Have you ever considered how crucial the shipping industry is? Every company with a product to sell relies on fast, efficient shipping. That’s why recent shipping issues have impacted the global economy.
Shipping can take many forms; people transport goods by land, air, and sea. Shipping companies have had to create many different types of shipping containers to accommodate specific products and routes.
When most people think of shipping containers, they picture the classic rectangular containers often seen on boats. In truth, there are many other kinds of containers available.
Knowing what shipping containers are out there can help you move your products safely and efficiently. Read on to learn about the different kinds of shipping containers.
General-Purpose Containers
General-purpose containers are the shipping containers mentioned above. They’re the classic rectangular container that comes to mind when you think about shipping freight.
These containers feature sturdy sidewalls and a roof, with doors on one end. They’re also referred to as dry containers because their construction is great for keeping out moisture and bad weather.
Flat Rack Containers
Flat rack containers are containers with collapsible sides. The side walls can fold down flat, allowing you to load cargo from the side or above. The cargo stays secure thanks to rigid end walls.
These are the best shipping containers for transporting large equipment that may not fit between the walls of a regular shipping container.
Open-Top Containers
This type of container is similar to a general-purpose container, with one major difference: the roof can be removed. As a result, open-top containers are perfect for shipping cargo that’s taller than average.
Refrigerated ISO Containers
Do you need to ship something that needs to stay cold, such as meat or produce? If so, you’ll need a temperature-controlled container that can keep things cool while in transit.
A versatile logistics company like Foxconn Logistics can offer specialized containers like this; visit foxconnlogistics.com to learn more.
Half-Height Containers
The mining industry produces a lot of dense, heavy cargo; shipments of coal, for instance, are a lot heavier than other shipments of a similar size. Half-height containers make it easy to transport heavy items in bulk.
Half-height containers are also useful if you have a low volume of items to ship; that way, you won’t waste a whole container on a handful of goods.
Swap Body Containers
Swap body containers are popular in Europe due to their modular design: they can be used as either a truck chassis or a railcar. They have convertible tops, allowing them to carry a wide range of cargo.
One major downside to swap body containers is that they aren’t stackable.
Understand the Types of Shipping Containers
By offering different types of shipping containers, companies in the logistics industry can tailor their shipping methods to specific products. That way, every item is guaranteed to reach its destination on time and in good condition.
A sound shipping strategy is an important part of any successful business. For more tips on improving your company, visit our business blog–you’ll find advice on marketing, improving employee morale, and more!
