(Newswire.net — November 2, 2021) — You cannot underestimate the importance of seaborne cargo in the global economy. According to Statista, the value of ocean freight in 2019 was a whopping $14 trillion, out of which 60% was carried in containers. Even though containerization has simplified global trade greatly, container shipping has become more complicated. It is because shippers demand different kinds of containers to accommodate a wide range of cargo, each with its set of requirements for safe and quick transport. Some handy tips on choosing the right sea cargo container, one of the most important elements in ocean freight:
Common Container Types
You must use the right kind of container to ship your cargo. The most popular types of containers include:
Dry storage container: Conventionally made from steel or aluminum, these containers are meant for transporting dry cargo. They come in two sizes – 20 feet and 40 feet and have doors on only one side. The 20 container dimensions are 20′ long x 8′ wide x 8′ 6” high. You can stack eight such containers in the yard or the ship.
Flat rack container: These containers have sides that can be folded flat and stacked when empty for easy transport. These containers are ideal for transporting cars or other vehicles.
Open side container: These containers have one side that can be opened completely for better access while loading and unloading. Typically, shippers use open-side containers for transporting agricultural produce.
Open top container: As the name suggests, this kind of container does not have a roof, and shippers use them to carry odd-size cargo, like machinery.
Refrigerated containers: Shippers use these insulated containers equipped with compressors and generators to keep the contents cool to avoid spoiling. Shippers use these containers to transport perishable goods like medicines, flowers, and food. Some of the newer versions have a system for filling the inside of the container with carbon dioxide to prevent ripening food from spoiling.
Exclusive vs. Sharing Containers
If you have a cargo load that will fill a container, you should choose the Full Container Load (FCL) method. The container has only your cargo and is sealed after loading and opened only after it reaches its destination, which reduces the chances of damage and pilferage and ensures faster delivery. However, if you do not have enough cargo, it can be expensive. It is the reason why the Less-than-Container Load (LCL) has been devised. The method allows several shippers to share the same container to make a full load. The method is cheaper, but the delivery is usually slower.
Conclusion
There are many consequences of choosing the wrong type of container or one that does not fit your requirements. One of the top consequences is that you risk damage to your valuable cargo if the container is dropped because it is overweight or the cargo is unevenly distributed. Further, improper stowing, packing, or incorrect declaration of the cargo can result in accidental fires, temperature damage, or leaks. Your cargo may also be contaminated by wet surfaces, debris on the floor, and other shared cargo. Insects and vermin may also infest your cargo and spoil it.