Types of Shipping Containers

There are many types of shipping containers used for the transport of goods. The most common type is a 20-foot ISO (International Organization for Standardization) container, which can be found in every port around the world and is the standard size for many international shipments. Other sizes include 40-foot, 48-foot, 53-foot, and 60-foot containers, as well as various lengths of flatbed trailers.
ISO containers
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published standards for both 20-foot and 40-foot containers. These standards cover such topics as dimensions, materials, labeling, markings, and other requirements. Most major ports use these standardized containers.
20-foot containers
A 20-foot container is the most widely used ISO container size. It has a length of 20 feet and widths varying from 8 to 12 feet. The height varies depending on the type of cargo being shipped; the most common heights are 9 feet 3 inches, 10 feet 2 inches, and 11 feet 6 inches. This size is commonly referred to as a 20-ft box or 20 ft box.
40-foot containers
A 40-foot container is similar to a 20-foot container except it has a greater length of 40 feet. The width of a 40-foot container is generally between 8 and 12 feet. The height of a 40-foot container depends on the type of cargo being shipped. Common heights are 9 feet 3 inches, 10 feet 2 inches, and 11 feet 6 inches.
48-foot containers
A 48-foot container is similar to a 40-foot container except it has a longer length of 48 feet. The width of a 48-foot container is generally between 8 and 12 feet. The height of a 48-foot container depends on the type of cargo being shipped. Common heights are 9 feet 3 inches, 10 feet 2 inches, and 11 feet 6 inches.
53-foot containers
A 53-foot container is similar to a 40-foot container except it has a longer length of 53 feet. The width of a 53-foot container is generally between 8 and 12 feet. The height of a 53-foot container depends on the type of cargo being shipped. Common heights are 9 feet 3 inches, 10 feet 2 inches, and 11 feet 6 inches.
60-foot containers
A 60-foot container is similar to a 40-foot container except it has a longer length of 60 feet. The width of a 60-foot container is generally between 8 and 12 feet. The height of a 60-foot container depends on the type of cargo being shipped. Common heights are 9 feet 3 inches, 10 feet 2 inches, and 11 feet 6 inches.
Flatbed trailers
A flatbed trailer is a type of trailer that is made specifically for transporting goods by truck.