7 Types of Logistics Containers You Should Know

By María Gamba

When discussing international trade and freight transportation, few things are as essential —and as underestimated— as the container. These enormous metal boxes are the foundation of the global logistics system. In fact, over 90% of the world's cargo is transported in containers.

But not all containers are the same. Depending on the type of cargo, destination, and required conditions, there are different models with specific characteristics. Knowing them can help you optimize costs, avoid damage, and streamline your operations.

In this blog I share with you the7 most used types of containers in logistics, how they are used and why they are key in the supply chain.

1.Dry Van Container (Standard)

It is the most common and the one you probably imagine when you think of a container. It is used to transport dry goods, that is, products that do not require refrigeration or special temperature or humidity conditions.

Main characteristics:

• Fully closed and hermetic.
• Available in 20 and 40 foot sizes.
• Ideal for boxes, furniture, textiles, machinery, etc.

Advantages:It is economical, easy to stack and compatible with almost any type of transport (maritime, rail or land).

2.High Cube Container

It is similar to the Dry Van, but with greater height (about 30 cm additional). It is used when the load exceeds the 2.4 meters in height of the standard container.

Main characteristics:

• Height of 9.6 feet (2.89 m) compared to the 8.6 feet of the standard.
• Available in 40 and 45 feet.

Common uses:Appliances, bulky items, merchandise on tall pallets.

Advantages:Increases the internal volume without taking up more space in length, ideal for optimizing cubic load capacity.

3.Refrigerated Container (Reefer)

Designed to maintain constant temperatures, this container is essential for the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Main characteristics:

• Temperature range from -25°C to +25°C.
• Equipped with an integrated refrigeration unit.
• Requires electrical connection during transport.

Common uses:Meat, fruits, seafood, vaccines, flowers, biological products.

Advantages:Maintains the cold chain and allows the safe transport of perishable products over long distances.

4.Open Top Container

As its name indicates, this container does not have a solid roof, but a removable tarpaulin. It is used when the load is too high or heavy to enter through the side doors.

Main characteristics:

• Open top with the possibility of loading by crane.
• Reinforced structure for heavy loads.

Common uses:Heavy machinery, steel, stones, industrial engines.

Advantages:Allows loading of goods of large volume or irregular shape from the top.

5.Flat Rack Container

This model is designed to transport oversized loads that do not fit in a closed container. It has a solid floor and foldable or non-existent side walls.

Main characteristics:

• No roof or side walls.
• Ideal for overweight or oversized cargo.
• Resistant and easy to secure with straps or chains.

Common uses:Industrial vehicles, turbines, metal structures, long tubes.

Advantages:Allows the safe transport of goods that could not enter standard containers.

6.Tank Container (Tank)

Specifically designed to transport bulk liquids, this type of container is a cylindrical steel structure mounted on a standard frame.

Main characteristics:

• Capacity between 20,000 and 26,000 liters.
• Transport of dangerous and non-dangerous liquids.
• Complies with international safety regulations.

Common uses:Oils, wines, chemicals, fuels, detergents.

Advantages:Prevents spills, allows safe transport and can be easily emptied with pumps or gravity.

7.Ventilated Container

This container has special openings that allow air circulation. It is ideal for products that need constant ventilation during transport.

Main characteristics:

• Passive or mechanical ventilation depending on the model.
• Same size as a Dry Van.

Common uses:Coffee, cocoa, tobacco, rice, wood, wet textiles.

Advantages:Prevents condensation and mold, especially on long journeys or humid areas.

How to choose the right container?

The choice of container depends on several factors:

• Type of merchandise.
• Weight and dimensions.
• Required environmental conditions.
• Route and duration of the journey.
• Customs or multimodal transport requirements.

An error in this choice can result in losses due to damage, fines or delays.

What does a logistics company like Control Terrestre do?

InControl Terrestre, part of our value as a Freight Forwarder is to advise our clients on the most suitable type of container for each cargo. From refrigerated cargo bound for the US to heavy machinery within Mexico, our team analyzes the characteristics of the product, the route and the required times to select the most efficient, safe and profitable option.

In addition, we offer 24/7 GPS tracking, temperature monitoring in Reefer containers, intermodal coordination and everything necessary to ensure that your merchandise arrives in optimal conditions.

What to take into account?

Knowing the different types of containers allows you to make better logistical decisions. It is not only about moving merchandise from point A to point B, but about doing so with the right strategy, taking care of the product and optimizing resources.

The next time you plan a shipment, remember: the container is not a minor detail. It is a key piece for everything to work well from origin to destination.