Curriculum
Shipping Containers: Types, Application & Selection
Module 1: Introduction
0/4
Module 2: Shipping Container Types
0/10
Module 3: Components, Markings & Specifications
0/4
Module 4: Selection & Application
0/3
Module 5: Case Studies
0/2
Module 6: Final Test
0/1
Shipping Container Basics
Shipping containers are standardized cargo boxes used for transporting goods via multiple modes of transportation, including ocean vessels, trains, and trucks.
All shipping containers are required to meet the standards specified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and come in various types and sizes to meet different cargo needs.
Common sizes include 20-foot and 40-foot containers, and are counted as TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and FEUs (Forty-foot Equivalent Units). One 20-foot container is counted as 1 TEU, while one 40-foot container can be counted as either 2 TEUs or 1 FEU.
Types of containers include dry, reefer, open-top, flat rack, and tank containers, which we will further elaborate on in the following module.
Typically constructed from maritime-grade corten steel, these containers are designed to withstand the rigors of long-distance transportation and provide secure storage for various types of cargo.
To prevent rust and corrosion, shipping containers are coated with a protective layer of epoxy or zinc-rich paint. Below, you’ll find a list of common shipping container types with their respective ISO codes.
Weight Limits
The maximum gross weight of shipping containers is typically around 30 tonnes, but the payload capacities vary based on the container’s size and type. For instance, 45-foot and high cube containers offer larger internal dimensions; however, their heavier tare weights limit their payload capacities.
Additionally, the maximum gross weight limit can vary depending on the mode of transportation and type of container used. We will cover the specifics in detail in a later module.
It’s important to note that not all countries allow shipping containers to be loaded to these maximum weight limits due to limitations in their port equipment. Some ports may not have the infrastructure to handle the heavier containers, leading to safety and operational concerns.
As a result, these countries impose their own permissible maximum weights, which can be significantly lower than the container’s theoretical limits. Shippers must comply with these local regulations to ensure safe and efficient handling at ports of origin and destination, avoiding potential fines, delays, or logistical issues.
Cargo Capacity
The internal dimensions of shipping containers vary by size and type, affecting available cargo space. In a single tier (i.e. no stacking), standard 20-foot containers can transport 10 standard pallets or 11 EUR pallets, while 40-foot containers can transport 20 standard pallets or 24 EUR pallets. However, if height and commodity allow, pallets may be stacked to provide higher container utilization as illustrated below.
With irregularly shaped cargo, packaging constraints, and stacking limitations, achieving 100% container utilization may not be feasible. Proper planning is essential to maximize space efficiency and ensure safe transportation.