Types of Shipping Containers You Should Know About

Choosing the right container is of paramount importance. For that matter, it would be significant for reducing the expense and preventing damage to the goods being shipped. Reaching out to us would be ideal for selecting the container, depending on the cargo you want to ship. As the top freight forwarder in Oman, Sohar Shipping has been a trusted shipping partner for leading entities, businesses, and organisations around the country for years.

We have a strong presence around the globe with a close-knit relationship with global players in this field. Explained in this article are the types of shipping containers, which are used in the industry. The basic idea about the containers would be useful for identifying the right type of container for you.

Dry Storage Containers

Dry storage containers are the most common type of container. They are a fully closed type of container, preventing atmospheric elements and dust from getting inside. Then strong and weather proof containers are used for shipping dry items, excluding food, groceries, chemicals, and those requiring temperature-controlled conditions. Dry storage containers are available in varying lengths for clients to choose from. 10, 20, or 40-foot containers can be chosen based on the volume of cargo to be shipped.

Flat Rack Container

Flat rack containers are containers without top panels and foldable side panels. The sides can be folded to make it a rack. The opening on the top allows the placement of goods from above. These containers, which are normally made of steel, are 20 or 40 feet long. It is also available with additional wall panels that can be connected to the frame. Check out this type of container if you want to ship tall equipment, oversized cargo, vehicles, etc.

Open Top Container

This type can be called a convertible container. The open top type containers have plastic roofing to protect the cargo from rain, sun, and dust. The plastic top can be secured using ropes. Rings on the upper/ lower sides, as well as, on the corner posts, can be used to tie the cargo and secure it properly. Equipment, accessories, and cargo of any height can be shipped using open-top type containers, which are available in 20 and 40-foot lengths.

Open Side Storage Container

As the name indicates, the side can be opened in the case of the open side storage container. Wide items that cannot enter through the normal container entrance can be loaded by opening the side panel.  Available in 20 feet and 40 feet lengths, an open-side storage container might be ideal for transporting wide items like some machinery parts.

ISO Reefer Container

A reefer or refrigerated container is ideal for shipping products that require a temperature-controlled or refrigerated environment. It is used by firms that ship perishable goods. Both 20 feet and 40 feet-long reefer containers are available. The dimension to select would depend on the volume of goods to be transported. The external power supply is used for the onboard refrigeration system. Meat, meat products, vegetables, and fruits are shipped using ISO reefer containers.

Half Height Containers

Half-height containers are half the size of a normal container. Used for dense cargo like coal, sand, and stones, the dimensional specifications help in easy loading and unloading. The design and dimensions make this type of container efficient for handling heavier loads than a normal container. Made of steel, half-height containers are proven to have better strength. Half-height containers are normally used by entities in the fields of coal, stone, and sand export.

High Cube Containers

High-cube containers are about 1 foot taller than dry storage containers. This type of container is normally available in 40 and 45-foot lengths. The increased height and length allow the transportation of more cargo than a general-purpose container. Opt for a high cube container if the cargo to be shipped cannot be contained in a general-purpose container.

Tunnel Container

The tunnel container resembles a tunnel with both sides open. Since it has open ends, the tunnel container allows quick loading and unloading of cargo. These are available in 20 and 40-foot lengths. High cube tunnel containers, which have an increased height and length up to 45 feet, can be preferred when the volume of the cargo is more.

Double Door Container

Double-door containers have two doors that help in the easy loading and unloading of goods. Available in 20 and 40-foot lengths normally, this container with a wide door option can be considered if the cargo is wider than normal. Construction materials including iron, steel, and metal beams, are transported using this type of container.

Insulated Containers

Insulated or thermal containers are preferred for transporting cargo at a high temperature. The specially designed cargo container, using specific material that can withstand high temperatures, that has thermal insulation, is used for long-distance shipment in a protected environment.

The types of shipping containers are not limited to the aforesaid. Other types of shipping containers available include tanks, cargo storage roll containers, car carriers, intermediate bulk shift containers, drums, and special purpose containers.

Sohar Shipping – Your Trusted Shipping Support in Oman

Sohar Shipping has been the leading freight forwarder and shipping solutions expert in the Sultanate of Oman for decades. We render expert advice, consistent support, constant guidance, and shipment of cargo to any location anywhere in the world.

Supported by a team of experienced professionals, we deliver the best service to our clients. A flawless shipping process aided by advanced digital solutions is what we offer to our esteemed customers. Real-time information regarding the location of the cargo, delivery of the cargo in the scheduled time frame, and transparent dealings have been the distinctive factors that have made us the most preferred shipping agency in Oman.

We have established well-knit connectivity around the globe by joining hands with all the leading shipping and logistics entities around the world. This seamless connectivity has been pivotal in ensuring timely delivery, advanced services, and foolproof shipping solutions from Sohar Shipping.

Drop us a message or connect with us to discuss the shipping of cargo to any destination in the world. We assure you of a reliable and committed service.