Shipping Container Designation 4EG1
What is Shipping Container 4EG1?
Shipping Container 4EG1 is a modern, standardized unit for intermodal transport whose properties comply with ISO 6346 code: 4EG1. This code defines a 40-foot High Cube Pallet Wide container for general purpose use (General Purpose Dry Container), designed primarily for optimized transport of goods on euro pallets in the European space, while maintaining full global compatibility.
The 4EG1 container combines increased internal width (“Pallet Wide” for efficient pallet loading), increased height (“High Cube” – 9 feet 6 inches) and robust construction for universal deployment. Its construction meets strict requirements of standards ISO 668, ISO 1496-1, ISO 3874, ISO 1161 and others, ensuring its interchangeability, safety and durability within the global supply chain.
Alternative Names and Designations
- 40′ High Cube Pallet Wide Container
- 40′ HC PW
- 40-foot Pallet-Wide High-Cube container
- 40′ HCPW container
- ISO code: 4EG1
Detailed Analysis: Decoding the 4EG1 Code
4EG1 Code Structure According to ISO 6346
| Position | Character | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | 4 | Length 40 feet (12,192 mm) |
| 2. | E | High Cube (9’6″ height) + Pallet Wide (increased width) |
| 3. | G | General Purpose Dry Container |
| 4. | 1 | Passive ventilation |
Standardized coding is key to identification, automation and safety in the logistics process. Correct reading of the code allows each link in the supply chain to precisely determine the type, dimensions and properties of the unit.
Technical Specifications and Key Characteristics
Dimensions
| Parameter | Value (range) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| External length | 12,192 mm (40′ 0″) | ISO standard |
| External width | 2,500 mm (8′ 2 7⁄16″) | Pallet Wide (corners 8′ for handling) |
| External height | 2,896 mm (9′ 6″) | High Cube |
| Internal length | 12,051 – 12,095 mm | Depending on manufacturer |
| Internal width | 2,438 – 2,444 mm | Optimization for euro pallets |
| Internal height | 2,692 – 2,700 mm | |
| Door opening – width | 2,359 – 2,400 mm | |
| Door opening – height | 2,585 – 2,584 mm | |
| Volume | 79.5 – 80 m³ |
Weights and Capacities (according to Singamas, Starcon, Lotus Containers)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Tare (empty weight) | 4,200 – 4,260 kg |
| Max. useful load | 29,370 – 29,740 kg |
| Max. total weight | 34,000 kg |
| Stacking load | 192,000 kg (max) |
Materials and Construction
- Frame and walls: High durability thanks to Corten steel, which ensures long lifespan and corrosion resistance even in extreme conditions. The corrugated wall profile further increases structural strength.
- Floor: Made of laminated marine plywood (28 mm), often combined with bamboo panels. Floors are treated against pests and comply with international phytosanitary regulations (e.g., ISPM 15).
- Doors: Double doors equipped with four locking bars and rubber sealing to ensure water and dust tightness.
The “Pallet Wide” Advantage – Optimization for European Pallets
Problem with Standard Containers
Standard 40′ containers have an internal width of around 2,350 mm, which makes it impossible to efficiently place three euro pallets side by side (3 × 800 mm = 2,400 mm) or two lengthwise (2 × 1,200 mm = 2,400 mm). This results in unused space and reduced transport efficiency.
4EG1 Solution
With an internal width of approximately 2,440 mm, you can easily place:
- Three euro pallets side by side (3 × 800 mm = 2,400 mm)
- Two euro pallets lengthwise (2 × 1,200 mm = 2,400 mm)
Palletization Capacity According to Sources (Starcon, Lotus Containers)
| Container Type | Number of euro pallets (1200×800 mm) |
|---|---|
| 40′ High Cube Standard | 25 |
| 40′ High Cube Pallet Wide (4EG1) | 30 |
| 45′ High Cube Standard | 27 |
| 45′ High Cube Pallet Wide | 33 – 34 |
20% capacity increase (compared to standard 40′ HC) means significant savings in transport costs and better utilization of cargo space, especially for light and bulky commodities.
