DV Shipping Container – Standard Box
Shipping Container DV (Dry Van, sometimes also referred to as DC – Dry Cargo or simply “standard box”) is the most widespread type of container in the world. It is a robust steel box that complies with international standards (ISO) and enables safe, fast, and efficient transport and storage of goods without the need for transshipment. Its construction, dimensions, markings, and security standards are strictly defined, which allows seamless operation across continents, means of transport, and between different operators.
This guide explains in detail everything worth knowing about the DV container – from technical details and dimensions, through types and standards to usage options and proper reading of markings. The article also includes tables, tips, and comparisons with other types of containers.
Basic Definition and Purpose of DV Container
Intermodal Transport Unit: The DV container is designed for so-called intermodal transport, i.e., a combination of different types of transport (ship, train, truck) without the need to transship the goods themselves.
Main Purpose: Transport and storage of so-called “dry cargo” – electronics, textiles, machinery, chemicals, packaged food, raw materials, furniture, etc. The container protects the contents from weather, pests, and unauthorized access.
Role of Standardization (ISO): International standards (in particular ISO 668, ISO 1496, ISO 1161) ensure that every standard container in the world is compatible with common handling equipment, transport infrastructure, and securing elements (cranes, spreaders, twist locks, etc.).
Key Features and Advantages of DV Container
- Robustness: Made from high-strength Corten steel, designed for long-term resistance to sea salt, UV radiation, and mechanical damage.
- Versatility: Suitable for most types of goods, can be easily modified (warehouse, workshop, office, residential module, etc.).
- Stackability: Safely stackable up to 8–9 layers, which maximizes space utilization in ports and on ships.
- Security: Strong locking mechanisms, massive door system, possibility of using security locks and seals.
- Intermodality: Precise ISO dimensions and corner fittings enable easy transshipment and fixation on any means of transport.
Anatomy of Standard Container – Detailed Construction
Frame Construction
| Element | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Corner fittings | Cast steel (ISO 1161) | Handling, stacking, twist lock attachment |
| Corner posts | High-strength steel | Transfer of vertical forces, stacking |
| Longitudinals | Corten steel | Rigidity assurance, load capacity, post connection |
| Floor crossmembers | Corten steel | Even load distribution of floor, increased service life |
Interesting Fact: All corner fittings are milled with millimeter precision – this is key to international compatibility!
Cladding and Roof
- Material: Corrugated Corten steel with thickness of 1.6–2.0 mm.
- Properties: Self-healing rust layer protects against deeper corrosion, corrugation significantly increases strength and resistance to deflection and impact.
Floor
| Material | Thickness | Load Capacity | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water-resistant plywood | 28 mm | 2000–3000 kg/m² | Durability, easy replacement, impregnation |
| Alternative: Bamboo | 28 mm | Comparable | Ecological variant, high strength |
Attached directly to steel crossmembers, impregnated against pests.
Doors, Sealing, Locking
- Double doors: Openable up to 270°, robust locking bars along the entire height.
- Sealing: Rubber (EPDM, NBR), ensures water-tightness and dust-tightness (WWT – Wind & Water Tight).
- Locking: 2–4 bars, handles with possibility of locking with a padlock in a protective box against cutting.
Overview of Dimensions and Variants – Tables and Comparison
Standard Dimensions (ISO 668)
| Type | External D×W×H (mm) | Internal D×W×H (mm) | Door Opening W×H (mm) | Volume (m³) | Tare (kg) | Max. Load Capacity (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ DV | 6058×2438×2591 | 5898×2352×2393 | 2340×2280 | 33.2 | 2250 | 28230 |
| 40′ DV | 12192×2438×2591 | 12032×2352×2393 | 2340×2280 | 67.7 | 3780 | 27600 |
| 20′ High Cube | 6058×2438×2896 | 5898×2352×2695 | 2340×2585 | 37.4 | 2400 | 28100 |
| 40′ High Cube | 12192×2438×2896 | 12032×2352×2695 | 2340×2585 | 76.4 | 4000 | 27500 |
Notes:
- Dimensions may vary by millimeters depending on the manufacturer.
- In “High Cube” variants, the internal and external height is approximately 300 mm greater, which is crucial for construction, insulation, and larger cargo volume.
- There are also special widths for EU pallets (Pallet Wide), lengths of 45′, shortened containers (10′, 8′), Super High Cube, and others.
