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International shipping containers assist the backbone of global trade, shipping goods worldwide. Businesses can transport goods more swiftly, affordably, and securely. Container transportation has modernized supply networks, making them more integrated and global. It has transformed global trade, making it more approachable and cost-effective for shipping container companies globally.
These gigantic, standardized containers have revolutionized logistics, allowing effective and secure shipping of large goods. This blog will discuss the difference between standard dry containers and high-cube containers and the factors to consider before choosing between standard dry containers vs. high-cube containers.
What are standard dry containers?
Standard dry containers are the most popular container type globally, with around 90% of all goods transported by maritime. As the name says, a 40ft dry container transports dry cargo. These 20- and 40-foot shipping containers are made of aluminum or steel and can ship any material. Aluminum containers have a slightly larger carrying capacity than steel containers, whereas steel dry containers have a little bigger payload than the internal cube. A 40-foot container’s interior dimensions are 12.03 m long, 2.35 m wide, and 2.39 m high. The tare weight is 3750 kg. The container door width is 2.34 m, while the height is 2.28 m.
Common uses
Dry containers are cargo containers that ship preservable items that do not require refrigeration. They are typically used for general cargo, including apparel, electronics, and furniture. Dry containers are a type of container used to store and transport non-liquid items and come in a variety of sizes.
Advantages of using standard dry containers
The advantages of using standard dry containers are mentioned below:
- Easy to install
- Minimize the packaging cost
- Expand cargo capacity
- Eco-friendly
What are high cube containers?
High cube containers are metal boxes that ship freight by seaways or railways. Their high capacity and low weight facilitate their utility. They are taller than ordinary containers and come in a variety of sizes. Because of their one-foot height advantage, high cube containers can handle taller cargo. They are available in 20-ft, 40-ft, and 45-ft sizes.
Common uses:
High-cargo containers are mainly used for transporting and storing cargo with higher surface area and volume. Some expected benefits of high-cube containers are temporary storage of goods, durability, cost-efficiency, and transportability. Most high-cube containers are waterproof and can be used as a temporary storage substitute.
Advantages of using high cube containers
The advantages of using high-cube containers are mentioned below:
- More storage capacity
- More height for wiring and plumbing
- Improved logistics efficiency
Dimensions: High cube containers have an exterior height of 9.5 ft (2.9 m) compared to 8.5 ft (2.6 m) for standard dry containers. This extended height offers more internal volume, making high cube containers ideal for shipping or storing taller or bulkier items.
Weight capacity: High-cube containers usually have the same weight capacity as standard dry containers, generally around 24-28 tons. However, due to their taller design, they may have a slightly lower weight capacity.
Cost differences: If we compare standard dry containers to high-cube containers, high-cube containers are often more expensive than standard dry containers because of their large dimensions and higher material prices. The price varies according to the provider, location, and other factors.
Accessibility and ease of use: High-cube containers could be more challenging to reach and use than standard dry containers, particularly while loading and unloading freight. The increased height might make loading and unloading objects more challenging, necessitating specialist equipment or handling procedures. Furthermore, high-cube shipping containers may not work with all container handling equipment or storage facilities.
Why container height matters in shipping
Container height is a key factor for shipping oversized freight or bulky products. For example, if you are transporting crucial machinery or equipment, you will need a taller container to fit the cargo’s height. In these situations, selecting the right container height ensures secure and efficient transportation.
Container height has a significant influence on freight costs and logistics. If the cargo is too tall for the container, it may demand supplementary handling, special licenses, or several shipments, resulting in higher prices and logistical challenges. On the other hand, choosing the right container height can help enhance cargo capacity, minimize transportation expenses, and minimize ecological impact.
For example, a 40-ft container with a height of around 7ft and 10 inches is suitable for shipping large cargo. In contrast, a 20-ft container with a similar height is better suited to smaller, bulkier cargo.
Factors to consider before choosing between standard dry containers vs. high-cube containers:
- Cargo size and volume: The size and volume of the cargo can affect the shipping process, including the type of transportation used, storage requirements, and handling procedures.
- Cargo sort: The type of cargo you’re carrying significantly impacts your container selection. Consider your items’ dimensions, mass, fragility, and unique needs, like refrigeration or ventilation.
- Cost efficiency: Your budget will significantly impact the type of container you can purchase. Consider the container’s pricing and any additional features or services you may require.
- Transportation constraints: Perishable goods often require special transportation arrangements, such as refrigeration or temperature control, impacting the shipping process.
- Weight Limits: Weight limits of the vehicles can affect the shipping process, including the type of transportation used.
- Air Circulation: Air circulation is necessary to ensure that perishable goods, mostly sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, are in good quality during transportation.
Decision-making tips
- Assess your cargo: Before selecting the optimal container type for your cargo, try to evaluate its size, weight, and requirements.
- Consider the route: Always examine maritime routes for weather or logistics challenges.
- Set a budget: Set your budget and the needs of your goods and shipping route.
- Evaluate container options: Consider the advantages and disadvantages of standard dry containers vs. high-cube containers, considering cost, availability, and features.
In global trade operations, the decision between standard dry containers and high cube containers significantly affects transport logistics and costs. Because of their constrained internal space, standard dry containers are an affordable and accessible option for most general cargo but cannot fit bigger products. High-cube shipping containers have a larger interior volume and are perfect for tall or heavy items. They come with an additional cost and possible handling charges. The choice ultimately comes down to the particulars of the cargo, as well as financial restrictions.
Selecting high-cube containers can limit the risk of damage during transit, minimize transportation costs, and diminish the frequency of shipments for firms that focus on heavy gear or bulky freight. Selecting the right kind of container supports ecologically friendly transportation methods by expanding productivity and lowering ecological impact. Choosing between standard dry containers vs. high-cube containers to ensure smooth transportation and shipment of goods internationally, improving overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in the cutthroat international market, and needing pre-planning and consultation with maritime specialists is necessary.
LOTUS Containers specializes in container leasing, trade services, buyback, and shipping container renting. They offer various shipping container solutions, including the standard 53-foot intermodal and high cube containers. Contact LOTUS Containers for more services.