Glossary > #Designation 45G2

Shipping Container Designation 45G2

What is a Shipping Container 45G2?

Shipping container 45G2 is a highly specialized type of intermodal freight container that complies with the international standard ISO 6346. The code “45G2″ encodes its length (40 feet), increased height (High Cube, 9’6”), basic construction (General Purpose), and unique feature – a fully openable side wall. This container is designed especially for the needs of carriers and logistics professionals who require easy side access for loading and unloading oversized, long, or palletized goods.

Compared to standard containers, the 45G2 container type provides significantly higher flexibility – it allows, for example, loading with a forklift from the side, which is essential for long pipes, wood, machinery parts, or in cases where it is not possible to use conventional front doors. High Cube construction increases volume by approximately 10–15% compared to standard height, which is ideal for light and bulky goods, such as plastic products, paper, textiles, or electronics.

The 45G2 code is part of the global container identification system according to ISO 6346. Thanks to this, each container is easily recognizable, traceable, and safely handled in all ports and terminals worldwide.

Detailed Analysis of ISO 6346 Code: 45G2

Shipping container 45G2 - open-side
Lodní kontejner 45G2 - boční otevírání

Overview of ISO Coding System

The ISO 6346 standard, managed by the International Bureau for Containers (BIC), is a fundamental pillar of global logistics. The four-digit code (for example, 45G2) determines the physical properties and purpose of the container.

First Digit (4): Container Length

4 means 40 feet (approximately 12.19 meters). The most widespread length in global transport, suitable for transporting bulkier goods.

Second Digit (5): Height and Width

5 denotes increased height High Cube (9’6″ = approximately 2.89 m), while standard height is 8’6″. High Cube containers offer greater volume and are ideal for goods that are bulky but not so heavy.

Third Character (G): Container Type

G means General Purpose (container for general use, so-called dry van). Closed construction, solid roof and walls, intended for dry cargo.
- R – Reefer (refrigerated)
- U – Open Top (open roof)
- P – Platform/Flat Rack
- T – Tank

Fourth Character (2): Specific Features

2 indicates that the container has fully openable one or both side walls as opposed to common types with only front doors.

Physical Specifications and Construction of Container 45G2

Exact dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, age of the container, and its specific design. The following table is based on data from DSV and Singamas, which are leading global manufacturers and carriers:

Specification	Metric Value	Imperial Value
External Dimensions (L×W×H)	12.19 m × 2.44 m × 2.89 m	40′ × 8′ × 9′6″
Internal Dimensions (L×W×H)	12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.70 m	39.5′ × 7.7′ × 8.9′
Cargo Volume	76.4 m³	2,696.9 cu ft
Max. Payload	28,680 kg	63,230 lbs
Weight of Empty Container	4,800–6,850 kg	10,580–15,100 lbs
Max. Gross Weight	30,480–32,500 kg	67,200–71,650 lbs
Height of Door Opening (Front)	2.58 m	8′6″
Width of Door Opening (Front)	2.34 m	7′7″
Stacking Capacity	up to 192,000 kg	approximately 423,000 lbs

Main Structural Elements

Material: High-strength COR-TEN steel, which is resistant to corrosion and weather effects. Some containers may be partially aluminum, which reduces their weight.
Floor: Standard marine plywood (usually 28–30 mm thick), often made from tropical wood or bamboo, treated against pests and mold. In some variants, a steel floor is possible for higher load capacity.
Doors: Fully openable side wall (usually on the right side when viewed from the front), which can be composed of several panels. In addition, of course, conventional front doors with standard safety locks.
Locking Mechanisms: Robust locking and securing for safe transport and stacking. Side doors have special built-in locking that protects against opening during transport.
Gooseneck Tunnel: Front recess in the bottom to allow transport on chassis with so-called gooseneck (gooseneck chassis), which reduces overall transport height.
Stackability: 45G2 containers can be safely stacked up to 8 layers, which is key for efficient space utilization on ships and in depots.

Advantages and Practical Use of Container 45G2

Key Benefits

Speed and Loading Efficiency: Thanks to full side opening, goods can be loaded and unloaded much faster, saving time and handling costs.
Handling of Atypical Cargo: Ability to load long, heavy, or bulky items that would otherwise not fit in standard containers.
Cargo Security: Closed all-metal construction of 45G2 container type protects goods from weather, theft, and damage during transport.
Flexibility: Suitable for transporting a wide range of cargo – from pallets to building materials to machinery, motorcycles, or pipes.

