Shipping containers come in various types and sizes to accommodate different cargo needs. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Dry Storage Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet, 40 feet, and 45 feet

Uses: General cargo such as boxes, pallets, and loose goods.

Features: Completely enclosed, weatherproof, with a rigid roof, sidewalls, and floor.

2. Flat Rack Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Heavy machinery, vehicles, and oversized equipment.

Features: Collapsible sides or completely flat, without a roof.

3. Open Top Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Goods that are too tall to fit into a standard container, such as scrap metal or logs.

Features: Removable top that can be covered with a tarp.

4. Refrigerated Containers (Reefers)

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and pharmaceuticals.

Features: Temperature-controlled, insulated units.

5. Tank Containers

Standard Sizes: Typically 20 feet

Uses: Liquids, gases, and powders.

Features: Cylindrical tank within a frame, often made from stainless steel.

6. Ventilated Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Products requiring ventilation such as coffee beans and other agricultural products.

Features: Ventilated walls.

7. Insulated Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Temperature-sensitive goods requiring protection from extreme temperatures.

Features: Insulated walls without active refrigeration.

8. High Cube Containers

Standard Sizes: 40 feet and 45 feet

Uses: Bulky but light cargo, such as cotton or clothing.

Features: Extra height, usually 9.5 feet tall, compared to the standard 8.5 feet.

9. Half-Height Containers

Standard Sizes: Usually 20 feet

Uses: Heavy but low-volume cargo like coal or stones.

Features: Half the height of a standard container.

10. Open Side Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Goods requiring side loading or that are too wide for standard doors.

Features: Doors that open on the side of the container.

11. Double Door Containers

Standard Sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet

Uses: Goods that benefit from easy access from either end, such as timber or steel.

Features: Doors on both ends of the container.