Intermodal containers, also known as shipping containers, are large standardized steel boxes used for the transportation of goods. They have revolutionized the shipping industry, allowing goods to be transported across long distances in a safe and efficient manner.
The purpose of this blog post is to explain the various dimensions of intermodal containers and their intended specific uses. Knowing these sizes is crucial for those working in the shipping industry, as it helps you select the most appropriate container for your specific requirements.
The Functionality of Intermodal Containers
An intermodal or ISO shipping container is a container that meets standards ISO and is suitable for storing and transporting materials and equipment in a global containerized intermodal freight transport system.
Typically, intermodal containers are used for transporting the following items:
- Cargo that is resistant to spoilage, such as manufactured goods.
- Intermodal transportation of temperature-sensitive perishable items, including chilled and frozen cargo like seafood, meat, agricultural products, and medicines.
- Cargo that is not likely to spoil but could potentially sustain damage during transportation due to condensation, such as coffee and cocoa.
- Transport of oversized cargo, such as construction materials, heavy machinery, and lumber.
- Bulk shipping of hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals, oils, liquids, and food commodities.
TEU - Twenty-foot- Equivalent Unit
A standard twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU) intermodal container is typically 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8 feet in height. The compartment can accommodate between 9 to 11 pallets, depending on whether the pallets are standard or EUR-shaped.
A forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU) measures 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8 feet high. The container has the capacity to hold anywhere between 20 and 24 pallets, depending on the type of pallets used, be it either standard or EUR-shaped.
Intermodal Container Types and Sizes
Standard Dry Intermodal Containers
A Standard Dry Intermodal Container, which is also known as a general-purpose container, is used to transport various types of manufactured goods and materials.
- 10 Ft Intermodal Container
This type of dry intermodal container is the smallest available. Its maximum weight capacity is 11,600 pounds and it measures 10ft in length, 8ft in width, and 8ft 6in height. It is ideal for carrying small and medium-sized items and is suitable for transporting goods on foot.
- 20 Ft Intermodal Container
This is the most popular option for cargo transportation and is capable of carrying up to 33,000 lbs. Its standard measurements are 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8 feet 6 inches in height, which enables it to hold around 10-12 standard pallets.
- 40 Ft Intermodal Container
This container is great for shipping large items weighing up to 45,000 lbs. It is approximately 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet 6 inches tall. With the ability to hold 25-30 standard pallets, it is an efficient option for shipping high quantities.
- 40 Ft High Cube Intermodal Container
The dimensions of these intermodal containers are 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 9 feet 6 inches in height. They are one foot taller than standard 40-foot containers and offer an additional 800 cubic feet of storage capacity.
- 45 Ft High Cube Intermodal Container
These containers are bigger and have extra storage space compared to regular ones. But, they’re not always easy to find because they’re not as common. The 45ft High Cube Containers are great for storing tall items.
Other Types of Intermodal Containers
Refrigerated Intermodal Container
Refrigerated Intermodal Containers, also known as Reefers, have a sturdy construction of stainless steel and aluminum. Equipped with a strong electric cooling system, they create a well-insulated R30 environment, providing temperature control. These containers are well-suited for transporting perishable items over long distances since they regulate temperature effectively from -15 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring that the goods remain safe.
The 20 ft option has a length of 20 feet, a width of 8 feet 6 inches, and a height of 7 feet 4 inches. Similarly, the 40 ft option has a length of 40 feet, a width of 8 feet 6 inches, and a height of 8 feet 2 inches.
Open-top Intermodal Container
Open-top intermodal containers do not have metal roofs and can accommodate taller objects or items that may not fit in standard containers. To secure the cargo during transport, these containers often feature a detachable tarp or cover. Typically, open-top containers are available in either 20-foot dimensions of 8 feet 6 inches width by 7 feet 4 inches height or 40-foot dimensions of 8 feet 6 inches width by 8 feet 2 inches height.
Open Side Intermodal Container
The open-side intermodal containers have cargo doors that open on the side, making it easier to load and unload big or heavy items that can’t fit through the end doors. They come in two sizes: a 20-foot one that’s 8 feet 6 inches wide and 7 feet 4 inches tall, and a larger 40-foot one that’s 8 feet 6 inches wide and 8 feet 2 inches tall.
Flat Rack Intermodal Containers
Flat Rack intermodal containers are ideal for carrying bulky items like boats, vehicles, and machinery due to their flat base and collapsible walls. There are two sizes of containers available: one is 40 ft long, 8 ft 6 inches wide, and 8 ft 2 inches high, while the other is smaller with dimensions of 20 ft length, 6 ft 5 inches width, and 6 ft 1-inch height that is better for lighter loads.
Tank Intermodal Containers
Intermodal ISO tanks, also called tank containers, are specialized storage units used for transporting gases and other liquids. These tanks are made of stainless steel and comply with international safety standards. Equipped with an ISO frame, they are easy to handle, whether the contents are hazardous or not.
The available sizes are 20 feet (6.1 meters) in length, 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 meters) in width, 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 meters) in height, and 40 feet (12.2 meters) in length, 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 meters) in width, and 8 feet 2 inches (2.49 meters) in height.
Duo-Con Intermodal Containers
Duo-Con intermodal containers are a good option for businesses that require a 10-foot storage area. These containers are 20 feet long, 8 feet 6 inches wide, and 7 feet 4 inches in height that can be converted into two 10-foot units by removing particular panels. In addition, these containers have front walls that need to be welded on, converting them into standard metal boxes that are appropriate for use as typical 10-foot shipping containers.
Intermodal Container Chassis
Intermodal container chassis or also referred to as special trailers are used to transport shipping containers. The standard size for a chassis is 20 feet long, 8 feet 6 inches wide and 9 feet 6 inches tall. For 40 ft long containers, there are chassis variants available that are 8 ft 6 inches wide and 9 ft 6 inches tall. Using an intermodal container chassis is advantageous because it can transport multiple containers at once, reducing turnaround times in comparison to other transportation methods.
On-Site Storage Solutions offers a diverse selection of intermodal storage shipping container dimensions and types that are capable of fulfilling all your storage requirements. We also have specialized and refrigerated containers that are available to cater to your specific needs. If you are interested in finding the perfect container, please do not hesitate to contact our customer service team at 888-405-8772.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The standard size of a shipping container varies, but commonly used sizes include 20 feet, and 40 feet in length. The width is typically around 8 feet, and the height is 8 feet 6 inches.
Yes, there are different types of intermodal containers with specific dimensions such as standard, high cube, open top, or refrigerated units, which have their own unique dimensions in terms of height, weight, and length.
Intermodal container dimensions directly affect cargo capacity. Containers with larger lengths and widths can accommodate more cargo volume. For example, a 40-foot container has significantly higher capacity compared to a 20-foot container. However, it’s crucial to consider weight limitations and comply with regulations to avoid overloading the container.
