Hire Shipping Containers: What Are Cargo Containers?

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(Free-Press-Release.com) December 8, 2009 -- Cargo containers are units for both storing and shipping goods efficiently. Because they are used to move goods over long distances, often overseas, they have to be properly constructed and suitable for the job.

The use of cargo containers is proved to have vastly increased the speed an efficiency in the handling and movement of goods. A survey of ports in the United States of America in 1998 showed that cargo in containers could be moved 20 times faster than previous methods where goods were not handled in bulk. Crucially, the use of these units allows goods and produce to be move much faster from the ports to their inland destination

The units come in different sizes, for instance, between 20 and 40 foot. They can be bought or hired in various conditions, such as painted or unpainted as an option, and can include light doors for easy opening.

Depending on how you intend to move your cargo, the units are built to varying specifications, depending on whether they are to be carried in ships or on aircraft. For shipping the maximum gross mass for a 20 foot dry cargo container is 30,480, kg, and for 40 foot 34,000 kg. For cargo containers being transported by air, the weight that can be carried is governed by regulations set by the International Air Transport Association – IATA- and depends on the classification and dimensions of the unit itself. It is also important to consider that many airlines who deliver cargo have their own specially designed units and specialist lifting equipment to handle it.

Cargo units can also be specifically adapted to carry specialised cargoes. For instance they can be refrigerated to carry perishables. Refrigerated units are constructed out of aluminium, glass reinforced plastic, or steel. When buying or renting a refrigerated container,it is important to satisfy yourself that they meet world hygiene standards. Other types of units are open top, flat back and vented.

Further specialisation in the construction of cargo containers can include a lock box for enhanced security, a steel floor, steel grating, an extra wide side door for easier loading and access, and shelf brackets.

The type of unit you choose to hire or buy will be determined by the type of goods you are intending to transport, the distance, and the value of the products to be transported. Also prior to transportation, the units can be used for storage on site.

In summary these units are a highly efficient, safe and economical way to move goods in bulk and also provide excellent storage space.

Great Lakes shipping container services offers a range of standard and specialist ISO equipment to provide innovative and creative purchase and lease international cargo solutions.

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