The Containerization History: From Wooden Crates to Smart Containers

Depending on the type of commodity, the size of shipment, or the size of the cargo, different types of dry shipping containers may be used in order to preserve the integrity of your cargo and maximise space efficiency. Certain dry cargo freight containers, such as flat rack containers (used for project cargo), can also help facilitate specialised handling for cargo that doesn’t fit the dimensions of standard containers.

Project cargo logistics often involves multiple stakeholders, including shippers, carriers, customs authorities, port operators, and project owners, and numerous timelines that need to be adhered to meet the overall project timeline. Delays at one stage of shipping can result in problems further down the line, impacting your overall supply chain and successful delivery.

The technology used on reefer containers, consisting of a microprocessor inside and an external unit enables perishable goods, or cargo which must be kept at a certain temperature, to be shipped worldwide. Without them, everything from the milk you put in your coffee, to the medications and pharmaceutical products you rely on, wouldn’t be available when needed.

Once inserted into the container, the liquid to be transported is pumped into the flexitank using a dedicated pump and hose system to prevent contamination. After being filled, the tank is sealed and secured by a sturdy frame inside the container to prevent it from moving during transport. Upon arrival, the cargo can be unloaded and the container thoroughly inspected before being used again.

Smart containers are equipped with internet-enabled devices that collect and transmit data about the container’s location, temperature, humidity, and other conditions. This data is accessible to stakeholders in your supply chain via system integration, allowing more efficient tracking and management of cargo.

. Shipping seems to be an industry which is often misunderstood by many. We can list various brands of products we use, but how many of us can name top shipping companies in this world, who help those companies to produce and make them available in a store nearby? Maybe it is because shipping mostly functions efficiently and remains invisible, many major shipping owners or operators are often unnoticed, irrespective of shipping’s role in our daily life.

Designed to transport cargo from smaller, regional ports to larger container ships, feeder vessels play a vital role in supply chains on a global scale.

Like many, the shipping industry needs to continuously adapt and innovate to overcome different hurdles and reduce the impact these challenges can have on operations, efficiency, and profitability. All of this is alongside the work that shipping companies put in to improve operational efficiency, customer service, and sustainability practices.

Everyone knows the sea is unpredictable, with anything from extreme weather to piracy, to accidents at sea can have an impact on cargo transportation. Equally, however, being able to ship internationally is vital for businesses looking to transport goods to a global market place. Therefore, to mitigate financial loss in the face of disaster it’s becoming increasingly important for businesses to safeguard their supply chains by investing in cargo insurance with experts like MSC.

Whether it’s as a pop-up restaurant, art studio, classroom, or commercial space, their durability and portability mean that shipping containers can be utilized creatively in everyday life. The innovative ways containers can be used may surprise you, as will the number of times you can spot second hand containers in unexpected places during the day.