Maritime transport is key in global trade, and containers are an essential part of its efficiency. More than just containers, their variety of sizes and types makes them perfect for different loads, ensuring the safe and agile transfer of goods.
What are Shipping Containers?
Shipping containers are high-capacity metal containers, used to load, protect, and move products. They can withstand maritime conditions and facilitate global trade. This allows container transport to be carried out safely and efficiently.
History of Containers: How Did Trade Emerge and Revolutionize?
A key element in today's international trade, cargo containers emerged as a response to the inefficiencies of the traditional freight system in the 1930s. Malcolm McLean, inspired by the efficiency of truck trailers, devised standardized modular units for land and sea transportation. In 1956, his vision came to fruition with the first container shipment between New York and Charleston, marking a milestone in the history of shipping and ushering in a new era of logistics efficiency.
Upon arrival, the container revolutionized international trade by reducing costs, streamlining processes and minimizing damage. Its modular design and stackbility optimized space on ships and improved port efficiency, Becoming the logistics solution that changed the history of commerce.
Types of Maritime Containers. Dimensions and Uses.
The most common measurements of maritime containers are 20 or 40 feet, but there are also other sizes such as 10, 30, 45, and 53-foot containers, which allow the transfer of a wide range of cargoes. Below, we explain the different types of containers and the use given to each one:
Dry Van or Standard Container
The Dry Van or standard container is mostly used for transporting general products such as dry food, furniture, household appliances, clothing, and electronics. Its fully enclosed and sealed design protects against the elements and additional security against theft and damage. In addition, its cost is lower compared to other types of containers. However, it is not suitable for bulk cargo, liquids, or gases, as it is not designed to hold these products safely and has a maximum weight limit.
High Cube Container
The high Cube container is like the standard one but offers an additional 30 cm in height, allowing larger volumes or size products to be transported without compromising the safety and stability of the load. It is ideal for general products such as furniture, appliances, and clothing. However, its cost is higher than that of standard containers and does not include ventilation or refrigeration systems, which limits its use goods that require temperature control.
Open Top Container
The Open Top container is deal for cargo that needs to be loaded or unloaded from above, such as heavy machinery, large equipment, or irregularly shaped products. This type of container is especially useful for bulky loads that need the use of cranes for handing. The absence of a roof facilities the loading and unloading process. However, their price is usually higher due to complexity of their manufacture.
Flat Rack Container
The Flat Rack container is distinguished by the lack of sidewalls and roof, which makes it suitable for transporting loads that exceed the dimensions of a standard container. Its design allows the transport of bulky goods, but it lacks protection on the sides and top. It is necessary to cover the load with a waterproof tarpaulin to prevent water damage. These tarpaulins are not included as standard and, in some cases, may not be available in all ports, offered by some shipping companies at an additional cost.
Open Side Container
The Open Side container is ideal for transporting bulky goods, heavy machinery, and products that cannot enter through standard doors or from above. Its side access makes it easy to load and unload large products. However, this type of container poses a higher risk of theft due to the additional access points, which require additional security measures.
Tank or ISOtank container
The Tank container is designed for the transport of bulk liquids, optimizing the loading and unloading process with minimal manual intervention. In addition, it can be used for temporary storage of liquids. However, it is expensive to maintain, as it is made of carbon steel, and its interior must be cleaned regularly to prevent rust build-up.
Reefer or Refrigerated Container
The reefer container better known as a refrigerated container, is ideal for the transport of perishable products, fresh and frozen foods, medicines, chemicals, and other goods that require controlled temperature. These containers maintain a constant cold environment and allow different types of products to be stored simultaneously, eliminating the need for cold storage facilities at the destination. However, combining products with different temperature requirements in the same container can be challenging, often leading to additional costs due to the specific needs of each load.
Sea containers are essential to global trade, allowing for an agile and secure exchange of goods. Today, they continue to adapt to new demands and technologies, driving a more efficient and sustainable future.
SPARX helps you choose the best options and optimize your costs, maximizing the value of each shipment. Do you need help? Contact us: https://www.sparxlogistics.com/contact-us.
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