Containers may look simple from the outside, but they are the backbone of modern global trade.
From consumer electronics to frozen food, just about every product that moves by sea spends part of its journey inside a container. Choosing the right type is not just a matter of space it can affect the safety, speed, and cost of a shipment.
For businesses managing international logistics, understanding the options available helps avoid delays, damage, and unnecessary expenses.
Standard Dry Containers
The most common option, dry containers are versatile and suitable for the majority of cargo. They come in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes, with the 40-foot high cube providing extra height for lighter but bulkier goods.
They are ideal for general freight such as clothing, furniture, or manufactured goods. However, they are not designed for temperature-sensitive cargo or oversized items. Using a standard container for the wrong type of shipment is a frequent mistake that leads to problems further down the supply chain.
Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers
When goods need strict temperature control, refrigerated containers are essential. They maintain cargo within set ranges, from frozen seafood to chilled pharmaceuticals.
Reefers require power at every stage of the journey, including at ports and inland depots. This means additional planning and cost considerations, but the protection they provide is vital for perishable and high-value goods.
Open-Top Containers
For machinery, timber, or any cargo that is too tall for a standard unit, open-top containers are the answer. With a removable roof, they allow for top-loading of oversized goods using cranes.
While flexible, open-tops are exposed to weather risk, so additional covering or tarpaulins are often needed. They also tend to carry higher freight rates compared to standard containers.
Tank Containers
For liquid or gas cargo, tank containers provide a safe and standardised solution. They are commonly used for chemicals, food-grade liquids, and fuels.
Tank containers are regulated more strictly than other types, and shippers must ensure compliance with hazardous goods rules where applicable.
The Cost of Getting It Wrong
Choosing the wrong container is not just an inconvenience; it can result in damaged cargo, non-compliance with regulations, or unnecessary additional costs. For example, sending temperature-sensitive goods in a dry container may invalidate insurance cover, while oversized machinery loaded into an unsuitable unit can cause delays at port.
Working with a forwarder that understands the requirements of each container type ensures the best fit for every shipment.
Looking Ahead:
Containerisation has transformed global trade, but success depends on matching the right cargo to the right container. As supply chains become more complex, businesses need reliable guidance to make the best choices and protect their goods in transit.
At Oceanside Logistics, we help clients navigate the full range of container options to find the most efficient, compliant, and cost-effective solution. If you would like to discuss this further please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.