Variants and Specialized Container Types (Comparison)
| Type | Description/Purpose | Difference from DV |
|---|---|---|
| DV | Dry cargo, universal use | – |
| HC | Higher by 30 cm, suitable for conversions, tall cargo | More space, higher price |
| Reefer (RF) | Refrigerated, insulated, with cooling unit | Smaller internal volume, higher TARE |
| Open Top | Removable roof (tarpaulin), for bulk and tall cargo | Possibility of crane loading from above |
| Flat Rack | Without side/often roof walls, only ends, for heavy machinery | For oversized cargo |
| Double Door | Doors on both ends, easy passage, “tunnel” | Fast loading/unloading |
| Open Side | Entire side wall openable | Access to wide cargo |
| Pallet Wide | Larger width, accommodates more EU pallets | Wider by approximately 6 cm |
| Tank | For liquids, cylindrical tank in steel frame | Narrowly specialized use |
| Dry Bulk | For bulk materials, hoppers/chutes | Adapted for granulated cargo |
Markings and Identification – How to “Read” a Container
Every container has a set of mandatory data on its doors according to ISO 6346 and other regulations:
| Data | Description |
|---|---|
| Container Number | 4 letters (owner) + U (type) + 6 digits (serial) + check digit |
| ISO Code | 4 characters – length, height/width, type (e.g., 22G1 = 20′ DV general purpose) |
| Operating Data | MAX GROSS (maximum weight), TARE (empty weight), NET (useful weight), CUB CAP |
| CSC Plate | Safety certificate according to Convention for Safe Containers (validity, stacking, manufacturer) |
| Other Markings | Hazard labels, inspection plates, owner, logo, country of origin, etc. |
Tip: The check digit allows verification that the number is not forged (mathematical algorithm). The CSC plate is necessary for international transport!
Safety and Quality Categories of Containers
| Category | Condition and Use | Description |
|---|---|---|
| New/One Way | New, used once | Practically without damage, suitable for construction and representative purposes |
| IICL | Perfect, up to 5 years, minor defects | Meets strict standards, accepted in maritime transport |
| CW (Cargo Worthy) | Older, fully functional | Suitable for transport and storage, minor cosmetic defects |
| WWT (Wind & Water Tight) | Wind and water resistant | Not intended for international transport, suitable as warehouse |
| ASIS | Decommissioned from transport | For storage, modifications, not for transport |
Expertise from Construction – Unique Technical Details
- Corner fittings: 8 pieces, precise dimensions 178×162×118 mm, made from cast steel ASTM A27 Grade 70-36, ISO 1161 certification.
- Walls and roof: Corrugated Corten steel, service life 20+ years, minimal maintenance.
- Floor: 28mm plywood, impregnated and insecticide treated, load capacity up to 3000 kg/m², alternatively bamboo.
- Doors: Opening 270°, steel reinforcements, locking bars, EPDM/NBR sealing.
- Stackability: All weight is transferred through corner fittings and posts, the roof is not load-bearing!
Practical Use of DV Containers
Primary Purpose
- Maritime and Rail Transport: Dry cargo, global transport, storage in ports, intermodal transport.
- Storage: Mobile warehouses on construction sites, in companies, for households, seasonal goods, tools, archives, etc.
Secondary Use and Modifications
- Cargotecture: Residential houses, cottages, offices, schools, cafes, workshops, pop-up shops, healthcare facilities.
- Special Applications: Technology containers (servers, energy), mobile laboratories, sanitary modules.
- Advantages: Fast construction, modularity, possibility of relocation, sustainability (recycling of decommissioned containers), security.
Inspiration: In the Czech Republic, you commonly find container schools, shops, cafes, garages, warehouse areas, and unique family homes!
Standards, Certificates, and Maintenance
- ISO 668: Dimensions, classification, nominal values.
- ISO 1496: Technical requirements, test methods.
- ISO 1161: Corner fittings – dimensions, strength, inspection.
- CSC (Convention for Safe Containers): Mandatory safety plate, regular inspections and validity extension.
- Maintenance: Regular inspection of sealing, coatings, floor and fittings, replacement of damaged parts according to IICL standards.
Most Common Mistakes and Practical Tips for Selection and Use
- Unverified Origin: Purchase only from verified sellers, there is a high risk of fraudulent advertisements!
- Missing CSC Plate: Without a valid CSC plate, the container cannot be used in international transport.
- Condition of Doors and Sealing: Check tightness, function of locking bars, and floor condition.
- Stacking: Do not overload the roof, always stack only through corner fittings!
- Modifications: For construction purposes, always consult a structural engineer, especially when connecting multiple containers.
Conclusion
Shipping Container DV is a true pillar of modern logistics and construction. Its construction, standardization, and versatility enabled the creation of a global transport network that connects continents. At the same time, it finds increasingly more use in architecture, industry, and everyday life. With proper selection and maintenance, the DV container is an investment for decades and brings security, flexibility, and ecological value.
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