Quick answer
Compare 20-foot, 40-foot and high-cube shipping containers, plus reefers, open-tops and flat-racks. Learn which dimensions and loading checks matter for cargo.
Container type describes the equipment and its purpose; container size describes its dimensions. Choosing between a 20-foot and a 40-foot box is a different decision from choosing dry, refrigerated or open-top equipment.
How many types of shipping containers are there?
There is no single short list that includes every specialised design. This guide covers six common equipment options: standard dry, high cube, reefer, open top, flat rack and tank containers. Several of these are available in different lengths and heights, so a size variation does not always mean a different container type.
Standard dry containers
20-foot container
Common for dense, heavy cargo and smaller volumes.
40-foot container
Provides greater cubic capacity for general cargo.
40-foot high-cube
Adds internal height for lighter, voluminous goods.
Special equipment
- Reefer: temperature-controlled cargo.
- Open-top: cargo loaded from above.
- Flat-rack: oversized machinery and project cargo.
- Tank container: approved bulk liquids.
Selection and loading checks
Consider dimensions, weight, loading method, door clearance, ventilation, lashing points and destination equipment.
Compare container options before booking
| Option | Typical use | Confirm before booking |
|---|---|---|
| Standard dry | General cargo without temperature control | Package fit and door opening |
| High cube | Voluminous cargo needing extra height | Usable height and payload |
| Reefer | Temperature-controlled goods | Product temperature and handling plan |
| Open top | Cargo loaded from above | Loading method and packed height |
| Flat rack | Oversized or heavy pieces | Dimensions, weight and securing plan |
| Tank | Suitable bulk liquids | Product suitability and tank condition |
Equipment designs and dimensions vary. Use the actual carrier specification when planning a shipment. See Hapag-Lloyd’s equipment overview and Stolt’s ISO tank overview for equipment references.
Size, internal space and weight are separate checks
A container’s nominal length does not tell you whether a packed item will pass through its doors. Compare the longest, widest and tallest packages with the internal space and opening, and allow for the loading method. A heavy shipment can reach a weight limit before filling the available space; light, bulky cargo can use the space first.
Extra height does not automatically mean extra permitted cargo weight. Confirm the selected equipment’s payload and any route restrictions. Maersk’s cargo-weight guidance explains that limits depend on equipment type, size and country. Our container guide helps you compare the common options before requesting shipment-specific confirmation.
Details to send for a container recommendation
- Cargo description and number of packages
- Length, width and height of each package after packing
- Gross weight per package and total shipment weight
- Whether the pieces can be stacked and how they will be loaded
- Temperature requirements or other special handling needs
- Collection point, destination and cargo-ready date
Are FCL and LCL types of containers?
FCL and LCL describe how sea-freight capacity is booked. With FCL, a shipment uses a dedicated container; with LCL, compatible shipments share space. They do not replace the choice of equipment type. Read our LCL and FCL comparison to understand the booking options.
For FCL and LCL transport, explore our sea freight services, or request a shipping quote with your cargo details, dimensions, weight and destination.
Planning a similar shipment?
Send the cargo type, weight, dimensions, pickup location and destination for a suitable shipping plan.