This post was last updated on May 22nd, 2025
In today’s fast-paced global trade environment, shipping containers have become the backbone of efficient and reliable logistics. These standardized, secure, and scalable units allow goods to move seamlessly across oceans, highways, and rail lines. As we dive into 2025, understanding how to maximize the utility of shipping containers is more than just useful – it’s essential for staying competitive in domestic and international markets.
Shipping containers originated from the need to simplify cargo handling and reduce theft and loss during transportation. Over the decades, they have revolutionized how products are shipped, stored, and tracked. From food and clothing to electronics and raw materials, virtually every industry relies on shipping containers to deliver goods safely and cost-effectively. This guide explores how your business can master shipping containers in 2025 and beyond.
To begin, selecting the right shipping container type is crucial. Options include standard dry containers, refrigerated (reefer) containers, open-top containers, and tank containers – each suited for specific cargo types. Choosing the appropriate container reduces risk, enhances cargo protection, and lowers handling costs. In 2025, container options continue to diversify with eco-friendly innovations and smart technologies like IoT tracking sensors, temperature regulation systems, and real-time GPS visibility.
Another critical aspect is understanding container sizes and dimensions. The most commonly used are 20-foot and 40-foot containers, standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). These sizes offer flexible options for partial and full container loads, accommodating both small shipments and large-scale freight. Accurate size planning ensures that space is utilized efficiently and reduces the cost per unit shipped.
Furthermore, businesses must know the regulations governing shipping containers, both domestically and internationally. Whether you’re shipping across Canada or exporting to Asia, compliance with customs, fumigation standards, and weight restrictions is vital. In 2025, many governments are adopting stricter sustainability and traceability standards, which means your containers must meet higher expectations.
Storage and stacking are also part of successful container management. Proper stacking reduces risk during handling, especially at ports or transfer terminals. Investing in container loading and unloading training for your logistics team can further decrease damage risks and improve throughput. Additionally, digital container management systems now allow companies to monitor container usage, availability, and maintenance schedules in real-time.
Let’s not forget the financial side. Understanding how shipping containers impact your logistics costs helps you negotiate better with freight forwarders and carriers. Leasing versus buying is an ongoing consideration—while leasing offers flexibility, owning containers can yield long-term cost advantages depending on your shipping frequency and geographic coverage.
In the upcoming sections, we’ll break down best practices in container handling, how to avoid common shipping mistakes, and what technologies are transforming the container logistics landscape in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned logistics manager or new to supply chain operations, this guide will equip you with actionable insights to ship like a pro using shipping containers.
Shipping Containers: Types, Features, Applications, Sizes, and Uses
When it comes to container shipping, there are a lot of options available. But which container is the right one for your needs? With our quick guide, you’ll be able to select the best container for your particular shipment based on factors like type, size, application, and more.
Standard Shipping Rail Container Sizes VS High Cube Containers
The Standardization of shipping containers
As rail traffic has evolved, it became a major challenge to standardize exterior dimensions, size, and capacity specifications to allow seamless transportation and movement of intermodal cargo.
Railroads have then developed standardized shipping containers that align with the common and ISO standards, in order to safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively ship rail cargo across Canada and generally speaking, across the world.
Two major types of shipping containers:
- The ISO standard containers, are the ones set by the International Organization for Standardization thanks to the ISO 688 standard. They are the most common ones, used all over the world.
- The “High Cube Containers”, are based on a common USA/Canadian standard (used for instance by CN and CP rail companies), with slightly taller containers.
Dimensions differences between Standard and High Cube Shipping Containers
The major difference between the two rail shipping containers is the height.
While ISO containers are 8’6″ or 2.59 meters tall, high cube containers have a height of 9’6″ or approximately 2.90 meters high.
This represents an increase of one foot or 0.305 meters over the standard rail container height. It allows businesses to fit more merchandise in the container’s interior while keeping the same length.
The Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEU) shipping containers and their specifications
Good to know: The rail container dimensions are also used to determine the rail container capacity. These are expressed in “Twenty-foot Equivalent Units” or TEUs.
Standard shipping containers are 20′ long (around 6.06 meters), 8’6″ high (around 2.59 meters), and 8′ wide (around 2.44 meters), which calculates to 38.29 square meters of rail cargo-carrying space. The 40′ long (12.19 meters) is another standard cargo container size. The 40′ long (12.19 meters) is another standard common size.
Types of shipping containers
Standard dry shipping containers are the most common type of containers used. They come in various sizes, from 20 feet (6 meters) to 40 feet (12 meters) long.
Reefer shipping containers: These containers have built-in refrigeration units and are used for perishable shipments. They come in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes.
Flat rack shipping containers are containers with no sides or roof and are used for oversized or oddly-shaped shipments. They come in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes.