Comparison with Other Container Types
| Feature | 4EG1 (40′ HC Pallet Wide) | 45G1 (40′ High Cube Standard) | 42G1 (40′ Standard Dry) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISO code | 4EG1 | 45G1 | 42G1 |
| External length | 12,192 mm | 12,192 mm | 12,192 mm |
| External height | 2,896 mm (9’6″) | 2,896 mm (9’6″) | 2,591 mm (8’6″) |
| Internal width | 2,438–2,444 mm | 2,350 mm | 2,350 mm |
| Internal volume | ~79.5–80 m³ | ~76.4 m³ | ~67.7 m³ |
| Euro pallet capacity | 30 | 25 | 25 |
| Max. total weight | 34,000 kg | 34,000 kg | 30,480–34,000 kg |
| Primary advantage | Optimal for euro pallets | Bulky goods | Standardization |
Applications and Practical Use
4EG1 is preferred in situations where maximum utilization of transport space for palletized goods is needed:
- Automotive: Components on pallets, manufacturing parts.
- FMCG: Food, beverages, drugstore goods.
- Chemical industry: Barrels, drums, chemicals on pallets.
- Construction: Tiles, bricks and other heavy materials.
- Storage: After completion of maritime service, ideal as a storage container due to robust construction and large volume.
Logistics Aspects and Handling
- Handling: Corner elements in ISO position allow the use of standard cranes, reach stackers, portal vehicles and road trailers.
- Transport: Seamless stacking on ships, railways and roads; full compatibility with global infrastructure due to external dimensions.
- Tracking: Unique BIC code and serial number ensure transparent tracking of movement in Track & Trace systems.
Note: For use on railways or in road transport, height limits must be verified (bridges, tunnels), as the High Cube variant is approximately 30 cm higher than standard containers!
Safety, Standards and Certifications
- ISO Standards: 668, 1496-1, 1161, 3874 – specify dimensions, strength, handling methods, testing and designation.
- Certifications: Manufacturers (e.g., Singamas) always provide containers with a valid CSC plate (Container Safety Convention) and often with additional certifications for special use.
- Material testing: Corten steel is tested for corrosion resistance, wall strength is verified under pressure up to 192 tons (stacking).
- Floors: Must meet requirements for forklift load capacity and be treated according to ISPM 15 (phytosanitary protection).
Role in the Global Supply Chain
- Efficiency: Higher capacity means fewer shipments and lower carbon footprint.
- Specialization: Responds to European palletization standards, but is usable worldwide.
- Transparency: Clear designation (4EG1) enables precise planning, customs clearance and real-time tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between 4EG1 and 45G1?
4EG1 container is Pallet Wide (increased width for euro pallets), 45G1 container is standard High Cube (normal width). 4EG1 container type can accommodate more euro pallets.
2. Can 4EG1 be used outside Europe?
Yes, due to ISO standardization it is fully compatible with all transport hubs worldwide.
3. Is 4EG1 a refrigerated or open top container?
No, 4EG1 is a dry general purpose container (Dry GP). Refrigerated has code “R”, open top “U”.
4. Where can I find official information about codes?
On the BIC (Bureau International des Containers) website and in ISO 6346 standard.
5. Why is knowledge of the code important?
For planning loading, selecting the correct trailer, weight control and customs declaration.
Related Terms
- ISO 6346 – standard for container designation
- General Purpose Container – fully enclosed dry container
- High Cube (HC) – increased height 9’6″
- Pallet Wide (PW) – increased width for pallets
- Dry Container – without active temperature regulation
- Euro pallet – 1200 × 800 mm
- Container Size Type – combination of dimensions and type
- Track & Trace – container tracking
Table: Quick Comparison of Main Parameters
| Parameter | 4EG1 (Pallet Wide) | 45G1 (Standard HC) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| External length | 12,192 mm | 12,192 mm | |
| External width | 2,500 mm | 2,438 mm | Corners always 8′ for handling |
| External height | 2,896 mm | 2,896 mm | |
| Internal width | 2,440 mm | 2,350 mm | 4EG1 = ideal for euro pallets |
| Internal volume | 79.5 – 80 m³ | 76.4 m³ | |
| Euro pallet capacity | 30 | 25 | |
| Tare | 4,200 – 4,260 kg | 3,800 – 4,200 kg | Depends on manufacturer |
| Max. load | 29,370 – 29,740 kg | 29,000 – 29,600 kg |
Interesting Facts and Notes
- The first Pallet Wide containers were developed specifically to meet European logistics needs, where the euro pallet is the standard unit.
- Some railway and road routes may have restrictions for High Cube containers – always verify clearance!
- Modern 4EG1 containers are often equipped with RFID chips for advanced movement tracking.
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