Ocean Freight Container Types, Dimensions and Cargo Selection Guide
Ocean freight container types: 20'DC, 40'DC, 40'HC, Reefer, Open-Top and Flat-Rack container dimensions and cargo guide.
Selecting the right container type in ocean cargo shipping is vital for both cargo safety and optimising freight costs. At KOLAĞASI Global Export, we offer the most suitable container solutions for FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less-than-Container Load) ocean freight between world ports.
Key Logistics Insights
- Volume and tonnage comparison tables for 20'DC, 40'DC and 40'HC standard containers.
- Genset-powered Reefer container tracking for products requiring cold chain.
- Open-Top and Flat-Rack special equipment solutions for over-gauge heavy machinery.
01Dry Van (Standard) Containers: 20'DC, 40'DC and 40'HC
Standard Dry Containers, which form the backbone of dry cargo shipping, are ideal for general cartons, pallets and bulk-packed products. The 20' Standard container offers approximately 33 m³ of internal volume, while the 40' High Cube (HC) container provides 76 m³ of internal volume with a 2.70 m internal height advantage.
02Precise Logistics with Reefer (Refrigerated) Containers
Reefer containers, designed for fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen food, chemicals and pharmaceutical industry products, allow precise climate control between -30°C and +30°C. Internal microprocessors record humidity and temperature values throughout the journey.
03Open-Top and Flat-Rack Special Equipment
Open-Top containers with a tarpaulin cover are preferred for tall products that don't fit through standard doors; Flat-Rack containers with open sides and top are preferred for heavy machinery and marble blocks.
Frequently Asked Questions & Technical Details
Q.What is the maximum tonnage a 20' and 40' container can carry?
The 20' standard container can take a maximum of approximately 21,700 kg – 24,000 kg of cargo, while the carrying capacity of the 40' HC container averages around 26,500 kg depending on port and road axle limits.
Q.How to avoid Demurrage and Detention charges?
Demurrage and detention penalties are avoided by preparing customs documents before the cargo arrives at port, correctly negotiating Free Time, and planning port-internal transport in advance.
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