Open top shipping containers: These containers have no hard top, making them easy to load and unload from the top. They come in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes.
Sizes of containers
20-foot container: The most popular container size, a 20-footer is perfect for smaller shipments. It’s also the most manageable size since it’s the standard most shipping lines use.
40-foot container: A 40-foot container is ideal for larger shipments or consolidating multiple smaller shipments into one container.
53′ high cube Dry van container: This container is the largest on the market and can hold up to 25% more volume. What does this mean to you? 26 – 30 skids depending upon the actual dimensions of each skid.
At RailGateway, we specialize in 40-foot and 53-high cube dry containers. For more details, visit our container specifications page.
Features of containers
Doors: All containers have doors on one end, which can be opened for loading and unloading. Some container types (like reefers and open tops) may have doors on both ends.
Locking bars: Most containers have locking bars that can be used to secure the doors shut. This is important for preventing theft and keeping your shipment safe during transit.
Security features: Some shipping lines offer extra security features like GPS tracking and tamper-proof seals. These can be worth the extra cost if you’re shipping high-value items or sensitive materials.
Applications
Dry cargo: Standard dry cargo containers can be used for a wide variety of shipments, from clothes and electronics to furniture and machinery.
Refrigerated cargo: Reefer containers are perfect for perishable items like food, flowers, and pharmaceuticals.
Oversized cargo: Flat rack containers can accommodate oversized or oddly-shaped shipments that wouldn’t fit in a standard container.
Top-loading cargo: Open-top containers are convenient for top-loading shipments like lumber, steel coils, or vehicles.
What You Need to Know Before Packing a Shipping Container
Packing a container is not as simple as loading up your items and sending them on their way. There are a few things you need to know to properly pack and ship your container, from the right packing materials to use to the best way to stack your items.
Packing materials
Bubble wrap: Bubble wrap is perfect for protecting fragile items during shipping. It’s important to use a good quality bubble wrap that won’t pop easily.
Foam peanuts: Foam peanuts can be used in place of bubble wrap or as additional padding for delicate items. They’re also great for filling empty spaces in the container so that your items don’t break during transit.
Cardboard boxes: Cardboard boxes are great for organizing and keeping your items safe during shipping. It’s important to use sturdy boxes that won’t collapse under the weight of your shipment.
Packing tape: Packing tape is essential for sealing up your boxes and securing them in the container. Make sure to use good-quality tape that won’t come undone easily.
Labeling
It’s important to label all of your boxes so that the receiving party knows what’s inside. This will make unpacking easier and help to prevent any damages or losses. Be sure to include a detailed description of the contents, as well as your contact information in case there are any problems with the shipment.
How to Properly Pack and Ship ISO Containers
Now that you’ve selected the right container for your shipment, it’s time to start packing. Here are a few things you should keep in mind in order to ensure that everything arrives safely and in one piece.
Choose the right packing materials. For fragile items, use padding like bubble wrap or foam peanuts. For heavy items, use wooden pallets to distribute the weight evenly.
The Best Way to Stack Items in a Cargo Container
Stack items carefully. Make sure that heavier items are on the bottom and lighter items are on top. Use dunnage (wooden boards or metal bars) to secure stacked items and prevent shifting during transit.
How to Seal Intermodal Containers
Once your container is packed, seal the doors shut with locking bars or tamper-proof seals. Label the container with your contact information and the destination address.
Shipping Overseas
If you’re shipping a container overseas, there are a few additional things you need to do in order to ensure that everything goes smoothly.
First, you’ll need to obtain a bill of lading from the shipping company. This document will list the contents of your shipment and act as a contract between you and the shipper.
You’ll also need to fill out a customs declaration form. This form will list the value of your shipment and any applicable taxes or duties.
Finally, make sure to check with the destination country’s customs department to see if there are any special requirements for importing goods.
Packing and shipping a container doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little preparation and the right materials, you can safely ship your items to their destination. Just remember to choose the right container, pack carefully, and label everything clearly. By following these simple tips, you can be sure that your container will arrive safe and sound.
Looking to save on your Canadian intermodal transportation costs? At RailGateway, we have over 40 years of experience and can help you save time and money. Contact us today to request your rail quote.
Conclusion
As we look ahead in 2025, the ability to master shipping containers isn’t just a tactical win – it’s a strategic advantage. Businesses that integrate container-based shipping into their logistics plan will benefit from improved security, reduced operational costs, and greater flexibility across multiple transportation modes.
The primary reason shipping containers remain so powerful in logistics is their universality. Regardless of industry or cargo, containers provide a modular, lockable, and scalable option for global commerce. And with the rise of digitalization, smart shipping containers now come equipped with real-time tracking, electronic seals, and environmental sensors that alert shippers to temperature changes, tampering, or delays.
