Types of Containers in Cargo Transport: A Guide to Types and Uses

Types of Containers in Cargo Transport and Their Importance

Types of containers in cargo transport are one of the most important foundations of modern logistics. Since their standardization in the 1950s, containers have revolutionized global trade – goods can be transported faster, more safely, and more cost-effectively than ever before.

Today, more than 90% of global trade is transported in containers, and choosing the right type directly affects safety, cost, and delivery speed. The wrong container choice can lead to additional costs, damaged goods, or delays, while the right choice ensures savings and greater efficiency.

U ovom vodiču donosimo pregled glavnih vrsta kontejnera, njihove standardne dimenzije, primjenu u različitim industrijama te praktične savjete kako odabrati pravi kontejner za svoju pošiljku.

What is a container and why is it standardized?

A container is a steel box of standardized dimensions used for transporting goods by sea, rail, and road. Standardization (ISO standards) has made it possible for the same container to travel across different modes of transport without additional opening or repacking of goods.

This is called intermodal transport, and it is what makes modern logistics efficient.

The most commonly used sizes are:

• 40ft kontejner (FEU)
• 20ft container (TEU)

Main types of containers in cargo transport

Containers differ in construction, capacity, and the type of goods they are intended for. Each type has its advantages as well as limitations.

Standard container (Dry Van)

Most commonly used – employed in about 80% of all transports.

• Dimensions: 20ft and 40ft.
• Payload: 28–30 tons.
  
• Application: palletized goods, electronics, textiles, furniture, industrial equipment.
  

Why use it?
Dry containers are universal and available in all ports. If the goods do not require special conditions (cooling, ventilation, or special handling), this is the optimal solution.

Reefer container (refrigerated)

Equipped with a refrigeration system that maintains temperatures from -30 °C to +30 °C.

• Dimensions: 20ft and 40ft (including high cube variants).
  
• Application: food products (meat, fruit, vegetables), pharmaceutical products, chemicals.
  

Why use it?
A reefer is indispensable for temperature-sensitive goods. If the cold chain is disrupted, the losses can be enormous.

Open Top container

Container with a removable roof, ideal for goods that are loaded from above by crane.

• Dimensions: 20ft and 40ft.
• Application: construction materials, machinery, irregularly shaped cargo.
  

Why use it?
An Open Top solves the problem of large or unusual cargo that cannot fit through standard doors.

4. Flat Rack container

Open on the sides, sometimes with collapsible ends

• Dimensions: 20ft and 40ft.
• Application: vehicles, construction machinery, industrial equipment.
  

Why use it?
A Flat Rack is the solution for heavy or oversized cargo that requires a specialized approach.

5. Tank container

Cylindrical tank inside a steel frame.

• Capacity: 21,000–26,000 liters.
• Application: liquids, gases, chemicals.
  

Why use it?
Tank containers ensure safe transport of hazardous and liquid substances, making them essential for the chemical and food industries.

6. High Cube container

Looks like a standard container but is 30 cm taller.

• Dimensions: 20ft and 40ft, height 2.9 m.
  
• Application: high-volume goods – plastics, paper, lightweight products.
  

Why use it?
High Cube allows more cargo to be transported within the same container length – ideal for light but bulky shipments.

7. Special containers

Customized for specific industries:

• Grain containers – equipped with openings for unloading bulk cargo.
  
• Side-opening containers – provide easier access to goods.
  
• Waste and recycling containers – used in the waste management industry.
  

More : Hapag-Lloyd – Types of Containers

Standard container dimensions

The most commonly used are:

• 40ft (FEU): 12.2 × 2.44 × 2.59 m, volume 67 m³, payload up to 28,000 kg.
• 20ft (TEU): 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m, volume 33 m³, payload up to 28,000 kg.
  

Advantages of container transport

Container transport is the most popular mode of transport because it offers numerous benefits:

• Global availability: used in all international ports.
  
• Safety: goods are enclosed and protected.
  
• Efficiency: easy transshipment and intermodal flexibility.
  
• Cost savings: especially for larger quantities.
  
  

Challenges in container transport

Of course, there are also challenges:

• Rising transport costs – global disruptions affect prices.
• Demurrage and storage fees – occur if the container is not picked up on time. See more at: Demurrage fee and how to avoid it.
  
  
• Port delays – due to congestion or customs procedures.
  
  
• Container damage – costs often fall on the user.

FAQ: Sve što trebate znati o kontejnerima u transportu

1. What is the difference between a 20ft and a 40ft container?


A 20ft container (TEU) is smaller, with a volume of about 33 m³, and is ideal for heavy, compact goods (e.g., metals). A 40ft container (FEU) has a volume of about 67 m³, making it a better choice for lighter but bulkier cargo (e.g., furniture, paper). Both can carry about 28 tons, but the difference lies in their cubic capacity.

2. When should you choose a reefer container instead of a standard one?
A reefer container is used when the cargo is temperature-sensitive—such as fresh food, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals. It maintains a constant temperature throughout the journey, whereas a standard container only protects against weather conditions and theft.

3. What does a high cube container mean and who is it intended for?
A high cube container is 30 cm taller than a standard one. It is used for light but bulky shipments—such as plastics, paper, or clothing. If you often “pay for air” because your cargo takes up a lot of space but isn’t heavy, a high cube can be a more cost-effective option.

4. How to choose the right type of container for your shipment?

The best way is to define three things: (1) type of goods (perishable, liquid, standard), (2) volume and weight of the cargo, and (3) loading method. If you are unsure, a freight forwarder can recommend the optimal type and help prevent extra costs (e.g., demurrage or excess fees).

5. What is the difference between demurrage and storage fees?


Demurrage is a fee charged by the shipping company if a container stays in the port longer than agreed. Storage fees are charged by the port or terminal for using storage space. Both costs arise from delays, but they are charged by different parties.

6. What is the lifespan of a container?

On average, 10–15 years, but it depends on maintenance and intensity of use. In global transport, containers are often retired earlier because they become economically unviable or fail to meet safety standards.

7. Can containers also be used for storage?


Yes, many companies use old containers as temporary storage. Dry containers are the most common choice because they provide an enclosed, secure space for goods or equipment and can be placed almost anywhere.

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Conclusion

Types of containers in cargo transport are tailored to different industries and needs. From standard dry containers to special tanks or reefers, choosing the right container is crucial for shipment safety, cost optimization, and fast delivery.

For freight forwarders, carriers, and companies operating globally, understanding containers means making better decisions and avoiding unnecessary costs.