The advent of shipping containers is a boon for the logistics industry. They revolutionized the whole concept of transporting cargo all over the world. They eased the tedious task of transporting cargo from one location to another, as now the cargo could be loaded onto these containers. They can be then transported anywhere using different means of transportation, giving them the name, Intermodal Containers. The decision between high cube vs standard is crucial for every shipper, as which one to choose always makes them confused.

In order to transfer cargo from one location to another, one has to be fully aware of the different types and dimensions of shipping containers that are provided by shipping companies. Each type of cargo requires certain specifications which ensures the smooth and safe transportation of the freight. The most widely used dimensions are 20 feet container and 40 feet container. However, for certain cargo that requires an extra heightened feature, there is a high cube variant, which allows for the transportation of cargo that is taller and cannot be transported in the aforementioned dimension specifics.

In many instances, it has been noted that when people set out to venture into the vast container industry, they are unaware of how the standard and a high cube container differ. There are not many differences between the two, as they share a similar description and appear almost the same. Nevertheless, they do have a difference in height and weight, as the high cube shipping containers stand taller than their standard counterparts.

What are high cube containers?

High Cube shipping containers are identical to standard containers, with variations in height. They are large sturdy boxes made up of steel, used to transfer bulky goods from one location to another. They are reusable shipping and storage units that are constructed to transport products and raw materials across countries all over the world. High cube containers are identical to standard cargo boxes, only taller.

They are used to transport all sorts of cargo for transporting light and voluminous cargo. Another difference between high cube and standard cargo containers is the weight. The 40 feet high cube variant has a weight of approximately 8775 lbs. whereas the 40 feet high cube variant of the standard freight box weighs 8000 lbs.

What are the features of a high cube container?

The features of high cube containers are different and unique. They are:

• Made from high-quality steel that makes them a durable choice for the storage and shipment of cargo.
• They have wooden timber flooring that gives them an elegant and royal finish and saves the floor from getting rust in case of spillage.
• They are manufactured with waterproof and windproof sealed double doors. The doors also have a 270 degree opening in order to get full access to transport large cargo.
• As they have extra cubic meters of height, they provide more space for storing and shipping cargo.
• They are extra spacious, secure, and robust, making them ideal for the onsite storage of equipment and machinery.

High cube shipping containers can also be repurposed into modifications. They can be converted into offices, restaurants, homes, and sheds. They can also be stacked to develop more spacious structures. Since high cubes are taller than standard containers, they are suitable for higher-ceiling structures that can enhance air circulation, thus providing added comfort for the occupants.

By now, it is evident that high cube containers are different from standard shipping containers in lieu of height and weight. They offer extra height in order to ship cargo that is more in height. Another major point of difference can be the prices of the containers. High cube containers, as they provide extra space and height for storing and shipping cargo, cost higher than the standard ones.

What are standard containers?

Standard containers are also commonly referred to as general-purpose containers. They are enclosed on all sides and have doors at either or both ends. They have the following characteristics:

• They are wind and waterproof, making them extremely safe and reliable to transport dry cargo.
• Being constructed with strong materials like steel and aluminum, they are suitable for transportation as well as storage of freight.
• They are equipped with wooden flooring that gives them a premium look and safety to flooring.
• Standard containers are a cost-effective and versatile way to transport goods without the fear of getting bumped in high tunnels, bridges, etc.

With all these features that make standard shipping containers an excellent choice of shipping goods to their desired locations, there is more to them.

A standard unit, regardless of being new or used, can be repurposed into elegant, worthwhile structures. They are constructed from durable materials, and can thus be refurbished into livable spaces. An increasing trend of converting shipping containers into new architecture like shipping container homes, cafes, malls, hospitals, etc. has been emerging, making standard shipping units not just as a medium to store or transport the cargo.

If you are confused as to which type of cargo box to buy, high cube vs standard, we hope that this blog cleared all your queries. LOTUS Containers is a prominent shipping container company that provides both these variants of shipping units, and more. We provide new as well as old shipping containers for sale and on lease depending upon your requirements.