Operational excellence in shipping containers starts with robust training and SOPs. Empower your team to load and secure cargo correctly, especially when working with sensitive or high-value goods. Regular inspections of container conditions also help prevent costly disputes, insurance claims, or regulatory violations. Having checklists and compliance procedures ready means fewer surprises and greater shipping reliability.
Moreover, you can now automate much of your container logistics. Platforms like container management systems (CMS) and transport management systems (TMS) streamline scheduling, inventory control, and document generation. These technologies are particularly helpful for businesses scaling their shipping operations or managing containers across multiple ports and regions.
Sustainability is another key area where shipping containers shine. In 2025, more companies are retrofitting older containers or choosing lightweight, recyclable materials to reduce environmental impact. This helps meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) targets while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Some businesses are even converting shipping containers into modular retail spaces or temporary storage, proving their versatility beyond freight.
If your company hasn’t yet explored the full potential of shipping containers, now is the time to do so. By aligning your shipping strategies with container optimization techniques – like right-sizing, automation, and digital monitoring – you can ensure smoother, more profitable operations.
In conclusion, shipping smarter in 2025 starts with smarter shipping containers. Whether you’re moving goods within Canada or managing transcontinental logistics, the right container strategy unlocks efficiency, security, and growth. Take charge of your shipping processes now and transform your business into a logistics powerhouse with expert use of shipping containers.
For more information about container shipping, check out our posts:
10 Types of Intermodal Cargo You Can Ship in Containers
Container Bites: Interesting Intermodal Container Stats and Tid Bits
The Intermodal Container: Everything You Need to Know About Containerisation!
FAQ
- What are shipping containers used for?
Shipping containers are large, standardized metal boxes used to transport goods across various transportation modes – road, rail, and sea. Their importance in 2025 cannot be overstated. These containers enable intermodal logistics, allowing cargo to be transferred seamlessly without unloading the contents. They are designed to protect shipments from weather, theft, and damage while maintaining cost-efficiency. With global shipping volumes rising and sustainability taking center stage, shipping containers offer an eco-friendly alternative by reducing wasteful packaging and streamlining supply chains. Businesses using shipping containers gain from lower transport costs, quicker delivery times, and better tracking through smart container technologies. - How big are standard shipping containers?
Shipping containers typically come in a few standardized sizes: 20-foot and 40-foot are the most common. The 20-foot container, also known as a TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit), is ideal for heavier, compact loads, while the 40-foot container (FEU) provides more space for lighter, bulkier items. There are also variations like high-cube containers (which offer an extra foot in height), refrigerated containers for perishable goods, and open-top containers for oversized cargo. Choosing the right shipping container depends on your cargo’s size, weight, type, and temperature sensitivity. For example, fragile electronics may require a container with advanced insulation or shock-resistant features. - Are shipping containers waterproof?
Shipping containers are essential in intermodal transport, which involves using multiple transportation methods (like trucks, trains, and ships) without handling the cargo itself during mode changes. This system enhances speed, security, and cost-efficiency. Containers are loaded at the origin and remain sealed until they reach their final destination. This eliminates handling errors, reduces damage risks, and simplifies customs clearance. In 2025, intermodal logistics with shipping containers also supports sustainability goals, as rail and sea transport produce lower emissions than road freight. This compatibility across transport modes makes shipping containers a cornerstone of efficient, modern supply chains. - Can I buy or lease shipping containers?
Yes, you can either purchase or lease shipping containers depending on your budget and shipping frequency. - What are the different types of shipping containers?
Common types include dry containers, reefer (refrigerated) containers, tank containers, and open-top containers. - How long do shipping containers last?
With proper maintenance, shipping containers can last 15–25 years or more. - Are shipping containers safe for transporting electronics?
Yes, if packed correctly and protected against moisture and shock, containers are safe for electronics. - Can shipping containers be used for storage?
Absolutely. Many businesses use shipping containers as temporary or permanent storage solutions. - What regulations apply to shipping containers?
Containers must comply with ISO standards, local customs laws, and weight regulations in the regions they operate. - Are there smart shipping containers?
Yes, many containers now come with GPS, environmental sensors, and automated status reporting. - Do I need special training to handle shipping containers?
Yes, proper training helps ensure safe loading, securing, and unloading of cargo in containers. - How can I reduce costs when using shipping containers?
You can reduce costs by optimizing load efficiency, selecting the right container size, and using tech to manage scheduling and routing.
How We Can Help
For businesses looking to optimize their freight shipping with reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions, RailGateway.ca is your trusted partner in intermodal logistics. Whether you’re new to freight trains or want to enhance your existing supply chain, our team of intermodal experts is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Contact RailGateway.ca today for a free quote or to speak directly with one of our experienced intermodal specialists. Let us help you unlock smarter, smoother shipping solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Visit RailGateway.ca or call us to get started on transforming your freight shipping strategy in 2025 and beyond.
