature to be controlled.

Refrigerated containers come in various sizes, from 20 feet to 40 feet in length, and can maintain a temperature range of -25°C to +25°C. They are usually made of steel and are insulated to ensure that the temperature remains constant throughout the shipping journey.

Open Top Containers

Open top containers are similar to standard dry containers but have an open top instead of a solid roof. They are designed for the transportation of oversized cargo that cannot fit in a standard container. The open top allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo.

Open top containers come in various sizes, from 20 feet to 40 feet in length, and are made of steel or aluminum. They are commonly used to transport goods such as heavy machinery, construction equipment, and large vehicles.

Flat Rack Containers

Flat rack containers are designed for the transportation of oversized or irregularly shaped cargo that cannot fit in a standard container. They have no walls or roof and are essentially a flatbed with collapsible sides.

Flat rack containers come in various sizes, from 20 feet to 40 feet in length, and are made of steel or aluminum. They are commonly used to transport goods such as heavy machinery, vehicles, and large pipes.

Open Side Containers

Open side containers are similar to standard dry containers but have side doors instead of just end doors. This allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo from the side.

Open side containers come in various sizes, from 20 feet to 40 feet in length, and are made of steel or aluminum. They are commonly used to transport goods such as construction materials, pallets, and large equipment.

Tank Containers

Tank containers are designed to transport liquids and gases such as chemicals, food products, and petroleum. They are essentially a tank that is mounted on a flatbed.

Tank containers come in various sizes, from 20 feet to 40 feet in length, and are made of steel or aluminum. They are equipped with a pumping system that allows for the easy loading and unloading of liquids and gases.

Conclusion

Shipping by sea is an efficient and cost-effective way to transport goods around the world. The different types of containers available for sea shipping offer a range of options for transporting various types of cargo. Understanding the different types of containers and their uses can help businesses make informed decisions about how to transport their goods.

If you want to learn more about shipping containers and sea freight, check out the Flummox blog.