Diffrent Types of Freight Containers
Shipping Freight Containers

Different Types of Freight Containers Explained: A Complete Guide for Shippers & Businesses

Whether you are a small business owner, e-commerce seller, or logistics manager, if you choose the wrong container, it can lead to damaged goods, missed deadlines, and wasted budget.

That’s why we have made this guide to help you narrow down your options when looking for the right container and avoid mismatched specs, awkward loading, or unnecessary upgrades.

In this blog, we will explore all the main types of shipping freight containers, what they are used for, and how to pick the right one for your cargo. Here you will learn about:

  • The most common container types and their key uses
  • Which type suits bulky, fragile, temperature-sensitive, or oversized cargo
  • Practical questions to ask before you commit to a container type or size

How to Choose the Right Freight Container Type

Even before we get into the different types of freight containers, it will be helpful for you if you have answers to most of the following questions:

  1. What is the primary function of the container going to be?
  2. Does the cargo need strict temperature control?
  3. Does the cargo have an irregular shape, is it oversized or extra tall?
  4. Are the goods hazardous, fragile, or of high-value?
  5. What are the exact size, weight, and shape limits of the payload?
  6. How will items enter and exit the container?
  7. Can a delivery truck or crane physically access the final site?
  8. What are the local building codes, zoning laws, or port rules?
  9. What is the total budget, including delivery, modifications, and setup?

Your answers will help narrow down the options for the most suitable container type.

What Are the Different Types of Freight Containers?

These are some of the most common types of freight containers you will find in the market:

1.    Standard Dry Freight Containers

Standard dry containers are the most common shipping freight containers in the world. They feature solid steel walls, a secure roof, and double cargo doors at one end.

Common Sizes:

  • 10ft containers
  • 20ft containers
  • 40ft containers

Best Uses:

  • General freight transportation
  • Business inventory storage
  • Building material storage
  • Tool and equipment storage
  • Household storage

Advantages:

  • Most affordable option
  • Widely available
  • Strong security
  • Weather-resistant design
  • Suitable for transport and storage

In the UK, standard 20 ft and 40 ft dry containers are widely used for imports, exports, and on‑site storage.

2.   High Cube Freight Containers

A high cube freight container is similar to a standard container but offers additional internal height. Typically, these containers provide approximately one extra foot of headroom.

Best For:

  • Bulky equipment
  • Tall inventory
  • Warehouse overflow storage
  • Container offices
  • Conversion projects

Advantages:

  • Greater internal volume
  • More flexibility for storage
  • Less cramped when converted
  • Better space efficiency

If height restrictions affect your project, a high cube container may provide better value than a standard unit.

3.    Refrigerated Freight Containers (Reefers)

Refrigerated freight containers, well known as reefers, have built-in cooling systems to keep products within a specified temperature range.

Best Uses:

  • Food storage
  • Frozen products
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Medical supplies
  • Agricultural products

Advantages:

  • Temperature control
  • Product protection
  • Suitable for long-distance transport
  • Consistent storage conditions

Businesses that handle perishable goods often rely on refrigerated containers to maintain product quality throughout transport and storage.

4.    Side Opening Freight Containers

A side-opening container includes full-length doors along one side of the unit. This design provides significantly easier access than traditional end-opening containers.

Best For:

  • Storing long equipment
  • Palletised goods storage
  • Keeping retail stock
  • Machinery storage
  • Workshop conversions

Advantages:

  • Easier loading and unloading
  • Improved access to stored goods
  • Better organisation
  • Convenient for frequent use

If you regularly access stored items, a side-opening container can save considerable time and effort.

5.    Open Top Freight Containers

Open top containers replace the fixed steel roof with a removable cover. This design allows cargo to enter from above.

Best Uses:

  • Large machinery storage
  • Storing industrial equipment
  • Storing construction materials
  • Oversized cargo storage
  • Tall freight storage or transport

Advantages:

  • Crane loading capability
  • Accommodation of oversized items
  • Flexible loading options
  • Suitable for unusual cargo dimensions

Many industries use open-top containers if traditional container doors create loading restrictions.

6.    Flat Rack Freight Containers

Flat rack containers remove the side walls entirely and often feature collapsible end walls. This creates an open platform for transporting large cargo.

