How do you decide between a standard or a high-cube container for your cargo?

1 What are standard and high-cube containers?

Standard containers are the most widely used containers in the world. They have a length of 20 or 40 feet, a width of 8 feet, and a height of 8 feet 6 inches. They can carry up to 28 or 56 cubic meters of cargo, depending on the length. High-cube containers are similar to standard containers, except that they have a height of 9 feet 6 inches. This means they can carry up to 32 or 67 cubic meters of cargo, depending on the length. High-cube containers are also available in 45 feet length, which can hold up to 77 cubic meters of cargo.

2 What are the benefits of standard containers?

Standard containers are cheaper, more available, and more versatile than high-cube containers. They are easier to find and book, especially in peak seasons or remote locations. They are also compatible with more modes of transportation, such as trucks, trains, and ships. They can fit in most loading and unloading facilities, and they comply with most regulations and standards. Standard containers are ideal for dense or heavy cargo, such as metals, machinery, or stones, as they can maximize the weight capacity without wasting space.

3 What are the benefits of high-cube containers?

High-cube containers are more spacious, more efficient, and more flexible than standard containers. They can accommodate up to 13% more cargo volume than standard containers, which means you can ship more goods with fewer containers. This can reduce your shipping costs and your environmental impact. High-cube containers are also suitable for light or bulky cargo, such as furniture, textiles, or toys, as they can optimize the space capacity without exceeding the weight limit. High-cube containers can also be modified or customized for specific purposes, such as refrigeration, insulation, or ventilation.

4 How do you compare the costs of standard and high-cube containers?

The costs of standard and high-cube containers depend on several factors, such as the supply and demand, the origin and destination, the season and the market, and the carrier and the service. Generally speaking, high-cube containers are more expensive than standard containers, as they are less common and more in demand. However, the price difference may vary depending on the route and the time. You should always compare the quotes from different providers and consider the total cost of ownership, not just the initial price. You should also factor in the potential savings from shipping more cargo with fewer containers.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?