Which one to choose? Different types of shipping containers explained

Which one to choose? Different types of shipping containers explained

April 13, 2022

Which one to choose? Different types of shipping containers explained

November 10, 2023
Which one to choose? Different types of shipping containers explained

Whether you’re an individual looking for self-storage space or a business in retail, construction, logistics or any other sector looking for practical solutions – shipping containers offer a very cost-effective option to store important items and supplies.

It’s always good to be familiar with the various types:

Standard shipping containers

Standard dry containers are also called GP (general purpose containers) and are the most common shipping container type. The most common ones are available in two standard sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet long, but we are offering a variety of standard shipping containers, which you can see on our fleet list. Find out more about shipping container sizes.

Flatrack containers

As the name implies, flatrack containers do not have sidewalls. They are equipped with a solid base and collapsible end walls, and ideally suited to transporting heavy machinery, disproportionately shaped items or other oversized cargo. Flat racks boast great flexibility as they can be customised to your needs.

Open Side Containers

Open Side containers are unique in the sense that they allow one side to be fully opened. This makes them great for easy cargo loading from one side; e.g. items that are long or bulky or those which need to be loaded/unloaded quickly (events, exhibitions, construction sites, etc.).

High Cube Containers

A high cube container is typically a foot taller than a standard container, with the additional height allowing for greater load capacity. They are highly durable, being able to withstand temperature extremes as well as water damage, making them perfect for storing cargo in pallets, boxes, breakbulk loads, etc.

Tunnel Containers

Tunnel containers provide two access points, having two sets of standard double doors at each end – precisely as the name suggests. The two double doors on each side means they can be used as part storage allowing you to easily move, load or unload items from both sides.

Offshore Containers

These are specialised containers which are designed to help store equipment, machinery, and materials. Offshore containers are highly durable and have robust structures as they must withstand the force of being banged against other structures during ship-platform or ship-ship transfers.

Open-Top Containers

Open-top containers are designed with one goal in mind: to accommodate items that are too tall to load into standard container types. The removable top can be covered with a tarp during shipment and this container type is great for storing tall goods like timber, oversized machinery, or that which has protruding height.

Multidoor Containers

Some storage or home space projects may require a lot of versatility, and this is where our 20ft and 40ft multidoor containers offer a great degree of flexibility. This container type can cater to multi-functional requirements, such as when you need diverse access points or want to maximise the utility and potential of a single container space. They are perfect for storing equipment, business goods or small machinery.

Refrigerated Containers

Also called “reefers”, these are equipped with a fully operational refrigeration unit to help with the storage and transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. Therefore, they are ideal for transporting and storing perishable goods like food, dairy, pharma products, chemicals, etc.

Willbox is a leading name when it comes to a wide variety of shipping container solutions. Contact us now to discuss your requirements 0800 023 5060

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About Willbox

Willbox, part of the Williams Shipping Group, has over 25 years’ experience in container hire and new and used shipping container sales. We can supply containers to meet any need, including site accommodation, storage, and bespoke containers modified to your requirements, and our consultancy service is here to help you make the best choice.

We deliver nationwide from over 20 depots across the country – contact us now for fast and efficient container services.

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RoSPA
Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce
British Association of Removers
Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
M P B A
Construction Plant Hire Association
BIC
Road Haulage Association
Self Storage Association
Achilles
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