Case Study

To have safe and optimum transport of shipping containers by sea, railway, road, or air, there is a need to have an even load distribution inside the shipping container. Equal weight distribution reduces the chances of the container tipping over during transportation, consequently damaging the cargo. Unbalanced shipping containers also pose a logistical nightmare during handling, especially at the point of loading and off-loading, slowing down the shipping process, especially during peak season.

To have safe and optimum transport of shipping containers by sea, railway, road, or air, there is a need to have an even load distribution inside the shipping container. Equal weight distribution reduces the chances of the container tipping over during transportation, consequently damaging the cargo. Unbalanced shipping containers also pose a logistical nightmare during handling, especially at the point of loading and off-loading, slowing down the shipping process, especially during peak season.

Since Malcolm McLean invented and patented the shipping container in 1956, they have revolutionized the logistics industry. Today, over 90 percent of all goods sold worldwide have been transported using one decedent or another of Malcolm's original design. Here, we will examine the most popular types of shipping containers in use today and explain what distinguishes them.