Dimensions of sea containers: dhy does knowing your dimensions matter?
In today's globalised world, where the pace of international trade is constantly increasing, logistics must not only be fast, but above all precise. This is why sea containers have such an important role to play - they are not just steel structures used to transport cargo, but well thought-out storage systems that have to be tailored to the characteristics of the goods being transported. Knowledge of parameters such as dimensions of sea containers is an absolute necessity for any company involved in exporting, importing or shipping.
Matching the type and size of container to the type of cargo has a direct impact on many key aspects of the transport process. First and foremost, it affects:
- Security of goods - A properly selected container protects the cargo from mechanical damage, moisture, temperature changes or shocks during the sea journey. In the case of sensitive products - e.g. clothing, electronic devices or foodstuffs - the choice of a refrigerated container or clothing cabinet can determine the success of the entire delivery.
- Efficient use of space - Knowing the exact dimensions of the container (length, width, height and volume) allows loading to be optimised. This avoids empty spaces, which directly translates into a reduction in freight costs. Companies offering good shipping services often propose space utilisation calculations to clients in order to reduce the unit cost of transport as much as possible.
- Lower logistics costs - Transporting an oversized container can generate unnecessary costs, as can having to transport cargo that is inadequately secured. Knowing the dimensions and capabilities of a particular type of container - such as a flat rack for oversized cargo - allows logistics to be planned in an efficient and financially predictable way.
- Compliance with forwarding and customs standards - each forwarding service involves the need to comply with international standards. Discrepancies in the type of container, its loading or its declared volume can lead to delays, penalties or problems at customs clearance.
That is why in professional shipping companies Knowing and correctly applying container specifications is an everyday occurrence. Experts analyse not only the goods themselves, but also the route, port requirements, customs regulations and loading method - all to ensure maximum transport efficiency and safety.
In practice, this means that the choice of container cannot be random. Does your cargo require top access (open top container), precise temperature control (refrigerated container) or perhaps a high load capacity (transport platform)? All this requires knowledge and experience of sea freight forwarding services.
Types and dimensions of sea containers
In the world of international transport, the diversity of cargo requires finely tuned logistics solutions. This is why there are many types of containers to meet the needs of specific industries and types of goods. The right choice of container is the basis for effective shippingand knowledge of their dimensions helps to accurately plan the entire transport process - from loading to customs clearance to final delivery.
Dimensions of sea containers are standardised in accordance with international ISO standards, allowing them to be used not only for sea transport, but also for rail and road (so-called intermodal transport). The most popular units are 20- and 40-foot containers, although there are also other specialised formats depending on requirements.
Below are The 7 most common types of shipping containersused by shipping companies as part of comprehensive sea freight forwarding services. Typical dimensions, design and applications are discussed for each.
Each of these containers has been designed with a specific purpose in mind - whether your cargo is delicate clothing, industrial machinery, fresh fruit or steel structures. Knowing these parameters is not just a technical detail - it is the foundation of the good shippingwhich minimises risk, reduces costs and increases operational efficiency.
Standard containers (Dry Van) - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
Standard containers, also known as Dry Vanis the most versatile and widely used type of container in the maritime transport. Their construction - closed, with solid walls, floor and roof - guarantees excellent protection for a variety of cargoes from moisture, dirt or mechanical damage during a long voyage.
These are sea containers mainly adapted for transporting so-called dry cargo, i.e. cargo that does not require temperature control or special storage conditions. In practice, this means goods packed in cardboard boxes, crates, sacks, bales, pallets, as well as white goods, furniture, industrial components and loose products packed in individual packages.
Due to its popularity and accessibility, Dry Van containers form the basis of sea freight forwarding services. They are used by large companies as well as smaller exporters and importers, for whom an economical, safe and easy-to-use mode of transport is important.
They are available in two basic variants:
Dimensions of standard shipping containers:
| Container type | External length | Width | Height | Volume (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | 6,06 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m | approx. 33 m³ |
| 40-foot | 12,19 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m | approx. 67 m³ |
Sea freight forwarding companiessuch as venax.net, very often recommend standard containers as the default solution for most shipments. They are easy to load, compatible with most port terminals and suitable for intermodal transport - meaning they can be easily transferred from sea to land without the need to transship goods.
If you care about good shipping - that combines safety, availability and favourable costs - the Dry Van container will be the ideal starting point.
Flat rack containers - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
Flat rack containers are specialised units that are designed to carry heavy, bulky and oversized goods. They are distinguished by their distinctive design - they have a solid steel frame and heavy-duty floor, while they lack side walls and a roof. There are fixed or folding end boards at the ends to stabilise the load.
Such a container enables maritime transport The container can accommodate loads that would not fit into conventional standard containers. Thanks to the lack of side walls, free access to the interior is possible - both from the side and from above - which significantly facilitates loading and unloading with heavy machinery, cranes or gantries.
Maritime freight forwarding using flat rack containers is the ideal solution for the industrial, construction, automotive and energy sectors. These containers most commonly carry:
- construction and industrial machinery,
- pressure vessels and pipes,
- parts of the road infrastructure,
- steel and structural components,
- heavy-duty vehicles and process containers.
