How to choose the right container? These key points and examples will help you easily get it done!

The use of containers has become very common in fields such as logistics transportation, moving, trade, and construction. However, with so many types of containers available, how do you choose the one that is most suitable for you? Today, we will discuss the key points for selecting containers and provide specific cases, hoping to help you easily solve this problem!

I. Key Points for Selecting Containers

(1) Consider Cargo Factors

1. Cargo Size and Weight

Before selecting a container, it is essential to accurately measure the length, width, height, and total volume of the cargo, and estimate the total weight. For example, if you are transporting a large number of small electronic products, a 20-foot standard dry container will be sufficient; however, if you are transporting large machinery or oversized goods like yachts, you may need a 40-foot high cube or frame container. Additionally, be sure to pay attention to the weight limit regulations for containers; a 20-foot container generally has a weight limit of around 28 tons, while a 40-foot container has a limit of about 30 tons.

2. Cargo Characteristics

Different goods have different characteristics, and it is necessary to choose the appropriate container to ensure safe transportation. For moisture-sensitive items like precision instruments and high-end clothing, choose a container that is well-sealed and has moisture-proof measures; for transporting perishable items like frozen food and fresh flowers, a refrigerated container is essential; for hazardous goods like chemicals, containers that meet hazardous material transportation standards must be used, along with appropriate safety markings and protective equipment.

---

(2) Consider Transportation Factors

1. Transportation Distance and Route

The transportation distance and route also have a significant impact on the choice of container. Long-distance sea transport may face harsh sea conditions, requiring a container that is structurally strong and has good resistance to wind and waves; short-distance land transport or inland waterway transport has relatively lower requirements for wind and wave resistance. If the transportation route passes through high-temperature areas, consider the container's thermal insulation performance; if it passes through high-humidity areas, focus on moisture-proof performance.

2. Transportation Method

Different transportation methods have different requirements for containers. Sea transport has high requirements for the waterproof and pressure-resistant performance of containers; rail transport has specific standards for container size and weight limits; road transport needs to consider the compatibility of the container with the transport vehicle. If the goods need to be transported using multiple methods, it is also necessary to choose containers that meet the standards for multimodal transport.

---

(3) Consider Cost Factors

1. Purchase or Rental Costs

The cost of purchasing a container is relatively high, with the price of a 20-foot used container ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, and new ones being even more expensive; a 40-foot container costs about 20%-50% more than a 20-foot one. Renting a container is charged daily, with the daily rental for a 20-foot container generally between $5 and $15, and for a 40-foot container between $8 and $20. If used for a short period, renting is more cost-effective; for long-term use with high frequency, purchasing may be more economical.

2. Transportation Costs

Different types and sizes of containers have different transportation costs. Full container load transport is suitable for large volumes of goods, while less-than-container load transport is suitable for smaller volumes. Additionally, consider loading and unloading costs, insurance costs, etc.; special types of containers may have higher loading and unloading difficulties, leading to higher costs.

---

(4) Consider Other Factors

1. Container Quality

When selecting a container, it is crucial to carefully check the exterior for any deformation, damage, or rust, whether the doors can open and close properly, if the seal is good, and whether the floor is flat and sturdy, without any rot or damage. Regarding the internal structure, check whether the corner fittings, rails, and other components are intact, and if there are any issues like poor welding or cracks.

2. Supplier Reputation and Service

Choosing a supplier with a good reputation and rich experience is very important. You can assess this by looking at customer reviews, industry reputation, and years of operation. Quality suppliers can provide timely consultation, maintenance, and support services, as well as professional assistance in transportation arrangements, customs declaration, and inspection.

---

II. Specific Cases for Selecting Containers

(1) Moving Scenarios

Case 1: International Student Xiao Li's Moving Journey

International student Xiao Li is moving from Shanghai to Sydney, with a total volume of about 8 cubic meters. Since the volume of items is not large, he chose the shared container method, sharing a container with other goods, and the goods arrived in 67 days. Shared containers are suitable for transporting small volume goods and can save costs.

Case 2: Moving Choices for a Family of Four

A family of four plans to move, with a total volume of 23 cubic meters. Initially considering shared containers, but worried about long waiting times, they later opted for a 20GP full container, which reached the destination in just over two months. For medium volume goods, if time efficiency is a high requirement, choosing a 20GP full container is more appropriate.

Case 3: Full House Furniture Moving for a Large Family

A family needs to move the furniture of a three-bedroom, two-living-room house, with a large volume of about 28 cubic meters. They chose a 20GP full container for sea transport, ensuring the safety of the items and meeting transportation time requirements.

---

(2) Trade Scenarios

Case 1: Export Choices for a Clothing Company

A clothing company needs to export a batch of autumn and winter clothing to Europe, with a total volume of about 45 cubic meters, and the clothing is sensitive to moisture and dirt. The company chose a 40HQ container because of its large internal space, which can accommodate all the goods, and its good sealing can effectively prevent seawater, rain, and other elements from damaging the clothing during transport, ensuring the quality of the goods.

Case 2: Large Equipment Transport for a Machinery Manufacturing Company

A machinery manufacturing company needs to transport a large piece of machinery to Africa. The equipment is large, weighing about 25 tons, and a standard dry container cannot meet the requirements. After evaluation, the company chose a frame container. The frame container has no top or side walls, allowing for loading and unloading from the sides and top, making it convenient for hoisting and securing large machinery, ensuring the safety of the equipment during transport.

Case 3: Hazardous Material Transport for a Chemical Company

A chemical company needs to transport a batch of liquid chemicals to Southeast Asia. These chemicals have certain hazards and require special transport containers. The company chose tank containers, which are specifically designed for transporting liquids, gases, and other bulk goods, featuring good sealing and safety, equipped with corresponding loading and unloading valves and safety devices, meeting the requirements for hazardous materials transportation.

---

(3) Construction Scene

Case 1: Temporary Holiday House in a Tourist Area

In a tourist area, a temporary holiday house needs to be built. Due to the beautiful environment of the area, there are high requirements for the mobility and environmental friendliness of the building, so the construction party chose a single green container. The exterior is designed to blend with the natural environment, and the interior is simply decorated, equipped with basic living facilities, which not only meets the accommodation needs of tourists but also does not significantly impact the environment of the scenic area, and can be easily dismantled and moved when not needed.

Case 2: Multifunctional Coffee House on Campus

A school wants to add a coffee house on campus to meet the leisure and study needs of students. Finally, a double-layer container was adopted, with the lower layer in yellow and the upper layer in black, creating a striking and vibrant appearance. The interior is decorated according to functional zones, with the yellow lower layer serving as the dining area of the coffee house and the black upper layer as the study and rest area for students, making full use of the container's space to create a multifunctional social space on campus.

---

3. Summary

Choosing the right container requires comprehensive consideration of cargo characteristics, transportation needs, cost factors, as well as the quality of the container and the service of the supplier. Through the analysis of the above points and cases, I hope to provide you with some references. Whether in moving, trade, or construction scenarios, selecting the appropriate container can not only ensure the safety of goods but also improve transportation efficiency and reduce costs. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a message for discussion, and let's communicate together!

Service Hotline: 0755-82171929   13560787209   

WeChat QR Code