Types of shipping containers and their dimensions

In international transport, choosing the right container is crucial for the safety of the goods and

cost optimisation.

There are various types of shipping containers designed for different cargoes, with the standard

20-foot and 40-foot containers being the most commonly used.

Dry Van Container (Dry Cargo) This is the most popular and widely used type of container, ideal for dry goods(boxes, pallets, drums). 20’ Dry Van: Approximately 6m long, 2.4m wide and 2.6m high. Capacity of around 33 m³. 40’ Dry Van: Approximately 12m long, 2.4m wide and 2.6m high. Capacity of around 67 m³.

High Cube (HC) Container: Similar to Dry Vans, but with an extra foot of height (approx. 30 cm more), ideal for bulky goods or light but tall loads. 40’ High Cube: 12.19 m long x 2.44 m wide x 2.89 m high.3.

Reefer

Refrigerated) Designed for cargo requiring temperature control (food, pharmaceuticals). They are fitted with a refrigeration unit that maintains temperatures between -25°C and +25°C. 4.

Open Top Container They have the same dimensions as a Dry Van but without a roof, allowing heavy or tall goods to be loaded using a crane. They are covered with a waterproof tarpaulin.

Flat Rack Containers without side walls (and sometimes without end walls) designed for oversized or heavy cargo that does not fit in a standard container, such as machinery or vehicles.

Tank Container (ISO Tank) A metal structure containing a tank, used to transport bulk liquids (chemicals, oils, wines).

Open Side These have a side opening, facilitating the loading and unloading of long products.

Pallet Wide Designed internally with a special width (over 2.44 m) to maximise the loading of

Euro pallets (they can accommodate two pallets side by side).