When people hear “shipping containers,” they tend to envision the large metal boxes that ships carry cargo in. This is true, and the majority of shipping containers are indeed metal.
But, there are quite a few different types of shipping containers.
Not only can you choose from metal or plastic, but a wide variety of other types of shipping containers.
This article will break down all the different types of shipping containers and help you understand which best suits your shipping needs.
Standard Shipping Containers
A few shipping container options are available, but the most common is the ” standard ” type. These are the classic metal boxes that you see on ships and at ports. They come in various sizes, but the most common is the 20-foot-long container.
Standard shipping containers are made of steel and have a corrugated wall. This gives them strength and durability. They are also designed to be stackable.
Shipping container prices vary depending on the size and type of container. These 20-foot containers start at around $2000.
High Cube Shipping Containers
High cube shipping containers are taller than standard shipping containers. They are ideal for storing and transporting tall items. These containers are also the best shipping containers for storing large volumes of items for their larger internal capacity.
Our storage containers are a best and store your items in convenient way.
High cube shipping containers are available in both 20ft and 40ft sizes.
Refrigerated Shipping Containers
Refrigerated shipping containers are used to transport goods that need to be kept cool or cold, such as food or pharmaceuticals. They have a special cooling system that keeps the goods inside at a consistent temperature. They are also designed to be airtight to not spoil the goods inside.
These shipping containers need some tracking when you ship them because of the storage time of your goods. The good news is that there are systems like Linxup which can help you track your container. This will help keep your deliveries on schedule.
Flat Rack Shipping Containers
There are two types of flat rack shipping containers: the open top and the closed top. The open-top has no roof and is ideal for taller cargo, while the closed-top is completely enclosed. Both types have collapsible sides, which makes them easier to load and unload.
When not in use, flat rack shipping containers can be stored on their side or on top of each other.
Open Top Shipping Containers
The open-top is the best shipping container for those who need to transport large, bulky items. Open-top shipping containers have a removable tarp-like cover. This makes it easy to load and unload items.
These containers are also great for storing items that are not stored in containers, such as construction materials, lumber, or vehicles.
Tank Containers
Tank containers are the most versatile of all container types. They are cylindrical, with corner castings that enable stacking and inter-modal transportation.
Tank containers transport all sorts of liquids, from water and chemicals to food-grade products and oils. There are tanks for transporting dangerous chemicals and for carrying food products.
Know Which Types of Shipping Containers Are Right for You
There are many different types of shipping containers out there, and it can be tricky to know which one is right for your needs. This guide outlines the most common types of shipping containers, so you can make an informed decision for your next shipment.
Check out our other posts for more helpful guides if you liked this article.