Shipping containers come in a wide range of sizes and types. The dimensions and maximum weight often impact what kind of equipment can be used. Understanding the type of shipping container that suits your needs will be helpful when delivering cargo. One of the standard sizes available for shipping containers is the 20’ type.
A 20’ shipping container is a popular sea container used for shipping goods. This conex box has a total length of 20 feet with an external height of 8’6” (2,6m). 20′ shipping containers are commonly used for transporting a wide range of goods, including consumer goods, industrial products, chemicals, building materials, automobiles, and more. The versatility and durability of these containers make them an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.
The following guide shows various shipping container types that can be used to determine your shipping needs.
20ft Dry Container
20’ dry container is the most common type of shipping container. It is 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet 6 inches high. The dry containers are used to transport goods that do not require temperature control or protection from the elements, such as clothing, electronics, furniture, and other consumer goods.
The standard 20ft dry container has a maximum payload of around 62,000 pounds and can be loaded and unloaded with a forklift or a crane. They are designed to be easily transported and stacked, making them a cost-effective solution for the storage and transportation of goods over long distances.
20ft High Cube Container
A 20ft high cube container is similar to a standard 20ft container but is slightly taller, with a height of 9 feet 6 inches. The extra height provides an additional foot of storage space, making it ideal for transporting goods that require a little more vertical room, such as tall machinery, furniture, or palletized goods.
A 20ft high cube container is 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and made of corrugated corten steel. It also has a similar maximum payload capacity compared to the standard one. The extra height and additional storage space make it a popular choice for a variety of applications, from shipping goods overseas to storing goods on a construction site or in a warehouse.
While a 20ft high cube container provides additional storage space, the items carried will also depend on the specific requirements of each shipment, such as weight, size, and fragility.
20ft Open-Top Container
An open-top container is designed with an open top rather than a solid roof. This allows items that are too tall to fit within a standard container, such as heavy machinery or large pieces of construction equipment, to be loaded and unloaded with ease.
Open-top containers are also available in 40ft sizes. They come with removable tarpaulins that can be placed over the open top to protect the contents from the elements during transportation.
The open-top container provides a flexible and cost-effective solution for the transportation of a wide variety of goods. They are commonly used for hauling scrap metal, waste, or other bulk materials. The open-top design makes it easy to load and unload the container, which can help to reduce the cost and time involved in loading and unloading operations.
20ft Flat Rack Container
A 20ft flat rack container is intended for the transportation of oversized and heavy cargo. A flat rack container has only two end walls and a flat deck, with no sides or roof. This makes it easier to load and unload large, heavy items, such as machinery, vehicles, or building materials.
Flat rack containers are also available in 40ft lengths and can be equipped with collapsible sides, which can be raised when necessary to provide additional stability and containment for the cargo. The flat deck design also makes it possible to load cargo from the top, bottom, or sides, which provides greater flexibility in how the container is used.
In addition to their use in the transportation of oversized cargo, flat rack containers are also commonly used for the storage of goods on construction sites or in warehouses. They can be easily stacked, providing a cost-effective solution for the storage of large, heavy items.
20ft Reefer Container
A 20ft reefer container, known as a refrigerated container is designed to transport perishable goods that require temperature control. These containers are equipped with refrigeration units that can maintain a specific temperature range, typically between 25°C to -40°C. A reefer container is ideal for the transportation of items such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and other temperature-sensitive goods.
Reefer containers also come in 40ft lengths. The refrigeration unit in a reefer container can be powered by an electrical connection while in transit, or by a diesel generator while in storage or during transit on a train or truck. Some reefer containers also can be connected to a shore-based electrical supply, which allows them to be used as temporary cold storage facilities.
Reefer containers provide a safe and efficient way to transport perishable goods, ensuring that they remain at the correct temperature throughout the journey and arrive at their destination in a fresh and saleable condition.
20ft Insulated Container
A 20ft insulated container is made to maintain a consistent temperature for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. Unlike a refrigerated container, an insulated container uses insulation to maintain a constant temperature. This makes it ideal for transporting goods that do not require a refrigerated environment but still need to be protected from temperature fluctuations.
The insulation is typically made of materials such as foam, which provides a high level of thermal resistance. This helps to maintain the temperature inside the container, even in extreme weather conditions and prevents the ingress of moisture and humidity, which can cause spoilage or damage to the goods.
Insulated containers would be beneficial for the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods that do not require refrigeration, ensuring that they arrive at their destination in the same condition they were loaded. Insulated containers are also available in 40ft sizes.
20ft Side Open Dangerous Goods Container
A 20ft side-open dangerous goods container is used for the safe transportation of hazardous materials. Unlike a standard shipping container, which has doors on one end, a side-open container has doors on one or both sides, making it easier to load and unload large or heavy items.
These containers are equipped with features that meet international regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials, such as reinforced walls and floors, secure door locks, and ventilation systems. These features protect both the people handling the containers and the environment from potential harm.
Side open dangerous goods containers are also available in 40ft and are used for the transportation of items such as chemicals, dangerous goods, and other hazardous materials.
New and Used 20ft Shipping Containers for Sale
New and used 20ft shipping containers are both options for those in need of a container for storage or transportation purposes. Each option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your needs and budget before making a decision.
The benefits of getting new 20ft shipping containers are that they come in excellent condition and with a warranty. They are also available in a variety of types, including standard, high cube, open top, flat rack, refrigerated, and insulated. While the drawbacks of used containers are they may have some wear and tear, and the condition of the container can vary greatly. It may also be more difficult to find a specific type of container, such as a refrigerated container. Though used containers normally come at a much lower price.
Ultimately, the choice between a new or used 20ft shipping container will depend on the specific needs of your shipment and budget. If you need a container in excellent condition and are willing to pay a higher price, a new container may be the right choice for you. If cost is a concern, a used container may be a more affordable option.
Purchasing a Conex Box
Tradecorp has a wide range of customization options for shipping containers for sale. We will help you find the perfect container solution for your business or project needs. Find a variety of types and sizes of shipping containers, from standard ones to tanks, and customizable ones. We will have them ready for you at a reasonable price. Fill out the contact form on our page and we will respond to your inquiry promptly.