There are various types of container units and designs for shipping cargo. Some containers have vast doors on one side and can be tipped to allow for more effortless loading of oversized goods. There are also flat rack containers that have their roofs removed and can be loaded with heavy machinery or large goods. Also known as swap bodies, they are ideal for road and rail transport. Whatever container type you use, installing safety accessories like quality chassis lights ensures visibility during loading and unloading, especially at night or in low-light conditions.

Standard Containers

Today’s most widely used type of container is the standard container. These general-purpose shipping containers can transport nearly any cargo and feature a roof, sides, and floor. Refrigerated containers, also known as reefers, transport perishable goods requiring a temperature-controlled environment for long distances.

These are usually equipped with cooling units to keep temperatures stable. Insulated containers are similar to reefers but with the added benefit of additional insulation. It allows them to maintain a higher temperature and is commonly used for food, beverages, and other cold-sensitive products.

High Cube Containers

High Cube Containers (also known as HC containers) are ideal for transporting and storing cargo with significant volume. Compared to standard shipping containers, HC containers can support up to 775 more pounds of cargo weight. You can choose different types of containers from Norcal shipping containers depending on the intended use of the container.

If a modified shipping container is meant for human occupancy, the added headroom of an HC container makes it more comfortable to work or live in. The extra height also allows architects and conversion specialists to create a false ceiling for air-conditioning, ventilation, and storage.

Open Top Containers

Open-top containers are an excellent option for cargo requiring crane lifting or too tall to fit into a standard container. They’re perfect for storing or transporting motors and engine parts, bulk grain, recyclable goods, steel or mining supplies, cable spools, and more.

These units typically come with soft roofs that are secured by removable bows. They can also have doors on either end for easy loading. Unlike conventional shipping containers with solid sides, these units are stiffened with reinforcements for structural integrity. They can also be shipped empty to save on storage and handling costs.

Double Door Containers

Double-door containers are similar to standard ones in dimensions but come with two sets of doors that open on both sides. It makes it much easier to load and unload materials quickly. They’re also often attached to trucks transporting coal, stones, and other mass cargo requiring easy access.

These units are often used for storage purposes by businesses or residential customers. For example, a construction company may store windows for their housing plans in double-door containers so they are readily available. They’re also ideal for storing machinery, iron and steel, cars, and other heavy cargo.

Foldable Containers

A foldable container is a specialized shipping unit that looks like a standard storage container but can be easily folded flat for transport. These units are used by several businesses, including retail and commercial companies, and are ideal for storing excess inventory or materials in the short term. They can also be repurposed into creative entertainment spaces such as restaurants and open theaters.

They can also transport liquid freight and are a great alternative to tank containers. Shipping containers have remained unchanged since the International Maritime Organization standardized them five decades ago. They have become very familiar to us, even though their repositioning in the world’s oceans is costly and harmful to our environment.

Half-Height Containers

Half-height containers are specialized containers designed to carry heavy bulk cargo. It allows for easy loading from above using a crane or excavator. They are a good solution for mining and construction industries as they can easily carry bulk cargo like coal, stones, or other materials. Their design also allows for a lower center of gravity. They can also be used as flat rack containers when not in use. It’s useful for non-standard load types such as vehicles or jet engines.

Car Carrier Containers

Car carrier containers are made to transport cars and other vehicles over long distances. They have collapsible sides that make it easier for the car to fit inside the container without damage or shifting during transit. Insulated containers have thermal insulations that allow for regulated temperature control.

They’re often used for goods that require a higher temperature than what can be achieved in standard shipping containers. Tunnel containers have doors on both short ends of the container, making it easy to load and unload cargo that cannot be loaded through a standard end door. They’re also a good choice for shipping tall machinery and equipment.