Best Uses:

  • Storing vehicles
  • Heavy machinery storage
  • Construction equipment storage
  • Storing industrial components
  • Large engineering projects

Advantages:

  • Suitable for oversized cargo
  • Easy loading from multiple directions
  • High weight capacity
  • Flexible securing options

Businesses transporting unusually large equipment often choose flat rack containers because standard containers simply cannot accommodate the load.

7.    Tunnel (Double Door) Containers

Tunnel containers provide doors at both ends and create a straight passage through the container.

Best Uses:

  • Fast loading operations
  • Distribution centres
  • Construction sites
  • Warehousing applications

Advantages:

  • Dual access points
  • Faster loading and unloading
  • Improved accessibility
  • Better workflow efficiency

Speed and accessibility are often the plus points of tunnel containers in specific situations.

8.    Insulated Freight Containers

Insulated containers contain thermal protection within the walls, roof, and floor. Unlike refrigerated units, they do not actively cool the contents but reduce heat transfer.

Best Uses:

  • Storing temperature-sensitive products
  • Equipment protection
  • Chemical storage
  • Food storage

Advantages:

  • Temperature stability
  • Reduced condensation
  • Lower energy requirements
  • Protection from extreme temperatures

Insulated containers provide an effective solution when active refrigeration is unnecessary.

9.    Offshore Freight Containers

Offshore containers support operations in demanding environments such as oil platforms and marine projects.

Manufacturers build them to withstand extreme conditions and heavy lifting.

Best Uses:

  • Offshore energy projects
  • Marine operations
  • Industrial environments
  • Specialist logistics

Advantages:

  • Enhanced structural strength
  • Increased safety standards
  • High durability
  • Heavy-duty performance

Most will never need offshore containers, but they are one of the essentials within specialist industries.

10.   Modified Freight Containers

Many businesses choose modified containers instead of purchasing traditional buildings. Container modifications can transform a basic steel box into a practical workspace.

Popular Modifications:

  • Personnel doors
  • Windows
  • Electrical installations
  • Lighting systems
  • Insulation
  • Ventilation
  • Internal partitions
  • Roller shutters

Common Applications:

  • Site offices
  • Workshops
  • Retail units
  • Cafés
  • Welfare units
  • Studios
  • Storage facilities

The flexibility of modified containers explains why container conversions continue to grow in popularity.

Note: This list is an overview for freight containers. If you are looking for precise specifications, weight limits, and local regulations, connect with us at London Shipping Containers.

Why London Shipping Containers Could be the Right Choice

At London Shipping Containers, we supply a wide range of shipping freight containers for commercial and domestic uses.

We offer:

  • New and used containers
  • 8ft, 10ft, 20ft, 30ft, and 40ft size options
  • Standard and specialist container types
  • Expert advice before purchase
  • Flexible hire and purchase options
  • Fast delivery across London and the UK
  • Bespoke modification services

Whether you need secure storage, freight transportation, or a custom conversion, contact our team to get expert advice.

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Local vs National Shipping Container Companies: Which Is Better?
Shipping Container News

Local vs National Shipping Container Companies: Which Is Better?

Shipping container size, type, new or used, type of modification, and whether to buy or rent — once everything is clear. What remains is deciding whether you should choose a local or national shipping container supplier in the UK. 

This decision is crucial, as it will impact prices, delivery speed, and much more. Perhaps you are unsure whether you should go for a large company or a local supplier for better support. The truth is, both local and national shipping container companies have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific needs. 

That’s why we have written this blog. It will help you understand the differences clearly so that you can choose a supplier that meets your needs. 

What Is the Difference Between Local and National Container Companies? 

Before we go into the details, let’s take a quick look at the differences you should care about: 

Feature  Local Supplier  National Supplier 
Delivery Cost  Generally lower because of proximity  Can be higher if they don’t have a local depot 
Inventory  Limited to common sizes (10ft, 20ft, 40ft)  High variety (Tunnel units, high cubes, etc.) 
Inspection  Can easily visit to see the exact unit  You often need to rely on images and grade descriptions 
Modifications  Basic modifications like lock boxes, painting, etc.  Advanced modifications like full office or mini pool conversions 
Customer Service  Direct, personal relationship  Standardised corporate process 

Now that you have a basic idea, let’s get into the details of their unique advantages. 

