Types of 20 Feet Containers for Different Cargo Needs

Twenty-foot containers come in multiple specialized types designed for different cargo requirements. Understanding these options helps you choose the right container type for your specific shipping needs and cargo characteristics.

1. Standard 20-Foot Dry Container

The most common container type handles the majority of global cargo shipments.

These containers measure 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet high externally. Internal dimensions provide about 19.4 feet of length, 7.7 feet of width, and 7.9 feet of height for cargo space.

Maximum gross weight capacity reaches 67,200 pounds, though actual limits depend on shipping line policies and route restrictions. The container itself weighs approximately 5,070 pounds when empty.

Cargo volume accommodates roughly 1,170 cubic feet of goods, making these containers ideal for most general merchandise, manufactured goods, and packaged products.

Construction features include corrugated steel walls, wooden floors, and double doors at one end with rubber seals to protect against weather and moisture.

2. 20-Foot High Cube Container

High cube containers provide extra vertical space for tall or voluminous cargo.

External height measures 9.5 feet instead of the standard 8.5 feet, giving an additional foot of cargo space. Length and width remain the same as standard containers.

Internal cargo height reaches approximately 8.9 feet, perfect for goods that are tall but not particularly heavy.

These containers work well for lightweight, bulky items like furniture, textiles, or large appliances that need extra headroom.

Weight capacity remains similar to standard containers, but the additional cubic footage allows for better space utilization with certain cargo types.

3. 20-Foot Refrigerated Container (Reefer)

Temperature-controlled containers maintain specific climate conditions throughout the shipping journey.

Built-in refrigeration units can maintain temperatures from -65°F to +65°F depending on cargo requirements. These units plug into ship power during ocean transport and generator sets during land transport.

Insulated walls and specialized door seals maintain consistent temperatures even during container handling and transfers between transport modes.

These containers are essential for food products, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other temperature-sensitive goods that would spoil or degrade in standard containers.

Additional equipment includes temperature monitoring systems that record conditions throughout the journey, providing documentation for quality control and insurance purposes.

4. 20-Foot Open Top Container

Containers with removable tops accommodate cargo that's too tall for standard container doors.

Heavy-duty tarpaulins replace solid roofs, secured with rope and tensioning systems to protect cargo from weather while allowing top loading access.

These containers work perfectly for machinery, construction equipment, or other oversized items that fit within the container footprint but exceed standard height limits.

Loading typically requires cranes or other lifting equipment to place cargo through the open top, then secure the tarpaulin covering.

Some versions feature removable roof bows that support the tarpaulin, while others use rigid removable roofs for different cargo types.

5. 20-Foot Flat Rack Container

Flat racks handle wide or unusually shaped cargo that won't fit in standard enclosed containers.

Fixed end walls provide structural strength and container corner castings, while the sides remain completely open for easy loading access.

Collapsible versions allow the end walls to fold down when empty, making these containers more efficient to transport when not loaded with cargo.

Weight capacity often exceeds standard containers because the open design eliminates wall weight, allowing more payload within gross weight limits.

These containers excel for construction materials, vehicles, boats, or industrial equipment that requires side loading or exceeds standard container width.

6. 20-Foot Tank Container

Specialized containers for liquid cargo transport provide safe containment for various fluid products.

Stainless steel or lined steel tanks fit within standard container frameworks, maintaining compatibility with existing handling equipment and transport systems.

Different tank specifications accommodate various liquid types including food products, chemicals, fuels, and industrial fluids.

Built-in safety features include pressure relief valves, temperature monitoring, and specialized fittings for loading and unloading operations.

These containers eliminate the need for drums or other packaging for liquid shipments, reducing costs and environmental impact while improving safety.

7. 20-Foot Ventilated Container

Air circulation features prevent moisture buildup and provide fresh air for specific cargo types.

Natural ventilation systems use strategically placed vents that allow air flow without compromising weather protection.

These containers work well for coffee, cocoa, nuts, and other agricultural products that benefit from air circulation during transport.

Some versions include mechanical ventilation systems for more precise air flow control when cargo requirements demand it.

The ventilation design maintains cargo security while preventing condensation and moisture damage that could affect product quality.

8. 20-Foot Insulated Container

Enhanced insulation protects temperature-sensitive cargo without active refrigeration systems.

Thick insulated walls slow temperature changes, maintaining more stable internal conditions than standard containers.

These containers work well for products that need temperature protection but don't require precise climate control like full refrigerated units provide.

Cost advantages over refrigerated containers make insulated units attractive for cargo with moderate temperature sensitivity.

Some versions can be converted to refrigerated containers by adding cooling units when more precise temperature control becomes necessary.

Choosing the Right Container Type

Selecting the appropriate container depends on your specific cargo characteristics and shipping requirements.

Consider your cargo dimensions, weight, and any special handling needs like temperature control or weather protection.

Evaluate the total cost including any special equipment fees, as specialized containers typically cost more than standard dry containers.

Think about loading and unloading requirements at origin and destination, ensuring appropriate equipment will be available.

Plan for any regulatory requirements that might mandate specific container types for certain products or trade routes.

Availability and Booking Considerations

Different container types have varying availability depending on trade routes and seasonal demand.

Standard dry containers offer the best availability and most competitive pricing across all shipping routes and seasons.

Specialized containers like reefers or tank containers require advance booking and might not be available on all routes or from all shipping lines.

Seasonal demand affects availability, with refrigerated containers being harder to find during peak fruit and vegetable shipping seasons.

Equipment positioning by shipping lines influences availability, as specialized containers might not be positioned at all ports consistently.

Cost Implications

• Container type selection significantly affects shipping costs beyond basic ocean freight rates.

• Specialized containers typically carry premium rates ranging from 10% to 100% above standard dry container costs.

• Additional services like temperature monitoring, special cleaning, or certified loading procedures add to the total shipping expense.

• Some container types require special handling equipment at ports, potentially increasing terminal charges and delivery costs.

• Insurance considerations might change based on container type, especially for temperature-controlled or high-value cargo shipments.

Bottom Line

Twenty-foot containers offer numerous specialized options beyond standard dry containers. The key is matching container type to your cargo requirements while balancing functionality with cost considerations.

Understanding the available options helps optimize your shipping decisions and ensures your cargo arrives in optimal condition. Work with experienced freight forwarders who can guide container selection based on your specific products and shipping destinations.