A shipping container is a standardised unit used to transport and protect cargo during loading, transit, and unloading. It can be transferred between vessels, trucks, and trains without unpacking its contents at each stage.

A 20-foot container is smaller and suits mid-size shipments, while a 40-foot container offers approximately double the internal volume. The choice depends on cargo volume, weight, and stacking method — not volume alone.

The standard 20-foot container has a theoretical internal volume of approximately 33 CBM (cubic metres). Actual usable capacity may be lower depending on cargo shape, packaging, and stacking method.

The standard 40-foot container has a theoretical internal volume of approximately 67 CBM. Practical usable volume may vary depending on cargo nature, packaging, and loading method.

A 40ft High Cube is approximately 30 cm taller than the standard 40ft (2.9 m vs. 2.6 m internal height), providing up to approximately 76 CBM of internal volume. It is suitable for cargo requiring additional height or volume.

A Reefer container is equipped with a temperature-control system and is used for cargo that requires refrigeration, freezing, or a specific temperature during transit — such as food, pharmaceuticals, and temperature-sensitive products.

Open Top: a container with an openable or tarpaulin-covered roof, used for cargo that cannot be loaded through the doors due to height or handling method. Flat Rack: a container with open or foldable sides, used for oversized machinery and equipment.

A standard Dry Container is the most commonly used container type for general cargo that is not temperature-sensitive, such as packaged goods, machinery, tools, and industrial products.

Container selection should be based on: cargo nature, dimensions and volume, weight, refrigeration requirements, loading and unloading method, and cargo-specific restrictions and carrier instructions. Do not select based on size alone.

FCL (Full Container Load): the entire container is dedicated to your shipment. LCL (Less than Container Load): your cargo is consolidated with other shipments and you pay only for your volume or weight. FCL suits large shipments; LCL reduces cost for smaller cargo.