Shipping container dimensions 

The number of shipping containers in the world is roughly

17M in circulation

(Source: Statista)

Shipping container wall thickness

Shipping container wall thickness is typically around 1.6mm to 2mm (0.06 to 0.079in). They are made from durable, corrosion-resistant steel to allow for strength and flexibility — essential for withstanding the rigours of multimodal international shipping. Container roofs usually have similar thicknesses and are made from the same materials. Floors are made from wood and are generally thicker, averaging around 28mm (1.1in) for additional load-bearing support.

What are reefer containers? 

Reefer containers, also known as refrigerated containers, enable the transportation of perishable goods requiring consistent temperature control. Commonly transported items include fresh produce, frozen meat, dairy products, plants, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. 
 
Reefers come in 20-ft, 40-ft and high-cube versions and feature insulated walls and refrigeration units powered by external electrical sources or generators. They ensure delicate goods remain fresh and intact during transit over multiple modes, long distances and varying climates. 
 
Some reefers have multi-temperature zones, allowing the transport of different products within a single container. This adaptability makes them essential tools in global trade and helps businesses meet strict quality standards, such as those set by the International Maritime Organization.

How do reefer containers work? 

Reefer containers work by regulating temperatures using an integrated refrigeration unit. The unit circulates cooled air through the reefer's interior to maintain a consistent climate and prevent spoilage. 
 
Each unit typically includes: 

• A compressor that circulates refrigerant to cool the air. 
• A condenser to release heat. 
• An evaporator that absorbs heat to maintain a cool temperature. 

The refrigeration unit draws power from its modes of transport, such as a ship, truck or terminal's electrical system or from a portable generator. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, testing connections and inspecting seals, ensures long-term, trustworthy performance. 
 
Modern reefers include sensors and monitoring systems that enable operators to track real-time temperature, humidity and airflow fluctuations. This advanced technology ensures compliance with mandatory storage regulations, such as those for pharmaceuticals or fresh produce. 

How much does a shipping container weigh? 

When empty, a shipping container weighs around 44,850 lbs (2,200 kg) for a 20-footer and 8,380 lbs (3,800 kg) for a 40-footer. However, this can vary dramatically depending on size, type, and purpose. 

This empty base weight, known as the "tare weight", is essential for calculating a container's maximum load, which is a necessary metric for ensuring safe stacking and load management during transit.
 
Thanks to their robust steel walls, shipping containers can handle significant weight and withstand various transport conditions. Generally, both 20-ft and 40-ft containers can hold a maximum gross weight of 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg). Such durability adequately meets the demands of sea, rail or road transport, including loading, unloading and transhipments. 

How many containers can a cargo ship carry? 

The number of containers a cargo ship can carry depends on its size, design and type. Capacity is commonly measured in Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs). A TEU represents a standard 20-ft container, while a Forty-Foot-Equivalent Unit (FEU) is equivalent to two TEUs or a 40-ft container. Some ships can only handle 200 to 800 TEUs, while others, like ultra-large container vessels, known as "mega-ships", can manage between 18,000 to 24,000 TEUs. 
 
Different ships serve distinct purposes. Some focus on high volume with lower weight, while others handle heavier, weight-intensive cargo. 
Exact capacities differ depending on each ship's design elements, such as dimensions, stability requirements and reinforced decks. Other factors, such as weight distribution and intended cargo type, influence how many TEUs each vessel can safely carry. 
 
Efficient container management and strategic stacking ensure that ships remain balanced and maximise space. The ability to transport such massive quantities of goods has transformed global trade in the last decade, lowering costs and increasing accessibility for businesses and consumers worldwide.