由 caicai8478 I. Comparison of Core Container Types (for Large-Block Cargo)
For large-block cargo, you should primarily consider the following three types of containers:
Container Types: Standard Dry Container, Open Top Container (OT), Flat Rack Container (FR)
Structural Features: Fully enclosed, rigid roof, side-opening doors; No rigid roof, equipped with removable/bow-shaped roof beams and a tarpaulin roof; No roof, no side walls (or foldable end walls), only a floor and nose;
Loading and Unloading Methods: Can only be loaded through the standard side doors; Can be loaded from the top (e.g., crane) or the side doors; Can be lifted from multiple angles, including top and side, and forklifts;
Applicable Cargo: Regular large-block cargo whose dimensions strictly fit within the container door and interior limits; Extra-high cargo (e.g., large machinery and equipment, towers, steel structures); Extra-long, extra-wide, and extra-high heavy-block cargo (e.g., construction machinery, boilers, large pipelines, bridge components);
Advantages: The most common container, offering the lowest rental rates, provides comprehensive weather protection. It solves the problem of cargo exceeding the container door height, allowing for flexible loading and unloading. It has virtually no size restrictions and offers the highest loading capacity, making it ideal for irregularly shaped cargo.
Disadvantages: Fixed interior dimensions prevent oversized cargo from being accommodated. Rent is higher than standard container, requiring a lashing and secure canvas roof for rain protection. Highest rental costs, and cargo is fully exposed, requiring specialized waterproof and reinforced packaging.
Common sizes include: 20GP, 40GP, 40HQ (High Cube), 20OT, 40OT, 20FR, 40FR.
How do you choose the right container for your large cargo?
Please follow this decision-making process:
Step 1: Measure the cargo and determine if it is “oversized.”
This is the most critical step. Accurately measure the length, width, height, and weight of your cargo.
Comparison of Standard Container Internal Dimensions (Key Data):
20-foot General Container (20GP): Internal Length 5.9m x Internal Width 2.35m x Internal Height 2.39m | Load Capacity Approximately 28 tons
40-foot General Container (40GP): Internal Length 12.03m x Internal Width 2.35m x Internal Height 2.39m | Load Capacity Approximately 26 tons
40-foot High Quarter Container (40HQ): Internal Length 12.03m x Internal Width 2.35m x Internal Height 2.69m | Load Capacity Approximately 26 tons
Criteria:
Within Limits: If the dimensions (especially height) of your cargo are smaller than the internal height and width of the above-mentioned containers and the weight is within the weight limit, a standard dry cargo container (the 40HQ is the tallest) is preferred. This is the most economical and secure option.
Extra-high: If the cargo is of normal weight but exceeds the internal height of a dry container (e.g., equipment 2.8 meters high), but within the width and length limits, an open top container (OT) should be selected.
Extra-long, extra-wide, extra-heavy, or irregularly shaped: If any dimension of the cargo significantly exceeds the limits of a standard container, or if it requires loading and unloading from the side (e.g., a crawler excavator), a flatbed container/frame container (FR) must be selected.
Step 2: Consider the cargo’s properties and packaging.
Does it need to be rainproof and moisture-proof? If the cargo is precision equipment or requires moisture protection, the canvas roof of an open top container and the exterior cover of a flatbed container should be specially reinforced and the interior should be wrapped in plastic film for waterproofing. Standard containers offer the best sealing properties.
How will it be loaded and unloaded? Confirm whether the loading and unloading points at the destination are equipped with the appropriate lifting equipment (e.g., cranes, forklifts). Open top containers and flatbed containers require more stringent loading and unloading conditions.
Step 3: Consult your freight forwarder.
This is the most important step. Before making a final decision, be sure to provide your freight forwarder with the detailed dimensions (three dimensions and weight) of your cargo. They can help you:
Provide professional advice: Based on experience, determine the most suitable and economical container type.
Confirm feasibility: Check whether equipment is available at the destination port and along the transportation route to load and unload special containers.
Accurate quote: Freight and rental rates for special containers (OT, FR) are significantly higher than those for standard containers. Freight forwarders can provide you with a precise all-inclusive price.
Arrange special containers: Help you reserve relatively scarce special containers with shipping companies.
III. Other Considerations
Lashing & Securing:
For all large cargo, especially those transported in OT and FR containers, professional lashing and securing are essential. Otherwise, the cargo can easily shift during sea transport, causing damage to the cargo and even the vessel.
This work is usually performed by the shipper at the factory, but your freight forwarder can recommend a professional lashing company.
Customs declaration and clearance:
The declared product name, dimensions, and weight must be exactly the same as the actual weight.
Providing clear photos of the cargo and packaging will facilitate customs clearance for exports from China and destination countries in Southeast Asia. Overgauge Proof:
If you use a flat rack container for shipping, your cargo may exceed the width of the vessel, making it considered overgauge cargo. Shipping companies will require photos and dimensions of the cargo, and may require an additional overgauge surcharge.
IV. Summary Recommendations
Regular and large items that fit through the container doors → Choose a 40-foot high cabinet (40HQ) to maximize its internal height.
Excessive height → Choose an open top container (OT) for the convenience of top-loading.
Long, wide, heavy, and irregularly sized items → Without hesitation, choose a flat rack container (FR), a solution tailored for heavy and large items.
Finally, it’s important to maintain close communication with your freight forwarder and provide as much detailed cargo information as possible. Their professional advice is crucial for making the best choice and ensuring a smooth transport.