Ocean freight · Equipment guide

Every cargo has a better fit.

A practical reference to the containers most commonly used in international ocean freight—and the questions to resolve before booking.

Quick selection

Six formats. Different possibilities.

The cargo's dimensions, weight, temperature requirements and loading method determine which equipment should be requested.

01

DRY / GENERAL PURPOSE

Enclosed equipment for cartons, pallets, bags, drums and most non-temperature-controlled cargo.

20' · 40' · 40' HC
02

HIGH CUBE

One foot taller than standard equipment, providing additional internal height and cubic capacity.

High-volume cargo
03

REEFER

Temperature-controlled equipment for food, pharmaceuticals and other sensitive products.

Set point required
04

OPEN TOP

Removable roof covering allows loading from above for tall or difficult-to-handle cargo.

Over-height cargo
05

FLAT RACK

End walls without fixed side walls or roof accommodate oversized machinery and project cargo.

Out-of-gauge cargo
06

TANK

Specialized cylindrical tank within an ISO frame for compatible bulk liquids, gases and chemicals.

Product compatibility review

Dry container reference

Compare the most common sizes.

Metric dimensions below are representative examples. Actual equipment can vary by manufacturer, production series and carrier fleet.

Specification20' Dry40' Dry40' High Cube
External dimensions
L × W × H
6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m12.19 × 2.44 × 2.90 m
Internal dimensions
L × W × H
5.90 × 2.35 × 2.40 m12.03 × 2.35 × 2.40 m12.03 × 2.35 × 2.70 m
Door opening
W × H
2.34 × 2.29 m2.34 × 2.29 m2.34 × 2.60 m
Approx. capacity33.2 m³67.7 m³76.3 m³
Example max. payload28,130 kg28,750 kg28,600 kg

Reference values are not a loading guarantee. Always confirm the exact container specification, CSC plate, road weight limits, cargo distribution and carrier acceptance before stuffing.

Special equipment

When a standard box is not enough.

REEFER

Usable space is reduced by insulation and refrigeration machinery. Confirm set point, ventilation, humidity, pre-cooling rules and commodity requirements.

OPEN TOP

Provide the complete cargo envelope, lifting points and any over-height measurement. Tarpaulin and route restrictions must be reviewed.

FLAT RACK

Width, height and length overhangs affect slot planning and pricing. Lashing, blocking, weight concentration and lifting plans are essential.

Before requesting equipment

Send the cargo facts—not just the container size.

BRL uses the cargo profile to validate equipment availability and identify special handling before a booking is confirmed.

Number and type of packages
Dimensions of each package
Gross weight and weight distribution
Stackability and loading method
Temperature or ventilation needs
Hazardous or regulated classification

Not sure which container fits your cargo?

ASK BRL FOR THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT