Get $50,000 in potential benefits Register nowGet $50,000 in potential benefits Register nowGLOBAL SELLING BLOG
What are shipping containers? Know working, container dimensions, types, uses, and cost
Shipping containers are large, standardized metal boxes designed for transport and storage of goods. Learn about their types, benefits and uses in this blog.
Container units play a pivotal role in cargo shipping, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of goods across vast distances. For exporters, it is important to understand the various types of containers in shipping since this enables them to determine the optimal shipping container sizes for their business needs. In this blog, learn about the types of containers, their uses, costs, and benefits for Indian exporters.
What is a shipping container?
A shipping container, also known as a cargo container or just a container, is a large, standardized metal box designed for transport and storage of goods. These containers are specifically engineered to withstand rigors of transportation, including being stacked, lifted by cranes, and transported by various modes such as ships, trains, and trucks.1
Uses of shipping containers
Shipping containers have a range of uses across various industries and applications. Some of the key uses of shipping containers are:
International trade:
Shipping containers enable smooth movement of goods across borders, facilitating international trade.
Transportation:
Containers provide a standardized and secure means of transporting goods via ships, trains, and trucks, ensuring efficient logistics and reducing handling risks.
Storage:
Containers serve as temporary or long-term storage solutions for businesses, construction sites, and individuals needing secure and accessible storage space.
Retail and pop-up stores:
Containers are converted into attractive retail spaces and pop-up stores, offering flexibility, mobility, and unique branding opportunities.2
Benefits of shipping containers
Here are some key advantages of shipping containers:
● Standardization: Shipping containers follow uniform dimensions and specifications, ensuring compatibility and seamless intermodal transportation
● Security: Containers are built to withstand harsh environments, providing a secure and protected space for cargo during transit.
● Versatility: Containers can transport a range of goods, from dry goods to temperature-sensitive products and hazardous materials.
● Cost effectiveness: Containers optimize cargo storage and transportation, reducing shipping costs and minimizing the need for additional packaging and handling.
● Easy handling: Containers are designed for easy loading, unloading, and intermodal transfers, simplifying logistics operations.
● Scalability: Containers can be easily scaled up or down based on cargo volume, providing flexibility in transportation.
● Global connectivity: Containers enable efficient movement of goods across continents, connecting economies and fostering international trade.
● Environmental sustainability: Reusing and repurposing shipping containers reduces the demand for new production, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability.3
Types of shipping containers
Here are some common types of containers in shipping:
Dry containers:
Standard dry containers are the most common type of containers in logistics. These containers are used for general cargo, dry goods, and non-perishable products. They are usually available in sizes like 10ft, 20ft, and 40 ft.
Reefer containers:
Reefer containers are equipped with built-in refrigeration units, temperature control systems, and insulation. They are designed to transport perishable goods, such as fruits, vegetables, and pharmaceuticals.
Flat rack containers:
These containers have collapsible sides and are open on the top and ends. They are suitable for oversized cargo, machinery, vehicles, or goods that cannot fit within the dimensions of a standard container.
Open top containers:
These types of containers in logistics have a removable roof, allowing for top-loading of cargo that exceeds the height of a standard container.
Tank containers :
These containers are specifically designed to transport liquids and gas. They have cylindrical or rectangular tank compartments.
Open side containers:
This type of container in shipping has full-length doors on one or both sides, providing easy access for loading and unloading cargo. They are often used for furniture, machinery, or long-length goods.
ISO tank containers:
These are specialized types of containers in logistics that are designed for transportation of bulk liquids, chemicals, or gas.
Specialized containers:
Specialized shipping containers cater to specific cargo requirements. For instance, ventilated containers provide airflow for goods that require it.
Cargo storage roll containers:
Cargo storage roll containers are equipped with wheels and collapsible sides, providing easy mobility and storage for smaller cargo goods.
Half-height containers:
Half-height containers are characterized by their reduced height compared to standard containers. They are designed to transport heavy and dense cargo such as coal, gravel, or steel.
Tunnel containers:
Tunnel containers are designed with doors on both ends, allowing easy access to the cargo from either side. This feature simplifies the loading and unloading process, especially when goods need to be accessed or retrieved from the middle of the container.
