Container Specifications
Selecting the right container type has a significant impact on transportation cost, cargo safety, and loading efficiency.
This page presents the most commonly used container types in international shipping, along with their key technical specifications and recommended use cases.
Important note: The indicated dimensions and capacities are approximate. Actual specifications may vary slightly depending on the operator, manufacturer, and container model.
The standard 20-foot dry container is one of the most commonly used options for heavy cargo with relatively small volume. It is most effective when the cargo has a high weight and does not require significant internal space.
Approximate internal dimensions are 5.9 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m, with a capacity of around 33 m³ and a maximum payload of approximately 28.3 tons.
The 40-foot dry container is designed for more volumetric cargo and is used when additional space is required within standard height limits.
Its approximate internal dimensions are 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m, with a capacity of around 67.7 m³ and a payload of approximately 28.8 tons.
The 40’ High Cube container is similar in appearance to the standard 40’ Dry container but features increased internal height, making it more suitable for lightweight yet high-volume cargo.
Its approximate internal dimensions are 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.70 m, with a capacity of around 76.3-76.4 m³ and a payload of approximately 28.2-28.7 tons.
In practice, this container type is commonly used when volume is the primary constraint rather than weight.
A reefer container is designed for temperature-controlled cargo, such as food products, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive goods.
In international shipping, the 40’ High Cube Reefer is the most commonly used format. Its typical capacity is around 67.5 m³, with a maximum payload of approximately 29.7 tons. Actual capacity may vary depending on the container configuration and the specific requirements of the cargo.
An Open Top container is used for cargo that cannot be loaded through standard doors due to height or loading requirements.
Its main advantage is the ability to load cargo from the top, making it especially suitable for tall, non-standard, or difficult-to-handle shipments.
Both 20’ and 40’ Open Top containers are widely used in international shipping for specialized cargo.
A Flat Rack container is designed for heavy, oversized, and project cargo.
Its structure allows loading from the sides or the top, making it suitable for machinery, metal structures, large equipment, and other out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo.
Major carriers commonly use Flat Rack containers for the safe and efficient transportation of heavy and oversized shipments.
If the cargo is heavy but relatively low in volume, a 20’ Dry container is generally the most efficient option.
If the cargo is high in volume but relatively lightweight, a 40’ Dry or 40’ High Cube container is often more suitable.
For temperature-sensitive cargo, a Reefer container should be used, while Open Top or Flat Rack containers are recommended for oversized or non-standard cargo in terms of height or dimensions.
The final selection should always be based on the cargo’s size, weight, packaging, loading method, and route.
If you are not sure which container is optimal for your cargo, the Vengo Group team will help you select the right solution based on the cargo’s specifications, volume, and route.