While containers first appeared in the 50s, when their types and uses weren’t so many varieties. From that time they have invented until now a lot of container loading types for different purposes. They were a response from the shipping and logistics companies to ensure that every type of cargo is treated the way it should. Nowadays, 90% of the world’s cargo is moved by ships, in these exact containers we are talking about. Now it is probably more clear to you why there are so many types of containers. In this easy guide, we will explain the various containers and their use.
What are the different container loading types?
- Dry storage container
- Refrigerated containers
- ISO Tanks
- Flat rack container
- Open top and open side containers
- Half height containers
- Containers for special purposes
Dry storage containers
This is the most common type of container companies use when container shipping from UK to Saudi Arabia, and anywhere else also. They come in different lengths, and people designed them to transport dry goods, as the name suggests. They do not use these containers for moving refrigerated goods or chemicals.
Refrigerated containers
Temperature controlled shipping companies use this intermodal container. Because of these containers, they can transport temperature sensitive cargo. These containers depend on a power unit from land based site or ship. While people transport them on the ground, they power them from diesel generators, like the ones in a truck. Refrigerated containers control temperature ranging from -65°C to 40°C.
ISO Tanks
This is a container that logistics companies in Middle East use to transport liquids. These containers contain a coat of anti corrosive material, to transport liquids. Shippers can also use them for storing dry goods, but they mostly use them for liquids.
Flat rack containers
This oddly shaped container has no top part and only two sides. This makes room for shippers to load heavy items from the top or the sides. Steel is the material of choice for these containers, since they need extra strength and durability.
Open top and open side containers
These containers loading types are basically dry storage containers without the top or sides. Shippers mostly use them for bulky cargo that cannot fit through the end of a standard container. If needed, shippers can attach the sides, in order to protect the merchandise inside from rain, for example.
Half height containers are another one of the container loading types
As the name suggests, they are half the size of the standard container. Shipping companies mostly used them for materials like stones, coal and other items that need easy loading and unloading. Standard spreaders can lift and transport them.
Containers for special purposes
Special purpose containers come in every shape and size, to fit the special purpose cargo. Companies make them according to the needs of a specific item type that needs to be transported. That’s why shippers avoid using them, because they are expensive to make, transport and they fit only for one item type. But sometimes, they are a necessity.
As you can see, there are many container loading types, but also a variety of cargo that needs to be transported. These containers are very important for the normal circulation of goods on a worldwide level, and the normal everyday life of every individual.
