Page 218 - DMGT546_INTERNATIONAL_TRADE_PROCEDURE_AND_DOCUMENTATION

Unit 10: Containerization and Leasing Practices

Most of the containers have width of 8 ft. However, in height containers vary from 8ft to Notes
8Y2 ft. Presently about 75 percent of world box fleet have a height of 8Y2 ft. and about 20
per cent have a height of 8 ft. However, there is an increasing tendency to use containers
of 9Y2 ft (High cube)

Did u know? The most widely used type of container is the general purpose (dry cargo)
container having a nominal length and height of 20' x 8.5', 40' x 8.5', and 40' x 9.5'. Referring
to the Dimension of General Purpose Containers below, the dimensions shown in the
table are not fixed, that is, the external and internal dimensions may vary among containers
of the same length and height.
The container capacity is the total cube a container can accommodate. The term cube often
refers to the cubic measurement of cargo. The capacity (i.e., the internal volume) is
determined by multiplying the internal dimensions, that is, the product of internal length,
width and height. The capacity may vary among containers of the same length and height.
3. By use: Containers can also be classified by their uses. Containers maybe broadly classified
into three types by cargo to be stowed therein.

(a) The General Cargo Container: The General Cargo Container is the most representative
type for general cargo (packed cargo) that does not require temperature control.
This type occupies an overwhelming share of the total number of containers. The
type is called Dry Cargo Container in ordinary parlance. It is generally of the closed
van type with a door at one end.
These containers are closed and are suitable for the carriage of all types general
cargo both solid and liquid. Access for loading and unloading is through full width
doors. The dimensions of general-purpose containers as follows:
Table 10.1: Internal and External Dimensions of Cargo Containers

Oveall Dimensions Inside Dimensions Cubic Capacity
1. 20 × 8 × 8.5 ft. 5.98 × 2.34 × 2.400 mt. 32.7 m 3
2
2
(6.1x . 4x .6 mt)
2
2. 40 × 8 ×8.5 ft. 12.015 x 2.345 x 2.400 mt. 66.3 m 3
2
2
(12.2 x . 4 x . 6 mt)
2
Based on the length of the container, the container is generally known as a 20 ft
container or 40 ft. container in practice.
(b) The Thermal Container: The Thermal Container is designed for cargo requiring
refrigerated or insulated storage. It is covered with material of low heat transfer
such as polystyrene foam.
Thermal containers are classified into three types:
(i) Refrigerated (or Reefer) Container (for cooled foodstuffs, meat, fish vegetables
etc.)
It has insulated walls, doors, roof, and floor, which limit the range of
temperature loss or gain. It is used for perishable goods like meat, fruits and
vegetables
(ii) Insulated Containers for fruit, vegetables etc.

LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY 213