Typical Examples of Use

Construction and Engineering Industry: Long steel profiles, structural parts, piping.
Wood Processing Industry: Structural beams, boards, plywood.
Manufacturing and Distribution: Oversized products that must be loaded from the side due to their length or shape.
Logistics and Storage: Temporary warehouses, mobile workshops, technical facilities on construction sites.

Comparison with Other Container Types

45G2 vs. Standard High Cube (45G0/45G1)

Access: 45G2 container type allows side loading, while 45G0 and 45G1 only allow front loading. 45G1 additionally offers passive ventilation.
Flexibility: 45G2 is more suitable for handling oversized goods that cannot be easily inserted through front doors.
Availability: 45G2 is less common, usually made to order, with a higher purchase price.

45G2 vs. Open Top (42U1)

Loading: Open Top is designed for goods loaded from above (by crane), suitable for tall cargo. 45G2 is ideal for long and wide cargo that can be loaded from the side.
Cargo Protection: 45G2 container provides full protection from weather, Open Top only with a tarp.

45G2 vs. Flat Rack (42P3)

Construction: Flat Rack has no side walls or roof, suitable for extremely oversized cargo (OOG). 45G2 container is still fully enclosed, safer for regular and valuable cargo.
Use: Flat Rack for heavy equipment, vehicles, 45G2 for long but still containerized goods.

45G2 vs. Reefer (45R1)

Purpose: Reefer has an active cooling or heating unit, essential for temperature-controlled cargo (food, pharmaceuticals).
Insulation: Reefer has thicker insulated walls, which reduces interior space. 45G2 container type is intended only for dry cargo.

45G2 vs. Tank Container (22T5)

Construction: Tank Container is a frame with a tank inside, intended for liquids, gases, or bulk materials.
Use: 45G2 for packaged goods, Tank Container for liquids and gases.

Technological, Safety, and Legislative Aspects

Standards and Safety

Standards: 45G2 containers must comply with ISO668, ISO830, ISO6346, ISO1161, ISO1496-1. These standards determine dimensions, strength, durability tests (pressure, stacking), types of locks, corner castings, and other safety criteria.
CSC Plate: Each container is equipped with a CSC (Convention for Safe Containers) plate with information about the manufacturer, manufacturing date, maximum permitted load capacity, and date of last inspection.
Stackability: Containers are tested for the ability to stack up to eight layers (192 t total weight on the bottom container).

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Annual Inspection: Mandatory regular inspections (for example, according to CSC) to verify safety, tightness, and mechanical integrity.
Maintenance: Corrosion repairs, replacement of door seals, floor inspection, locks and hinges. For side doors, special emphasis is placed on flawless operation of locking mechanisms.

Modification and Customization Options

Ventilation: Can be supplemented with passive or active ventilation systems.
Insulation: If needed, internal insulation can be added to increase cargo protection.
Electrification: Installation of lighting, outlets, or air conditioning for special purposes (mobile workshops, warehouses).
Security Features: GPS tracking, alarms, special locks (lockbox).

Market, Availability, and Operating Economics of 45G2

Sales and Rental

Availability: 45G2 container type is less common than standard containers, so it is advisable to verify availability in advance, especially if you need larger quantities.
Price: The purchase price and rental price are higher than standard 45G0/45G1, which reflects higher manufacturing complexity and lower production volume.
Lifespan: With proper maintenance, the container lifespan is 15–20 years; in extreme conditions, it may be shorter.

Economic Benefits

Time Savings: Faster loading and unloading means lower labor costs and shorter vehicle downtime.
Reduced Risk of Cargo Damage: Limiting cargo handling reduces the risk of damage.
Universal Use: Suitable not only for transport but also for temporary warehouses, workshops, mobile operations.

Glossary of Related Terms

Term	Meaning
General Purpose	Universal container for dry cargo.
High Cube	Increased container height (9’6″), ideal for bulky cargo.
CSC Plate	Safety plate according to the Convention for Safe Containers.
Tare Weight	Weight of empty container.
Payload	Maximum payload (cargo weight).
Gross Weight	Maximum total weight (Tare + Payload).
Corner Castings	Corner fittings for handling and stacking.
Gooseneck Tunnel	Recess in the floor for transport on special chassis with gooseneck.
Open Side Container	Container with fully openable side wall (45G2, 42G2, etc.).
Out of Gauge (OOG)	Oversized cargo that exceeds standard container dimensions.
Reefer	Refrigerated container with active temperature control.
Flat Rack	Open container without side walls and roof, intended for extremely oversized goods.
Tank Container	Container with a tank for liquids and gases.
Passive Vents	Passive ventilation openings to ensure air circulation inside the container.
Lockbox	Special cover on door lock against theft.
Depot	Container warehouse or service location.

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