Dimensions of flat rack containers:
| Container type | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | 6,06 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m |
| 40-foot | 12,19 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m |
Dimensions of sea containers flat racks comply with ISO standards, allowing them to be used not only in maritime transportbut also in road and rail transport. This enables efficient intermodal transportwithout having to transfer the goods between modes of transport.
Choosing forwarding serviceIt is advisable to consult specialists - shipping companiessuch as venax.net, they carefully analyse each case in order to select the right container for the dimensions and weight of the specific load. Good sea freight forwarding is not only freight, but also advice, security and cost optimisation.
Open Top containers - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
Open Top containers is a unique solution in the world of maritime transportThe container is designed for the transport of goods of non-standard height or which require loading from above. The lack of a rigid roof allows the goods to be easily placed in the container using a crane or overhead crane. The top is protected by a flexible, waterproof tarpaulin that can be partially or fully removed.
This type sea container is indispensable for loads such as:
- high-rise industrial machinery,
- steel structures, silos, tanks,
- infrastructure components (e.g. electricity poles),
- building elements of unusual dimensions.
Maritime freight forwarding using Open Top containers is widely used by customers in the construction, industrial and energy sectors. This solution avoids the cost of specialised platforms and allows cargo that protrudes above a standard height to be safely secured.
Open Top container dimensions:
Open Top containers are available in standard lengths: 20- and 40-footers. Their external dimensions are similar to Dry Van containers:
| Container type | External length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | 6,06 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m |
| 40-foot | 12,19 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m |
The difference: Instead of a rigid roof, the Open Top container has a tarpaulin and an opening that allows vertical loading. As a result, these containers offer greater manoeuvring freedom for irregularly shaped cargo.
From the point of view of shipping company, knowledge of and proper use of Open Top containers is the key to efficient implementation of oversize transport. Sea freight forwarding services, which include this type of container, give the customer greater flexibility and the opportunity to optimise the loading process, even in ports with limited infrastructure.
If your cargo doesn't fit into a classic container - an Open Top container is the best choice. Get help from professionals who will advise, secure and organise your transport from A to Z.
Platform containers - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
Platform containers, also known as platform containersis a unique type of container used in maritime transport, designed for the transport of very heavy, bulky or oversized loads that cannot be contained in a traditional container. Their greatest asset is their completely open construction - no walls or roof - and their extremely strong steel floor capable of carrying enormous point loads.
This type sea container is primarily used in:
- transport of industrial and construction machinery,
- transporting marine engines and turbine components,
- relocation of prefabricated steel structures,
- logistics of large-scale infrastructure components.
Thanks to the open design, loading is possible from all sides - both from the side and from the top - making the platform container one of the most flexible solutions available in the shipping. Its use allows for the transport of cargo that exceeds the standard dimensions of a container, while maintaining complete safety and compliance with shipping standards.
Dimensions of platform containers:
| Container type | Length | Payload |
|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | 6,06 m | up to 30 t |
| 40-foot | 12,19 m | up to 40 t |
Although dimensions of sea containers Platform-type containers do not differ greatly in length from standard containers, but their design allows them to carry much heavier and bulkier goods. Their load-carrying capacity and the possibility of tailoring the protection individually to the load make them indispensable for special tasks.
Professional shipping company will always match the container type to the specific goods being transported. In the case of platform containers, the correct distribution of the centre of gravity and the securing of the load are crucial - therefore forwarding service should also include a technical analysis and a loading plan.
For clients looking for an effective way to maritime transport goods of extreme weight or irregular shape, the platform container is a solution that combines safety, functionality and precise logistics.
Refrigerated containers (Reefer) - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
Refrigerated containers, also known as Reefersis a specialised type of shipping containers designed for the carriage of goods requiring strictly controlled temperatures. They are equipped with a state-of-the-art cooling, heating and thermal insulation system that enables the right microclimate to be maintained inside the transport unit throughout the voyage.
They are most commonly used in maritime transport food products - such as meat, fish, dairy products, fruit and vegetables - as well as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and chemicals. With built-in refrigeration units and an optional ventilation system, the refrigerated containers provide optimum conditions for transporting goods sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
This type of container is indispensable for industries that operate in global markets and require a cold chain from production to the final destination. Maritime freight forwarding using Reefers allows the highest level of biosecurity and quality of the transported goods to be guaranteed.
Dimensions of refrigerated shipping containers:
| Container type | Interior (L x W x H) | Operating temperature range |
|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | 5.4 m x 2.3 m x 2.3 m | -25°C to +25°C |
| 40-foot | 11.5 m x 2.3 m x 2.3 m | -25°C to +25°C |
Although dimensions of sea containers of the refrigerated type are similar to standard Dry Van containers, their use is much more advanced. The walls of the Reefer containers are filled with special insulating foam, which protects the interior from weather conditions. In addition, the ability to set the exact temperature and the options for recording temperature and humidity data enable even the most stringent quality and sanitary standards to be met.