Advantages of Choosing a Local Shipping Container Company 

If you choose a local shipping container supplier in the UK, you can expect: 

In-Person Quality Checks 

Buying a container (especially a used one) without inspecting it in person can be a little risky. Local suppliers often allow you to personally inspect units and choose the exact container you want. 

Significant Savings on Delivery 

National suppliers charge per-mile haulage fees when transporting containers from depots that may be far away from your location. With local suppliers, you can often avoid that and save significantly. 

Tailored Customer Service 

Local suppliers are often more focused on customer satisfaction because they rely on their regional reputation. During communication, you may be able to speak with the same person throughout the process, which definitely helps. Moreover, local suppliers may be familiar with the specific delivery challenges in your area, which is a plus. 

Simpler Maintenance and Returns 

Local suppliers can help with maintenance or any issues after delivery more quickly and often at a lower cost than national suppliers. 

Advantages of Choosing a National Shipping Container Company 

When it comes to scale, variety, and specialised services, local suppliers often struggle to match national shipping container companies. From a national supplier, you should expect: 

Warranties, Certifications, and Transparency 

National shipping container suppliers often provide ISO compliance certificates and wind and watertight guarantees. They also generally have an all-inclusive pricing structure with no hidden charges. 

Integrated Depot Networks 

Even when a company operates nationally, it will often source your container from the closest depot to your location to help keep transport costs low. A national supplier is ideal as a single point of contact for large-scale contractors with multiple projects across the UK. 

Custom Modification Capabilities 

While local suppliers may stop at basic painting and lock boxes, national suppliers can offer bespoke transformations such as modular housing, full office conversions, or swimming pools. If you come to a major provider with a design, they can usually build it. 

Greater Inventory Availability 

Apart from custom modifications, national suppliers usually manage thousands of units. So, if you need something beyond a standard 20 ft steel container, such as Flat Racks, High Cubes, or refrigerated units, a national supplier is more likely to have it ready for dispatch. 

Local or National Shipping Container Suppliers: Factors You Need to Consider 

When choosing between a local or national supplier, there are clear trade-offs. Once you understand these factors, which are mentioned below, making a decision becomes much simpler: 

Stock and Customisation 

While local suppliers may have limited stock, they often allow customers to inspect containers in person. This is especially valuable when buying used containers. 

National suppliers typically hold much larger and more diverse inventories. Whether you need a Side Open container or a High Cube, they are more likely to have it in stock. On top of that, larger suppliers are generally better equipped to carry out custom modifications. 

Pricing and Rental Plans 

Whether you are hiring or buying a shipping container can also influence your choice between local and national suppliers. For example, if you are renting, national suppliers may offer more flexible hire plans. 

However, if you are buying, you may save on delivery costs by choosing a local supplier. 

Which Option Is Better for Your Specific Needs?

At this point, you perhaps understand that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best option depends on your situation. 

Choose a local supplier if: 

  • You want lower transport costs 
  • A local supplier who is better equipped to solve a specific access issue 
  • You need fast delivery 

Choose a national supplier if: 

  • You need multiple containers 
  • You need multiple containers at different locations across the UK 
  • You require custom modifications 
  • You want quality guarantees and a wider range of options 

Why London Shipping Containers Offers the Best of Both

At London Shipping Containers, we combine the advantages of both local and national suppliers. Here’s how: 

Strong Local Presence 

We have stock available in and around London, so you can expect fast and efficient deliveries. Moreover, our team is experienced in handling challenging urban deliveries. 

Nationwide Delivery 

What sets London Shipping Containers apart is our nationwide reach. This allows us to offer you unmatched flexibility, no matter where your site is located. 

Wide Range of Containers 

We have almost all types of containers, from 8ft to 40ft containers, new and used, CSC-plated for shipping or wind and watertight, all constructed from high-tensile, anti-corrosion Corten steel. This means, you can choose from a wide variety of options to suit your needs. 

Flexible Hire and Purchase Options 

We offer flexible shipping container hire plans, as well as competitive purchase options. Our rates are competitive, but our standards are always high. 

Expert Guidance 

We have been successfully supplying new and used shipping containers for many years. If you have any questions, simply contact us, and one of our experts will help you find the right solution quickly. 

This combination makes it easier to get the right container without compromising on cost, speed, or service. 

London Shipping Containers can help you find the right solution based on your needs. Whether you want to hire or buy, our team is ready to guide you through the process. 

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and straightforward advice