Car carriers:
Car carriers are specialized containers designed exclusively for transporting automobiles.4
Shipping container sizes: Width, length, and height
The most used shipping container sizes are 10 ft, 20 ft, and 40 ft, each with a standard width of about 8 feet. Their height can vary depending on the type — standard containers measure 8’6”, while high-cube versions offer extra space at 9’6”. Here’s an overview of the dimensions of the three standard sizes:
● 10 ft standard shipping container: When you need compact yet efficient storage, a 10 ft container is an ideal choice. Despite its smaller footprint, it provides ample space for limited cargo and is especially suitable for personal storage or small business needs.
● 20 ft standard shipping container: A 20 ft container, commonly known as a Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU), is the industry’s benchmark for measuring cargo capacity. The size of shipments, vessels, and even port handling capacity is typically expressed in TEUs.
● 40 ft standard shipping container: A 40 ft container offers double the capacity of a 20 ft unit, making it ideal for cargo that cannot be accommodated in the smaller size. In such cases, opting for one 40 ft container is often more economical than using two 20 ft units, since a 40 ft container typically costs only about 30% more than a 20 ft.
Container type
Internal dimensions (LxWxH)
Cubic capacity
(cu ft)
Payload capacity (lb)
Tare weight (lb)
10ft standard dry container
9.2ft x 7.8ft x 7.10ft
563 cu ft
19,530 lbs
2,850 lbs
20ft standard dry container
19.4 ft x 7.8 ft x 7.10 ft.
1,172 cu ft
55,126 lbs
5,071 lbs
40ft standard dry container
39.4ft x 7.9ft x 7.10ft
2,389 cu ft
61,200 lbs
8,268 lbs
Note: Container sizes may differ slightly based on the manufacturer. The dimensions provided above are approximate values.5
Cost of shipping a container
The cost of shipping a container can vary widely, as prices are mainly influenced by two factors:
● Distance: Longer distances typically cost more than short distances.
● Container size: Container size and weight also impact shipping costs.6
Key documents assosicated with shipping containers
When using a shipping container, the most essential documents are the bill of lading and freight bill, which are typically included in a freight forwarder’s quote. Some other documents include:
1. Packing list
2. Customs declaration
3. Commercial invoice
4. Certificate of Origin
5. Letter of credit
While shipping, a buyer can either hire their own freight agent for pickup and delivery or rely on the seller’s freight forwarder, which may come with additional charges or markups. Typically, suppliers provide pricing based on Ex-Works (EXW) or Free on Board (FOB) terms when arranging transportation.7
What are the steps involved in shipping a container?
Here’s how containers are used in shipping:
Step 1: Order placement
The process begins when a buyer places an order and coordinates with a freight forwarder to arrange transportation from the production site to their location. Depending on the size and distance, different types of containers are used.
Step 2: Loading onto truck
After the order is placed, the goods are first loaded onto a truck and taken either directly to the destination or to the nearest port.
Step 3: Loading onto vessel
The freight forwarder identifies the most suitable shipping route, either the fastest or the most cost-effective. The container is then loaded onto a cargo ship that will transport it to the destination country.
Step 4: Ocean transport
During this stage, the vessel travels from the origin port to the arrival port. The ship’s crew or shipping line must share cargo and vessel information with the authorities in the destination country.
Step 5: Arrival at port
Once the ship is cleared to enter the port, it docks, and large cranes begin unloading the containers. A team of dockworkers work together to unload the vessel.
Step 6: Customs clearance
Customs officials review the documentation for each container and may choose some shipments for further inspection before allowing them to proceed.
Step 7: Pickup from port
After clearance, the container is placed on a truck trailer or chassis for onward movement. If the destination is far from the port, the container may be first moved by rail.
Step 8: Final delivery
The container reaches a nearby distribution centre where it is unpacked, sorted, and prepared for last-mile shipping. From here, it generally takes just a few more days for the customer to receive their final order.8
How to choose the right shipping container dimension?
Choosing the right container is essential for protecting your cargo and optimizing shipping costs, especially when handling sensitive or perishable goods. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Nature of cargo: Choosing the right container type and size is essential for transporting goods efficiently and cost-effectively. This is dependent on the nature of cargo, its size, weight, volume, and other specifics.
2. Accessibility: Consider how easy it will be to load and unload the container. Features such as side doors or open tops can simplify handling, especially for bulky or irregularly shaped items.
