Different Types of Special Shipping Containers and Usage

● 2026-10-13 ● - ● Leave me a message

As a special shipping containers factory with more than 10 years,Container Family has cooperated with various brands to produce high-qualiy containers to meet different demands.For freight forwarders, middlemen and end-users, choosing the right container is of utmost importance.

Considerations for Selecting Right Containers

Choosing the right container can significantly reduce logistics costs, shorten transportation time and ensure the safety of goods. Here are some factors you need to consider during the selection process.

①Efficiency

Some containers are specifically designed for certain products. For instance, for extremely large and long goods, flat rack containers can be chosen, while open top containers are suitable for transporting minerals, bulk cargo, etc., which can significantly enhance the loading and unloading efficiency and let your business run smoothly.

②Cost

Cost is also an important factor that you need to consider. Select the appropriate size to avoid the high costs resulting from space waste. However, if you anticipate using this container for an extended period, you should consider its durability. In the long run, the maintenance costs of durable shipping containers will be lower.

③Safety

It is necessary to be equipped with a sturdy anti-theft lock. If you are transporting special goods, you must consider safety. For example, using the reefer container to transport fresh/frozen goods, and a tank container to transport chemical liquids/gases, etc. This is an indisputable fact.

Types of Special Containers and Usage

①Flat Rack Container

Specification:

The common sizes are 20ft and 40ft.The container has no side and roof panels,are usually used for the safe shipment of oversized and extremely heavy cargo.There are two types——collapsible and non-collapsible models,for collapsible flat rack containers, the end walls can be fully folded, making them easy to store and stack. On the other hand, the non-collapsible models are much more sturdy.Both of them allow cranes or forklifts to load goods from top or sides.

Usage:

It is widely used for large machinery,vehicles,construction materials,and other oversized items.The flat rack container is equipped with binding points and straps, which are used to ensure the safety of the goods during transportation.

②Open Top Container

Specification:

The open top container Looks like a standard shipping container,but there is a detachable tarpaulin cover instead of the solid roof,which allow you load goods from top directly.There are lashing rings insides to fix cargoThe common sizes are 20ft and 40ft.

Usage:

It is a good choice for too tall and bulk materials,such as tall machinery,bulk minerals,scrap metal,timber,etc.It should be noted that the waterproof and anti-theft properties of the containers are not very good.

③Half-height Container

Specification:

The height of the semi-height container is only half that of a standard container, with a lower center of gravity, making it easier to be lifted. The open-top design makes it easy to load goods from above, highly efficient, and is usually equipped with drainage holes.

Usage:

For those goods that are heavy in weight and large in size but do not require full height, the half-height container is an ideal choice. You can use it to transport minerals, coal, sand, scrap metal and construction waste, etc.

④Reefer Container

Specification:

The common sizes are 20ft and 40ft.This container is equipped with an internal cooling system that can maintain a specific temperature range. Generally, the temperature can be controlled between -25℃ and +25℃.There is a heat insulation layer insides, which ensures that the cold air does not escape.

Usage:

The refrigerated containers are mainly used for transporting items that require low-temperature preservation. For example, chilled fresh food, flowers, medicines, vaccines, chemical preparations, dairy products, fresh agricultural products, and so on.

⑤Tank Container

Specification:

The most common size of a tank container is 20 feet. It consists of installing a cylindrical storage tank within a steel frame, which makes it convenient for transportation and stacking. The storage tank is constructed from stainless steel, which is highly resistant to corrosion. It is also equipped with safety valves and a pressure release system to ensure transportation safety and product quality.

Usage:

The container can carry liquids, gases and powders. It can also be used to transport hazardous chemical items such as chemicals, solvents, gasoline, etc., as well as beverages like wine and juice.

Container Family is a leading manufacturer in special shipping container industry,we are committed to tailoring solutions based on customer needs. Whether you require side-opening containers, storage containers, or flat pack containers, we will be your reliable partner. Welcome your inquiry and look forward to a long-term cooperation with you.

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