For those in the shipping business, the right container is important for moving goods safely and quickly. Various types of shipping containers are designed to meet specific logistics needs based on the nature of the cargo, environmental conditions, and transport requirements. Let us take a quick glance at the different containers available for transportation. We will also understand their significant uses and know about certain lesser known facts.
Containers We Often See
- Dry Storage Container
Dry storage containers, the most seen in shipping, are also called general-purpose containers. They come in 20 ft, 40 ft, and 45 ft sizes. They’re closed and can resist water, making them good for dry items like clothes, machines, and tech items. But, they can’t control the heat so they aren’t suitable for items that need to be kept cold (a perishable item), or for chemicals needing a refrigerator.
- Refrigerated ISO Containers (Reefers)
Reefers are a must to move material that needs heating or cooling. They can get as cool as -65°C or as warm as +40°C, which is ideal for things like fruits, veggies, meat, and medicine. These containers need electrical power to keep their heat settings while traveling.
- Flat Rack Container
Flat rack containers are built for heavy items like machines and cars. They can be collapsible or non-collapsible and usually are 20 ft or 40 ft long. Their open format means large cargo is easy to load and unload.
- Open Top Container
A lot like dry storage containers, but with no fixed top, open top containers carry large items that a crane needs to pick up or put down. A removable tarp cover protects the cargo from weather.
- ISO Tank Containers
ISO tanks, made just for moving liquids, can also hold dry stuff like sugar. They’re made from materials that don’t rust, and are usually filled to 80% to avoid spillage.
- High Cube Containers
High cube containers are taller, giving more top space for cargo. They’re great for lighter stuff needing more room but not more weight limit.
- Half-Height Containers
Made for heavy stuff like coal or stones, half-height containers sit lower for easier handling and loading.
- Tunnel Containers
With doors at both ends, tunnel containers make loading and unloading easier by letting you in from either side (just like a tunnel).
- Car Carriers
Made just for moving cars and vehicles, car carriers have sides that fold in and out for easy loading and unloading of cars.
- Special Purpose Containers
These various containers are made for particular types of cargo or situations, like drum containers for fragile items or insulated containers for delicate goods.
The Market: Facts and Directions
India’s shipping sector is growing thanks to increased global trade and government efforts to improve port setups. The Indian container market, worth around USD 9.12 billion in 2024, is set to grow 2.7% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is mainly because of:
- More online shopping leading to better shipping solutions.
- Useful trading partnerships giving access to global markets.
- Government ideas like the SagarMala Initiative for port-first growth.
As of FY23, India’s exports were USD 295.21 billion across main areas like engineering goods and oil products, highlighting the big role of container shipping in global trade.
Container Movement at Indian Ports
India has 12 major ports handling lots of container traffic:
- Deendayal Port: Handled 137.56 million tons (17.6% share).
- Paradip Port: Added 17.3% with huge cargo volumes.
- Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT): The biggest major port in India with a 10.7% share.
The smooth running of the shipping sector is essential for economic growth of a nation. It accounts for 95% of India’s trade by volume and 70% by value.
Concluding Thoughts
Picking the right shipping container is important for moving goods safely across different industries. Knowing your cargo’s unique needs will help you choose the right container from the many choices available. As India’s shipping picture transforms, owing to the tech advances and trade boost, staying updated on the containers segment is much-needed for top supply chains.
Are you confident you’re using the right containers for your cargo? The right choice can make or break your shipping efficiency. Explore your options at Box on Wheel and maximise safety and savings. Let’s rethink your container strategy for smarter, more efficient logistics today!
