Shipping Containers

The most common mode of transport chosen is sea-freight. If you are considering this option but have worries about having your perishable items on board, then worry no more. Unknown to the layman, not every container is the same. There is something suited for different kinds of contents. Liquids, frozen food, heavy items – you name it. You can even opt to have one that is exclusive to you.

There are several types of containers available in the market to tailor to the different natures of the contents. They include:

Standard

Containers typically have doors at both ends, over their length at both sides, or all four sides. For heavy cargo, a container with a hard roof and/or platform (wooden floor with steel frame) may be used as they have higher loading capacity.

Ventilated

This type of container is designed for dry commodities that do not withstand excessive moisture, such as coffee beans. The top and bottom are railed so they have openings for ventilation. However, they are constructed to still remain weatherproof.

Tank

Tank containers are used to transport chemicals or drinkable liquids. The tank is equipped with insulation, heating, and sensor features to keep them at a constant temperature, where necessary. While they can withstand a certain amount of pressure, this type of containers should only be filled up to 96 per cent, in case of any heat expansion.

Insulated or refrigerated

This is where temperature-controlled perishables such as diaries, meats, fruits and vegetables should be contained. Depending on the nature of the goods, the contents in the container can either be chilled or frozen. The difference between an insulated and refrigerated is that the former is supplied cold air from the ship’s central cooling plant, while the latter has an in-built unit to control the temperature more accurately.