Home / Logistics Knowledge / FCL Container Types and Sizes: 20ft, 40ft, 40HC, Reefer, Open-Top, Flat-Rack
Most FCL shipments move in a standard dry box, but special cargo needs a special container. Here are the main types, their sizes, and when to use each.
The general-purpose dry container is the default for boxed, palletized, and crated cargo. The 20ft is best for heavy or smaller shipments; the 40ft carries roughly double the volume at a lower cost per cubic metre.
| Type | Internal volume | Max payload (approx.) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft dry | about 33 CBM | 28,000 kg | Heavy or dense cargo, smaller loads |
| 40ft dry | about 67 CBM | 26,000 to 28,000 kg | Voluminous general cargo |
The 40HC is one foot taller than a standard 40ft box, giving about 76 CBM of space. It is the cheapest way to move light, bulky goods by volume. Payload is similar to a standard 40ft.
A reefer is a temperature-controlled container with its own cooling unit, plugged into the ship's power. Use it for food, pharmaceuticals, and other cargo that must stay within a temperature range. Pre-cooling and a continuous cold chain at the warehouse and port are essential.
An open-top has a removable tarpaulin roof instead of a solid top, so cargo can be loaded from above by crane. It suits tall machinery, pipes, and bulk goods that will not fit through standard doors. A weatherproof cover is secured for the voyage.
A flat-rack is a floor with end walls, or no walls, and no sides or roof, built for heavy or over-dimensional cargo such as vehicles, large machinery, and steel structures. Out-of-gauge pieces are strapped directly to the bed.
A 20ft dry box holds about 33 CBM and roughly 28,000 kg; a 40ft holds about 67 CBM at a similar payload. Actual fit depends on pallet size, stacking, and how tightly you load.
The 40HC is about one foot taller, adding roughly 9 CBM of volume. Choose the 40HC for light, bulky cargo; choose the standard 40ft when height or weight limits matter.
Whenever the cargo must be kept within a set temperature range in transit, such as fresh food, frozen goods, or many pharmaceuticals. The cold chain must be maintained from stuffing to delivery.
Tall or wide pieces that exceed the door opening need an open-top or flat-rack instead. A flat-rack also handles very heavy items that would overload a standard floor.
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