Shipping containers have been used heavily in various industries such as shipping, trade, transport, and housing. Their primary use is to transport cargo and goods by air, land, or water. There are other interesting ways that shipping containers can be used, though. They can be used to build a house, a mobile office, self-storage facility, and others. The sky is almost the limit when it comes to the applications for shipping containers.

Because of this, different types of containers are available on the market. They vary in structure, materials, dimension, and construction to meet different project requirements. Knowing them will help you make the right choice.

Dry Storage

Dry storage or standard containers are the most commonly used in the industry today. These are available in lengths of 10 feet, 20 feet, and 40 feet. Dry storage containers are mostly used to transport almost all kinds of cargo, especially dry ones.

Flat Rack

Frequently used to transport heavy loads such as construction supplies and equipment, flat rack containers feature collapsible sides. The sides can be folded down flat to carry oversized loads. Some of the items or equipment that such containers can accommodate include large generators, bulldozers, and heavy duty turbines.

Open Top

There might be times when you’ll need to transport tall items but you don’t know where to place them. This is where open top containers come in. With a convertible top, such type can ship materials of any height conveniently.

Just as the name implies, open top containers don’t have a fixed top. They can either be made of steel or a soft top like a tarp. Some heavy items that an open top container can ship include slabs of marble or granite or anything that you’d need a forklift to move.

Tunnel

Tunnel containers provide convenience in loading and unloading different kinds of materials. This type features doors on both ends, making it easier for you to store or take out the items you need to move.

Refrigerated

Refrigerated shipping containers are for goods or items that require to be kept at a standard temperature when being shipped. They are equipped with proper insulation and are designed to have a climate controlled environment. This lets the containers protect and keep the stored items fresh.

Each of these types has its own characteristics and applications. Knowing their differences will help you make an informed decision as to the right type of shipping containers you need for your project. It will also allow your supplier to find the best material for you.

Sources:

16 Types of Container Units and Designs for Shipping Cargo, Marineinsight.com

6 Types of Shipping Containers and Their Uses, Containerauction.com