A container is a standardised transport unit used to store, protect, and move cargo across ocean, rail, road, and intermodal supply chains. In freight shipping, containers allow goods to be packed once and transferred between vessels, trains, trucks, terminals, and yards without handling each item individually. Common types include 20-foot, 40-foot, high cube, refrigerated, open-top, flat rack, and tank containers. Containers improve cargo security, loading efficiency, tracking, and global transport consistency.
Standard Container Sizes
- 20-foot standard (1 TEU): approx. 5.9m x 2.35m x 2.39m internal
- 40-foot standard (1 FEU): approx. 12.0m x 2.35m x 2.39m internal
- 40-foot High Cube (HC): same footprint with 0.30m extra height
- Refrigerated (Reefer): temperature-controlled for perishables
A 20-foot container holds approximately 25 to 28 CBM; a 40-foot holds 55 to 58 CBM. Maximizing fill reduces per-unit freight cost.
Learn more about Dedola’s ocean freight shipping services. Related terms: FCL, LCL.
