Container Transport Packaging
Within ocean freight, we have several types and types of containers. Do you know which container is most suitable for your goods? And how do you ship your goods?
Containers and Packaging
In the world of container transport, the 20'GP, 40'GP and 40'HC (also called 40'HQ) are the most commonly used container sizes. Below we explain their characteristics:
20'GP (20 feet General Purpose)
- Specially designed to carry heavier cargo such as minerals, metals and machinery.
40'GP (40 feet General Purpose)
- Ideal for bulky loads such as furniture, tires and toys.
40'HC (40 feet High Cube)
- Provides additional space for taller goods thanks to increased height.
Key Insights
Although the volume of a 40ft container is twice that of a 20ft container, the maximum load is similar. Containers typically cannot handle more than 20 tons. This makes a 40ft container ideal for bulky, but not necessarily heavier loads.
Which container and packaging fits your goods?
At Neele-Vat, we regularly get questions about the 'standard' dimensions of shipping containers. But did you know that a 'standard container' does not necessarily mean one fixed size? The term refers to a container that is closed on all sides and has two doors at the front.
Add images for clear specifications and avoid confusion. Whether full container loads (FCL) or partial loads (LCL), our ocean freight services offer cost-effective solutions for shipments of any size.
What are the dimensions of a shipping container?
Below are the outside dimensions of the most commonly used shipping containers:
Container | Length (m) | Width (m) | Height (m) |
---|---|---|---|
6ft | 1,98 | 1,95 | 1,91 |
8ft | 2,44 | 2,20 | 2,26 |
10ft | 2,99 | 2,44 | 2,59 |
20ft | 6,06 | 2,44 | 2,59 |
40ft | 12,2 | 2,44 | 2,59 |
Inside Dimensions of Standard Containers
Below are the interior dimensions and specifications of the most commonly used containers:
Container | Length (m) | Width (m) | Height (m) | Door width (m) | Door height (m) | Empty weight (kg) | Max. load weight (kg) | Content (m³) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
8ft | 2,27 | 2,10 | 2,05 | 2,10 | 1,94 | 950 | 5.050 | 9,9 |
10ft | 2,8 | 2,35 | 2,39 | 2,34 | 2,28 | 1.300 | 8.850 | 15,5 |
20ft | 5,9 | 2,35 | 2,39 | 2,34 | 2,28 | 2.030 | 28.450 | 33,2 |
40ft | 12 | 2,35 | 2,39 | 2,34 | 2,28 | 3.740 | 26.750 | 67,8 |
Packaging: Protecting Your Cargo
Safe and quality packaging protects your cargo during transport, from factory to final destination.
Available options:
- Inner packaging
- Boxes
- Plastic packaging
- Pallets (according to ISPM 15 standard)
- IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers).
Our advice: Provide clear specifications and, if possible, include graphic examples to avoid differences in interpretation.
Different containers are often used for specific purposes:
- 40ft containers: Perfect for international transport by sea or road.
- 20ft containers: Useful for domestic transportation or as storage space.
- 10ft and 8ft containers: Mostly used for storage of materials, stock or contents.
Tip: Consider a 20ft container, as the rental price is often only marginally higher than that of a 10ft container.
Ocean Freight solutions
At Neele-Vat, we provide efficient and reliable handling of your ocean freight. We offer secure shipping, smart cargo management and customized logistics solutions. Whether you have a one-time shipment or regular shipments, we have the right expertise. Request a quote today and discover the benefits of our ocean freight services!