3. Cost and availability: Compare the pricing of different container types to stay within your budget. Keep in mind that specialized containers may have limited availability, which can influence both cost and lead times.
4. Regulatory compliance: Some types of cargos like perishable goods or hazardous cargo may require strict temperature regulations.
5. Logistics: Ensure the container is compatible with your planned modes of transport—whether by ship, truck, or rail. Additionally, check whether the container requires any special handling equipment.
Evaluating these points will help you select the most suitable container—ensuring your cargo, especially perishables, is transported safely, efficiently, and in a cost-effective manner.9
Conclusion
Shipping containers are the backbone of global logistics — standardized, secure, and versatile enough to handle almost any type of cargo. Understanding their sizes, types, costs, and documentation helps businesses make smarter shipping decisions and avoid delays or extra expenses. By choosing the right container based on cargo needs, regulations, and transport modes, exporters can ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective delivery. With the right knowledge, companies can streamline their supply chain and move goods across borders with confidence.
Amazon Global Selling: Easy e-commerce exports and hassle-free shipping
If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are shipping containers of different colors?
Shipping containers are painted in different colors to signify ownership, indicate specific cargo requirements (such as refrigerated or hazardous materials), or comply with regulations. It helps identify and categorize containers easily during transportation and storage.10
2. What is the lifespan of shipping containers?
The lifespan of shipping containers varies depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Typically, they can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more.11
3. What are the different types of containers in air cargo?
In air cargo, some common types of containers include Unit Load Devices (ULDs) like LD3, LD8, and LD11 for passenger aircraft, as well as PMC and PAG containers for dedicated cargo aircraft. These containers are designed to fit the specific dimensions and requirements of aircraft cargo holds, facilitating efficient and secure transportation by air.12
Published on May 25, 2023.
Updated on December 19, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping/
2. https://www.containercontainer.com/shipping-container-uses/
3. https://www.oneworldbazaar.ca/blogs/news/benefits-of-shipping-containers
4. https://www.marineinsight.com/know-more/16-types-of-container-units-and-designs-for-shipping-cargo/
5. https://www.container-xchange.com/blog/shipping-container-sizes
6. https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping/
7. https://www.maersk.com/logistics-explained/shipping-documentation/2023/08/27/important-shipping-documents
8. https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping/
9. https://uniserve.co.uk/sea-freight-containers-choosing-the-right-one-for-you/
10. https://www.dtsone.com/why-shipping-containers-have-different-colors/
11. https://www.billiebox.co.uk/how-long-do-shipping-containers-last/
12. https://www.mainfreight.com/belgium/en-nz/info-point/air-freight-containers
Updated on December 19, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping/
2. https://www.containercontainer.com/shipping-container-uses/
3. https://www.oneworldbazaar.ca/blogs/news/benefits-of-shipping-containers
4. https://www.marineinsight.com/know-more/16-types-of-container-units-and-designs-for-shipping-cargo/
5. https://www.container-xchange.com/blog/shipping-container-sizes
6. https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping/
7. https://www.maersk.com/logistics-explained/shipping-documentation/2023/08/27/important-shipping-documents
8. https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping/
9. https://uniserve.co.uk/sea-freight-containers-choosing-the-right-one-for-you/
10. https://www.dtsone.com/why-shipping-containers-have-different-colors/
11. https://www.billiebox.co.uk/how-long-do-shipping-containers-last/
12. https://www.mainfreight.com/belgium/en-nz/info-point/air-freight-containers
Sell across the world through Amazon Global Selling
Ready to start exporting from India?
Want to learn about Amazon Global Selling?
Disclaimer: Whilst Amazon Seller Services Private Limited ("Amazon") has used reasonable endeavours in compiling the information provided, Amazon provides no assurance as to its accuracy, completeness or usefulness or that such information is error-free. In certain cases, the blog is provided by a third-party seller and is made available on an "as-is" basis. Amazon hereby disclaims any and all liability and assumes no responsibility whatsoever for consequences resulting from use of such information. Information provided may be changed or updated at any time, without any prior notice. You agree to use the information, at your own risk and expressly waive any and all claims, rights of action and/or remedies (under law or otherwise) that you may have against Amazon arising out of or in connection with the use of such information. Any copying, redistribution or republication of the information, or any portion thereof, without prior written consent of Amazon is strictly prohibited.
© 2024 Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. All rights reserved
