How many tons are transported annually in shipping containers worldwide?
Sea freight plays a vital role in international trade, with shipping containers being a key element of this global logistics system. But how many tonnes of goods are actually transported in these containers around the world each year?
The importance of shipping containers in global trade
Shipping containers are standardized steel boxes that are used to transport and store goods. The most commonly used dimensions are 20 feet (6.06 m) and 40 feet (12.19 m) in length. These containers are designed to be compatible with various types of transportation, including ships, trains, trucks, and cranes. Their rugged steel construction makes them able to withstand the rigors of shipping, handling and storage.
Capacity and dimensions of containers
For example, a 40ft shipping container has external dimensions of 12.19m length, 2.44m width and 2.59m height. The internal dimensions are 12.025 m long, 2.352 m wide and 2.393 m high, with a payload capacity of 67.7 m³. These containers are capable of holding large quantities of goods and different types of cargo, making them a versatile tool for international transport.
Cargo volume
According to available statistics, approximately 80% of all goods in the world are transported by cargo ships, with containers playing a key role. It is estimated that more than 1.7 billion tonnes of goods are transported in shipping containers worldwide each year. This volume covers a wide range of products, from electronics and automotive parts to food and textiles.
The largest container ships
The largest container ships, such as the MSC Irina, have a capacity of up to 24,346 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit). TEU is the standard unit used to measure the capacity of container ships and terminals, with one TEU being equivalent to one 20-foot container. This enormous capacity allows huge quantities of goods to be transported at once, contributing to the efficiency and economy of maritime transport.
Ecological impact
The use of shipping containers also has a positive impact on the environment. The standardisation and efficiency of containerised transport means that the amount of waste and CO2 emissions that would otherwise be generated by transporting goods individually is reduced. In addition, modern container ships are designed to minimise their environmental footprint.
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