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Types of shipping containers:
A complete guide to optimizing logistics

What is a cargo container and why is it essential?

In the world of global transport and logistics, cargo containers play a crucial role by enabling the efficient transportation of goods through various modes of transport, such as ships, trains, and trucks. These standardized containers not only simplify cargo handling but also help reduce operational costs, enhance safety, and streamline supply chain management.

The use of standardized containers has transformed logistics worldwide, allowing a continuous flow of goods between countries and continents. However, choosing the right container is critical, as each type is designed to meet specific needs depending on the type of goods being transported.

In this guide, we will explore the types of cargo containers, their most common applications, and how to choose the right container to optimize the logistics processes in your company.

The importance of choosing the right container for your cargo

Selecting the correct cargo container is a fundamental pillar in the logistics chain, as each type of merchandise requires specific conditions for safe and efficient transport. Choosing the right container not only affects the integrity of the products but also optimizes resources throughout the logistics process.

A well-chosen container can minimize loading and unloading times, facilitate handling at different points in the supply chain, and better adapt to the modes of transport used. This is crucial for companies looking to maximize operational efficiency and meet delivery deadlines, avoiding costly delays and ensuring customer satisfaction.

In addition, using the appropriate containers is a key strategy for improving cargo traceability, as it allows for better inventory control and facilitates incident management. In a globalized logistics environment, where precision and speed are essential, making informed decisions about the type of container can make a significant difference in a company’s competitiveness and profitability.

Main types of cargo containers

Dry container

Dry containers are used across a wide range of industries due to their versatility. However, if your cargo is temperature-sensitive or requires more specialized space, you may need to consider other container types.

Features: The dry container is the most common type in the freight transport industry. With a closed and solid structure, it provides excellent protection against weather conditions.

Uses: This type of container is ideal for dry goods, such as clothing, electronics, manufactured products, and industrial materials.

Available sizes: 20 and 40 feet. The 40-foot container is the most widely used standard for general cargo shipments.
Reefer container

Reefer containers are essential to ensure that products arrive in optimal condition, especially when transported over long international routes.

Features: Reefer containers are designed to maintain a constant temperature during transport. They are equipped with a refrigeration system that regulates the internal temperature, allowing for the transportation of temperature-sensitive products such as perishable food, pharmaceuticals, and flowers.

Uses: Ideal for perishable products such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and medications that require temperature control.

Temperature: Reefer containers can maintain temperatures ranging from -25 °C to +25 °C, making them perfect for products that need to be kept fresh or frozen.
Open top container

Open top containers offer flexibility for transporting products that do not fit within the dimensions of a standard container, which is common in the transport of industrial goods.

Features: An open top container is a container without a roof, which facilitates the loading and unloading of tall or bulky products. These containers have a tarpaulin cover to protect the cargo from the elements.

Uses: They are ideal for bulky cargo such as heavy machinery, turbines, and any object that does not fit in a standard container.

Available sizes: 20 and 40 feet.
Flat rack container

The flat rack container is perfect for items that require transport without height restrictions, as it has no roof or walls limiting the size of the cargo.
Features: Flat rack containers are flat platforms without walls or a roof, designed to carry oversized or heavy products.

Uses: Ideal for heavy vehicles, small boats, cranes, and industrial machinery.

Available sizes: 20 and 40 feet.
Bulk cargo container

Bulk cargo containers enable the efficient transport of large quantities of unpackaged products, significantly reducing handling costs.
Features: Bulk containers are designed to transport unpackaged goods such as granules, liquids, powders, and loose materials.

Uses: Commonly used in the agricultural industry to transport grains, cereals, sugar, and minerals.

Capacity: 20 feet.
Tank container

Tank containers are a safe and efficient option for transporting liquids that require specific storage and transport conditions.
Features: Tank containers are designed for the transport of bulk liquids or gases. These containers are cylindrical and have a reinforced structure to withstand the pressure of transporting products such as chemicals or fuels.

Uses: Used to transport hazardous chemicals, industrial oils, fuels, and other liquids or gases.

Available size 20 feet.
Platform container

This type of container is mainly used for cargo that requires a solid platform to be secured during transport.
Features: Platform containers are a base without walls or a roof, ideal for heavy and oversized cargo.

Uses: Perfect for heavy machinery, vehicles, and large materials.

Available sizes 20 and 40 feet.
High cube container

High cube containers are 40-foot versions of standard containers but with an extra foot in height, allowing for more internal space.
Features: They are ideal for lightweight but bulky goods such as furniture, appliances, and clothing.

Uses: Perfect for heavy machinery, vehicles, and large materials.

Available sizes 40 and 45 feet.

How to select the appropriate container for your cargo?

Selecting the right container for your cargo is an essential step to ensure efficiency and safety in freight transport. To make the best decision, it is important to consider several key factors:

Type of goods: Identify whether your cargo is general, perishable, liquid, or hazardous. For example, perishable products require refrigerated containers (reefers), while liquids or chemicals may require tank containers.

Dimensions and weight: Check the dimensions and weight of the cargo to ensure that the selected container can accommodate it without issues. This is crucial to avoid overloading and to maximize available space.

Transport conditions: Evaluate the conditions your cargo will be exposed to, such as temperature changes, humidity, or sudden movements. Containers with special features like ventilation or thermal insulation may be necessary in some cases.

Route and regulations: Consider the specific regulations of each route or country your cargo will pass through. Some types of containers comply with specific standards that facilitate customs clearance and reduce legal complications.

Usage frequency: If your cargo is recurring, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a specific container that fits your long-term logistics needs..

Taking these aspects into account when selecting a container not only improves the protection of your cargo but also optimizes costs and ensures regulatory compliance at each stage of transport.

Key advantages of using the right cargo container

Space optimization: Specialized containers allow for maximum use of available cargo space, reducing transportation and storage costs.

Cost reduction: By choosing the right type of container for your cargo, you can significantly reduce handling costs and the risk of damage.

Safety and protection: Each type of container is designed to protect your goods during transport, ensuring they arrive in good condition regardless of external conditions.

Regulatory compliance: Containers comply with international transport regulations, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards.

Innovations in cargo containers: driving the logistics of the future

Cargo container innovations are revolutionizing the way goods are transported. Smart containers, equipped with technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) and advanced sensors, allow real-time monitoring of internal conditions such as temperature, humidity, and potential impacts. This continuous tracking capability not only enhances cargo safety, but also optimizes supply chain management by providing valuable data that can be used to predict and prevent issues before they occur.

Additionally, the trend toward more eco-friendly containers is gaining momentum. Made with recyclable materials and designed to be lighter, these containers help reduce the carbon footprint of transport, aligning with growing environmental regulations and consumer expectations for more sustainable practices.

Keeping up with these innovations is crucial for companies seeking to maintain a competitive edge in the logistics market. Adapting to new cargo container technologies not only optimizes current processes, but also positions businesses as leaders in efficiency and sustainability within the industry.

The right container for every need

Choosing the right cargo container is essential for any company involved in international trade. By understanding the features and benefits of different container types, businesses can significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance logistics safety.

Whether you need to transport general goods, perishable products, or heavy materials, there is a suitable container for every need. Use this guide to ensure your company chooses the best available options in the industry.

Want to optimize your logistics operations? Discover how Essentos can help you efficiently manage your transport and ensure the safety and compliance of your international shipments. Contact us today!