Container shipping is a revolution in the transportation industry, enabling more efficient storage, transportation, and handling of goods. In this article, we explore the history of containerization, the types and dimensions of containers, and their benefits in global logistics.
What is a container?
Container definition
A container is a standardized, weatherproof transport container designed for the protection and safe transport of goods. According to ISO standards, containers must be:
- Impact and load resistance.
- Equipped for safe fastening and manipulation.
- Hermetically sealed for protection against external influences.
The importance of containerization
Container transport accounts for 90% of the world’s goods traffic and enables faster, safer and more economical movement of goods.
History of containerization
Early development
Containerization began in 1956 with the loading of the first container onto the ship IDEAL X , laying the foundation for modern intermodal transport.
Global expansion
Today, there are more than 20 million containers of various sizes and purposes, enabling the transport of goods on all continents.
Container types and dimensions
Division according to purpose
1. Universal containers:
- General purpose containers: storage and transportation of various cargoes.
- Special purpose containers: open/closed containers and platforms.
2. Special containers:
- Isothermal containers: maintenance of thermal insulation conditions.
- Tank containers: transport of liquids and gases.
Division by size
- Small containers: Volume up to 2 m³, ideal for rail transport.
- Medium containers: Volume up to 21 m³, used for raw materials and specific materials.
- Large containers: Known as overseas containers, they are used for dry cargo, bulk cargo, and liquids.
Standard dimensions according to ISO standards
- 20-foot container: 6.06 m long, 2.45 m wide, 2.59 m high.
- 40-foot container: 12.2 m long, 2.45 m wide, 2.59 m high.
Fun fact: A standard 20-foot ISO container can store up to 100 washing machines!
Application of containers in logistics
Classic loads
- Packaged goods: bags, barrels, crates, boxes.
- Cars and household appliances.
Special cargoes
- Bulk cargo: grain, cement.
- Liquids and gases.
- Perishable goods and live animals.
Security requirements when boarding
When loading goods into containers, it is important to:
- Distribute the weight of the load evenly.
- Insure the goods against damage.
Advantages of containerization
- Efficiency: Faster loading and unloading of cargo.
- Standardization: Global application of standard dimensions.
- Security: Protection of goods from damage and theft.
- Reduced costs: Lower transportation costs per unit of cargo.
- Environmentally friendly: Reduction of emissions through transport optimization.
Conclusion
Containerization is essential to modern logistics, enabling the efficient and safe transport of goods around the world. Whether you need to transport small or large quantities,
