Containers
If your shipment is large enough (generally over 850 cubic feet), it may be more cost effective to ship in a container. Containers are large metal boxes that are loaded onto steamships for international transit. They come in the following sizes:
Container Sizes
CONTAINER SIZE | 20’ Dry Standard | 40’ Dry Standard | 40’ Hi-Cube |
INNER DIMENSIONS | Length: 5.97 meters 19’7″ Height: 2.26 meters 7’5″ Width: 2.34 meters 7’8” | Length:12.07 meters 39’7″ Height: 2.39 meters 7’10” Width: 2.34 meters 7’8″ | Length:12.07 meters 39’7” Height: 2.67 meters 8’10” Width: 2.34 meters 7’8” |
| CUBIC CAPACITY | 31.1 cbm; 1100 cft | 62.3 cbm; 2200 cft | 70.8 cbm; 2500 cft |
| DOOR OPENING | Height: 2.159 meters 7’1″ Width: 2.34 meters 7’8″ | Height: 2.29 meters 7’6″ Width: 2.34 meters 7’8″ | Height: 2.59 meters 8’6” Width: 2.34 meters 7”8” |
| OUTER DIMENSIONS | Length: 6.096 meters 20’0″ Height: 2.438 meters 8’0″ Width: 2.438 meters 8’0” | Length:12.19 meters 40’0″ Height: 2.59 meters 8’6″ Width: 2.438 meters 8’0″ | Length: 12.19 meters 40’0” Height: 2.896 meters 9’6” Width: 2.438 meters 8’0” |
*cbm = cubic meter; cft = cubic feet
Rates for containers are quoted in flat amounts, or on the actual weight and volume of your shipment – It is important to clarify this when you receive your quote.
Advantages to choosing containers vs. liftvans are:
- The price per cubic foot will be less
- You will have more control over ports used
- Transit time will be quicker
Note: The main disadvantage of containers is storage. Since the steamship lines own the containers, we cannot hold on to them for more than approx. one week in before sailing or after arrival without incurring additional charges (called storage and demurrage). When shipping a full container, you must be able to ship and receive your container right away. If storage is required, you will need to let us know in advance so we can evaluate your best options.
