Shippers are always looking for the next cost-cutting solution. However, they also need a safe way to transport products. The problem is you only sometimes know which risk is more significant, cutting costs or ensuring the package arrives safely.
This leads some to use shipping containers that may not meet international regulations. No shipping container will be completely safe or 100% cost-efficient. That's why it's essential to understand all your available options.
In this article, we want to discuss the different shipping container types and their uses. Let's take a look.
Standard Intermodal Containers
Standard intermodal shipping container units are the most common type of vessel used to transport goods. They're twice as strong as steel and come in various sizes, ranging from 10-foot to 40-foot containers. These are also the most flexible containers, usually able to fit in most ships, trains, and on trucks.
These rugged, waterproof containers have solid doors on both ends, protecting the cargo from the elements. They also include floor-level access doors for easy loading and unloading.
Refrigerated Specialized Shipping Containers
These containers are essential for temperature-sensitive goods. They have effective insulation and climate control systems.
Refrigerated specialized shipping container sizes vary. They also have different shapes and come with diesel and electricity.
They are made from either steel or aluminum. It depends on the customer's needs and the goods being transported.
These containers are great for transporting food, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies. They are reliable and secure for lengthy shipments. Also, their advanced insulation prevents goods from going bad during transport.
Open Top Cargo Containers
Open-top cargo containers are unique. They are the only type of shipping container that needs to be fully enclosed.
This type of container carries larger, bulkier items that wouldn't fit a traditional shipping container. It's also one of the most cost-effective shipping containers. It can be loaded from the top rather than the side.
These containers export and transport large goods such as machinery or automobiles. They're also great for shipping goods in load-bearing vessels, where goods must be loaded into the middle or bottom of the ship.
Even though they are not fully enclosed, these shipping containers are still weather-resistant. Also, they are secure enough to provide protection for your goods.
Flat-Rack Containers
Flat rack containers are usually open on four sides with no walls or roof. But they may have front and back walls, making them great for loading heavier items. This container for shipping cargo has collapsible sides and ends to extend its capacity.
They also have heavy lifting lugs that accommodate transportation via cranes and other lifting devices. Check out Alabama container transport for more information.
Know the Different Types of Shipping Containers to Ship Goods Appropriately
Knowing the different types of shipping containers is essential for business shipping. This will help ensure that the goods needed to transport are secure, safe, and meet the shipping standards. These containers are designed to quickly and safely transport goods around the world.
Different containers are ideal for different shipping needs depending on the type of goods being shipped. Companies can explore their options to ensure a smoother shipping process.
Browse our site for more informative posts.