What Are the Different Types of Containers and Which One Should You Choose?
At 7ConBooking, we understand that choosing the right container is key to moving your goods safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Whether you’re shipping electronics, food, machinery, or bulky equipment, we make it simple to find the perfect container for your needs.
Here’s a quick overview of the most common types of containers we offer — each designed for different cargo needs. We’ve simplified the details so you can make the best choice without the technical jargon!
1. Standard Dry Container (General Purpose)
Best for: Everyday, reliable shipping of general goods
Sizes:
Maximum Payload:
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20ft: 22,000 kg
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40ft: 27,000 kg
Use: The most common and affordable option. Perfect for non-perishable products like electronics, furniture, or clothing. These containers are ideal for everyday shipments that don’t need temperature control.
Benefits:
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Great for a wide range of goods
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Easy to find and cost-effective
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Most widely used container type
2. High Cube Container
Best for: Bulky, lightweight items that need extra height
Sizes:
Maximum Payload:
-
40ft: 26,000 kg
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45ft: 29,000 kg
Use: Need extra space for tall or voluminous cargo? These containers are perfect for larger items like furniture or machinery that don’t weigh much but take up a lot of space.
Benefits:
3. Reefer (Refrigerated) Container
Best for: Keeping perishable goods cool or frozen
Sizes:
Maximum Payload:
-
20ft: 22,000 kg
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40ft: 27,000 kg
Use: For products that need to stay fresh, like food, medicine, or certain chemicals. With its own built-in refrigeration system, a reefer container keeps your goods at just the right temperature during transit.
Benefits:
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Perfect for temperature-sensitive items
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Controls both temperature and humidity
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Ensures freshness for long-distance shipments
4. Flat Rack Container
Best for: Shipping heavy or oversized cargo
Sizes:
Maximum Payload:
-
20ft: 30,000 kg
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40ft: 30,000 kg
Use: For large machinery, vehicles, or equipment that can't fit into a standard container. The open design makes it easy to load and unload big items.
Benefits:
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Perfect for oversized cargo
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No walls, making loading/unloading easier
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Ideal for heavy machinery, vehicles, and construction materials
5. Open Top Container
Best for: Cargo that’s too tall or needs top access
Sizes:
Maximum Payload:
-
20ft: 22,000 kg
-
40ft: 27,000 kg
Use: For items that are too tall to fit inside a standard container or need to be loaded from the top (like large machinery or building materials).
Benefits:
6. Tank Container
Best for: Transporting liquids (chemicals, oils, and food-grade liquids)
Size:
Maximum Payload:
Use: Designed specifically for liquids, this container keeps your goods secure and safe during transit, whether you're shipping chemicals, fuel, or beverages.
Benefits:
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Safe transport of liquids
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Meets international safety standards
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Reliable for hazardous or food-grade liquids
7. Ventilated Container
Best for: Goods that need airflow during transport (such as agricultural products)
Sizes:
Maximum Payload:
-
20ft: 22,000 kg
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40ft: 27,000 kg
Use: For fresh produce like fruits or vegetables that need good air circulation to stay fresh during long-distance travel.
Benefits:
How to Choose the Right Container for Your Shipment
When choosing a container, think about:
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What type of cargo you’re shipping (perishable? bulky? liquid?)
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The size and weight of your goods (do they need more space?)
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Special requirements (temperature control? easy loading?)
At 7ConBooking, we make it easy for you to select the perfect container based on your cargo needs. With our platform, you can quickly compare all your options and get the best rates for your shipment!
Key Takeaways
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Standard Dry Containers are for general goods.
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High Cube Containers give you extra height for bulky items.
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Reefers are perfect for keeping perishables fresh.
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Flat Racks make oversized cargo easy to ship.
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Open Tops let you load tall items from the top.
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Tank Containers are made for liquids.
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Ventilated Containers are best for agricultural goods.
By understanding your cargo, selecting the right container ensures your goods arrive safely, on time, and at the best possible cost. And with 7ConBooking, we make it simple to find the ideal container for every shipment!
Why Choose 7ConBooking?
We provide you with instant access to all the different shipping container options in one easy-to-use platform, helping you save time and money while making the right choices for your business.
Ready to ship? Sign up now to start booking with ease!