Marine Containers – What Are They and What Types Exist?
Marine Containers – What Are They and What Types Exist?
A marine container is a universal, large-capacity container for transporting all types of cargo. The biggest advantage of marine containers is that they can be easily transferred from a ship to an airplane or a semi-trailer. Marine containers vary by tonnage (which is taken into account when calculating the ship's loading), construction, and purpose.
Types of Marine Containers for Cargo Transport
Marine containers can be divided by purpose into the following types:
- Universal
- Bulk
- Platforms
- Thermo-insulated
- Ventilated
- Refrigerated
- Tanks
Universal containers are suitable for transporting standard goods that do not require special conditions and can easily be transported on pallets.
What is a Universal Marine Container Made of?
- A strong steel frame
- Sheet metal sheathing
Swing doors for convenient loading at the end or side.
They are available in sizes of 20, 40, or 45 feet. There are also variants with increased width and height, which should be taken into account when placing containers in a cargo space planner.
Bulk containers are also large metal boxes but are equipped with hatches for easy loading and unloading.
Platforms have no roof, and the walls are removable. This is convenient for transporting heavy, long cargo.
If goods need to retain heat for a long period, thermally insulated containers made with polystyrene are used. If goods need to be ventilated, natural or forced ventilation is necessary.
Refrigerated containers are used for transporting goods at specific (usually low) temperatures.
Tanks are cylindrical containers with a steel frame, allowing the round container to be easily transported by any mode of transport.
What is Inside a Marine Container?
As we can see, the design and components of different types can vary—some may be sealed, with removable tops or roofs.
But they all have one thing in common—the materials:
- The frame is made from strong steel profiles;
- The floor is made of wood;
- Internal panels are made from polymers or aluminum;
- Insulation is made of foam or polystyrene.
What is Transported in Marine Containers?
Everything that needs to be transported, including hazardous materials (strictly in accordance with the rules):
- Food products;
- Household goods;
- Machines;
- Household appliances;
- Cars;
- Petroleum products;
- Building materials, and much more.
