At the moment, at least 15 million different containers are used in the world to deliver goods. They are completely different types, designed for different loads and transportation speeds. The containers are ISO certified, which requires production and use according to strictly defined rules. They are used not only for air deliveries, but for delivery by cars and rail connections. The specifications of containers may vary, so it is important to choose the right type for a specific load.
Technical characteristics and dimensions
The main technical characteristic of a container is weight. All data on the weight of the container and the weight of the load are marked on the end door, this is very important, since the total permitted weight must not be exceeded. Weight and payload:
- Shipping container weight: This is the total weight of the container that was issued by the manufacturer and recorded in the instruction manual.
- Useful area and load: this is the total weight of the goods that can be loaded inside the cube without losing their qualities.
- Gross Weight: The weight of the container and cargo must not exceed the total possible weight.
Before a container is used by a logistics company to transship cargo, it undergoes endurance testing. The class label is applied to the end door. The most popular shipping container sizes are 20 and 40 feet. Next, we’ll take a closer look at popular container sizes.
Container dimensions 40 feet
A 40′ container is twice the size of the second most popular type of shipping cube. It only costs 15-25% more to ship than the smaller option. This makes the 40-foot option the most economical choice for hauling cargo. Dimensions from the inside:
- length 12 meters;
- width 2.3 meters;
- height 2.3 meters.
It is quite tall, but the outside size is even larger – 2.5 meters. It can carry a maximum gross weight of 30,480 kg for general purpose containers, up to 60,000 kg for Flatracks platforms and 35,000 kg for reefers. A 40 foot capacity is 67.5 cubic meters.
Container dimensions 20 feet
The standard 20ft container is the most popular of all and is used on vehicles of all sizes, large and small. Internal dimensions of High Cube:
- length 5.9 meters;
- width 2.3 meters;
- height 2.6 meters.
The external dimensions are not very different from the internal ones, except for the height, which reaches 2.9 meters. It can carry a maximum gross weight of 30.48 tons for general purpose containers and up to 45,000 kg for flat racks. The 20-foot refrigerator has a payload of 27,400 kg. A 20 foot capacity is 37.5 cubic meters.
Warning and work signs
Various signs and notes may be located on the container. Logistics and customs officials know what they mean and act in accordance with instructions. They can detect and indicate the type of load, its handling, and the desired position (for example, tilted). If dangerous goods are delivered, the outside is marked according to the classification of the shipment. Each worker uses the markup as a basis for their work.
Which container to choose for cargo transportation?
There is a wide range of shipping containers to choose from, so it is essential to use a professional who can offer the best service and advice. Pay attention to:
- What options are available.
- Standard sizes of each container type.
- Capacity of each type of cargo container.
- Which option is suitable for your cargo?
By choosing the best option, you can significantly reduce transportation costs.