Sea freight forwarding companiessuch as venax.net, offer comprehensive sea freight forwarding services using refrigerated containers, covering not only the transport itself, but also real-time temperature monitoring, phytosanitary documentation and customs support. This type of forwarding service is essential when the quality and freshness of the products at the final delivery stage are at stake.
In an era of increasing demand for the fast and safe transportation of food and pharmaceuticals, Reefer containers are an investment in quality, reputation and customer satisfaction.
High Cube containers - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
Elevated containers, also known as High Cube, is an expanded version of the classic standard containers, offering an additional 30 cm of usable height. Although they may appear to be a minor modification, in practice the increased volume significantly expands the logistical possibilities, especially for bulky but relatively lightweight cargo.
Sea containers High Cube types are an excellent choice for transporting, among other things:
- furniture and furnishings,
- light steel and aluminium structures,
- textiles and confectionery,
- home appliances and consumer electronics packaged collectively,
- goods on pallets with increased height.
Industries benefiting from sea freight forwarding services, such as e-commerce, contract logistics or consumer goods manufacturers, particularly value the High Cube for its ability to carry higher volumes in a single transport cycle, resulting in cost optimisation and more efficient use of loading space.
Elevated container dimensions:
| Container type | External length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40-foot HC | 12,19 m | 2,44 m | 2,89 m |
| 45-foot HC | 13,71 m | 2,44 m | 2,89 m |
Compared to the classic Dry Van containers, dimensions of sea containers The High Cube gives the user up to 10% more loading space. This is ideal for situations where you want more volume without having to increase the number of containers.
From a technical point of view, High Cube containers are compatible with most transport systems and port infrastructures, making them seamless to handle. Sea freight forwarding companiessuch as venax.net, often recommend them to customers who need to transport a large but light load in the cheapest possible way.
Deciding on forwarding service with the High Cube container, you not only gain more space, but also greater operational flexibility. It is a solution that fits perfectly with modern market needs - fast, reliable and cost-optimised.
Clothes wardrobe containers (GOH) - dimensions of sea containers
Application:
GOH containers (Garment On Hanger), commonly known as containers cupboardsis a specialised type shipping containersdesigned for the safe transport of garments in a hanging position. Their design has been developed for companies in the textile, fashion and apparel industries who want to guarantee their customers the highest quality of their goods - without creasing, deformation or damage caused during transport.
The interior of the GOH container is equipped with string, rod or hybrid systems that allow hundreds of garments to be hung - on both plastic and metal hangers. Thanks to this maritime transport becomes not only secure, but also extremely convenient from the point of view of wholesale logistics and retail distribution.
Sea freight forwarding services using GOH containers are particularly popular for transport:
- suits, dresses and luxury clothing,
- seasonal collections for fashion chains,
- confections requiring presentation immediately after delivery,
- textiles for stationary shops and showrooms.
GOH container dimensions:
| Container type | External length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-foot | 6,06 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m |
| 40-foot | 12,19 m | 2,44 m | 2,59 m |
Although dimensions of sea containers GOHs are similar to classic Dry Van containers, their logistical value is significantly higher. The ability to deliver garments ready for sale, without the need for additional ironing or repackaging, reduces time to market and lowers warehouse handling costs.
Sea freight forwarding companiessuch as venax.net, offer comprehensive forwarding services for the fashion industry - from picking up the shipment at the manufacturer, to securing the collection in the GOH container, to delivery to distribution centres or shops. It is the ideal solution for brands that value quality, image and punctuality.
If you care about shippingthat takes care not only of the goods, but also of their visual appearance - GOH containers are an unbeatable choice.
How to choose the right container for your cargo - dimensions of sea containers
The choice of container depends on several key factors:
- type and sensitivity of the commodity,
- weight and dimensions of the load,
- need for temperature control,
- the method of loading and unloading,
- destination and customs requirements.
Professional shipping companiessuch as venax.net, they will help select the best solution, providing full logistical support at every stage of transport.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions - dimensions of sea containers
What are the standard dimensions of a 40-foot container?
The 40' container is approximately 12.19 m long, 2.44 m wide and 2.59 m high.
Can I transport food products in a container?
Yes, refrigerated containers (Reefer) are used for this, maintaining a constant temperature.
Which container should I choose for transporting machinery?
Flat rack or platform containers are the most common choice - it all depends on the dimensions and weight of the machine.
Are open top containers safe?
Yes - the load is secured with a tarpaulin and appropriate straps, and crane access facilitates safe loading.
What is a High Cube container?
This is an elevated version of the standard container, offering more vertical space.
Do you offer assistance in selecting a container?
Of course - just contact us and we will advise you on the best option.
Summary - dimensions of sea containers
Knowledge of dimensions of sea containers and their proper matching to the type of load is the key to efficient and safe transport. Good sea freight forwarding is one that will not only transport your goods, but will also take care of their safety, logistics, customs clearance and full operational support.
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🔗 Find out more: Wikipedia - Intermodal container
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