In international logistics and maritime shipping, aside from general-purpose containers (standard dry cargo containers), we occasionally also utilize special containers. Generally speaking, special containers are required when goods cannot be transported at ambient temperature or when the cargo dimensions exceed conventional sizes.
Do you know what types of goods are typically transported in special containers, and what kinds of special containers are available?
Cargo Transported in Special Containers
Special containers are primarily used to transport goods that cannot fit into standard containers (20ft/40ft/40ft HC) due to their size, weight, shape, or specific requirements.
The international transport of many large industrial products requires the use of special containers. These include steel coils, pipes, heavy equipment tires, construction machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, forklifts, as well as large vehicles, wind turbine components, and wind turbine blades. The following are some types of goods that typically require special containers for transport:
*Oversized Cargo: Goods that exceed the height, width, or length limitations of standard containers, such as large machinery, construction structures, and engineering equipment.
*Overweight Cargo: Goods that exceed the maximum load capacity of standard containers, such as heavy machinery and power generators.
*Irregularly Shaped Cargo: Goods with unconventional shapes that are not easy to load/unload within standard containers, such as pipes and bridge components.
*Exceptionally Tall Cargo: Goods that exceed the height of standard containers, such as large shelving units and tall construction materials.
Types of Special Containers
Special containers are modified and designed based on traditional containers to accommodate the transportation of special cargo or meet specific needs. The following are some common types of special containers used in international logistics and maritime shipping:
*Reefer Container: Suitable for goods that require low-temperature or frozen conditions, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Reefer containers are equipped with temperature-control systems to ensure the cargo maintains the required temperature throughout the journey.
*Open Top Container:Features a fully removable top, facilitating the loading and unloading of large equipment or cargo from above. It is suitable for extra-tall or extra-wide goods.
*Flat Rack Container: Constructed with a reinforced frame and sturdy corner posts, it is suitable for transporting extra-long or extra-wide cargo such as machinery, large tanks, or construction materials. They come in two variants: with collapsible sides and with fixed sides.
*Garmentainer (Hanging Garment Container): Specifically designed for transporting clothing and textiles, ensuring they remain undamaged during transit. The interior is fitted with hanging rails to keep garments neat and orderly.
*Tank Container:A specialized container used for transporting liquid or gaseous cargo. It is widely used for various liquid goods, such as chemicals, petroleum products, food-grade liquids, beverages, and liquefied gases.
The design and structure of these special containers cater to the unique requirements of different types of cargo, ensuring their safe and efficient arrival at the destination via sea transport.
Tips for Special Container Transport
*Dimensions and Weight: Ensure the cargo complies with the dimensional and weight limitations of the special container. Avoid exceeding the container's load capacity or using a container shape unsuitable for the cargo.
*Early Booking: Shipping lines often have a limited number of special containers available at certain ports. Sometimes, containers need to be repositioned from other ports to meet transportation needs. It is generally recommended to book special containers 10-14 days in advance (or even earlier during peak shipping seasons) to ensure the cargo is shipped smoothly.
*Packaging: Use appropriate packaging materials. The packaging design should meet the requirements for lifting and transportation, ensure cargo safety, and simultaneously minimize packaging size to save on shipping costs.
*Securement (Lashing & Fixing): For large/heavy cargo transport, proper securing within the special container is a crucial step. Use correct bases and, depending on the cargo's shape, employ methods such as screws, wooden braces, straps, or welding to fix the cargo securely inside the container. This ensures the cargo remains stable and safe during transit.
*Discharge at Destination Port: Consider the services and facilities at the destination port, such as unloading equipment and warehousing services, to ensure efficient and swift cargo discharge and distribution upon arrival.
During the sea freight process for special containers, several key considerations are crucial to ensure the safe and smooth transportation of goods.