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Shipping Container Guide

A practical guide to common container types including 20-foot, 40-foot, High Cube, Reefer and special equipment.

Common Sea-Freight Container Types

EquipmentTypical useApprox. capacityNote
20′ Dry / GPGeneral cargo~33 CBMOften suited to denser cargo
40′ Dry / GPHigher-volume general cargo~67 CBMMore cubic capacity than 20′
40′ High CubeHigh-volume cargo~76 CBMExtra internal height
ReeferTemperature-controlled cargoVariesRequires cargo-specific temperature settings
Open TopOver-height cargoVariesSpecial loading/securing considerations
Flat RackOversized or heavy cargoVariesDepends on dimensions and weight

Actual dimensions and payload limits vary by carrier and equipment. Confirm the exact specification before loading.

20-Foot vs 40-Foot Container

Volume is not the only factor. Weight, cargo profile, stowage, route and pricing can all affect the right equipment choice.

Does Container Type Affect Customs Planning?

Equipment type does not determine customs treatment by itself, but it is part of the shipment data that should remain consistent with the documents and actual cargo.

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