Specialized Container Options
Written by Susan Nalevac | July 07, 2022
When you think of a shipping container, you probably picture the most commonly known 20’ or 40’ standard, dry container. But there are many other specialized containers in circulation today that can be used for multiple purposes outside of shipping.
We’ve put together a brief guide and description of specialized containers and their benefits to help you understand options you may wish to consider to meet your specific needs:
In This Article:
Flat Rack Container
A flat rack container is used primarily for oversized or awkward-sized cargo that doesn’t fit the typical container. The sides and top of the container fold flat, giving the load more freedom to stretch out while still being tied and strapped down. They are typically used to transport whole machines like construction equipment or large building supplies.
Open Top Container
As you may guess, an open top container features a top that opens. The convertible top of this container has two uses: it can fit exceptionally tall cargo and offers cranes easy access to the goods.
Pro Tip: Want an aboveground pool? Get an open top container, pop the top, fill it with water, and voilà!
The timber and scrap metal industries are two examples of proponents of the open top container. That’s because these containers make loading and unloading loose materials like scrap metal and uncut wood easy.
Containers with Double Doors, Both Ends
Some also refer to this option as a “tunnel container”. These containers feature two sets of standard double-doors – one at each end of the container. These double doors make the container look like a tunnel and are chosen for their loading and unloading convenience.
Open Side Container
If the best way to load and unload your cargo onto a container is with a forklift, you might want to consider an open side container. These containers feature two large doors on the side as well as doors on one end, exposing the entire interior of the container.
Half Height Container
There’s a half height container for those who don’t need all the storage capacity of a full-size container. A half height isn’t as tall but is as long as a standard container and features top doors instead of end doors.
Half height containers are popular for those who have to move natural materials or small parts, like coal, stones, nuts, and bolts.
Temperature-Controlled Container
There are also containers for storing and moving temperature-sensitive goods. A refrigerated ISO container will keep perishable items like fruits and vegetables from spoiling before they reach their destinations.
Or if you’re shipping somewhere exceptionally cold and don’t want your goods to freeze on the journey, you can opt for a thermal or insulated container.
Conclusion
For more information on specialized containers, check out this related article.
Container Management, Inc. offers many types of new and used shipping containers for sale in Houston, Atlanta, Chicago, and 29 additional locations across the country.
