Why do ships and ports prefer containers?

1. Standardization and versatility
The standardization of Boats and docks use containers is the key to their widespread use around the world. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed unified standards for container sizes, interfaces, etc., so that containers produced by different manufacturers can be compatible with each other. This standardization not only facilitates the transfer of containers between different ships, railway vehicles and trucks, but also greatly reduces the customization cost of port equipment. The versatility of containers allows goods to be seamlessly connected around the world, speeding up the speed of global trade. For example, an electronic product produced in China can be loaded into a standard container and shipped to all parts of the world by sea, rail and other means, and finally reach the hands of consumers.

2. High loading and unloading efficiency
The standardized design of containers allows loading and unloading operations to be highly mechanized. Special equipment such as quay cranes, gantry cranes, and forklifts can quickly and accurately complete the loading and unloading of containers. In addition, the stackability of containers is also excellent, and they can be stacked on ships in multiple layers to maximize the use of the ship's space. This efficient loading and unloading operation not only shortens the time the ship stays in the port, but also reduces the port's operating costs.

3. High safety
The safety of containers is reflected in many aspects. The sturdy steel structure can effectively protect the goods and prevent them from being squeezed, collided and damaged during transportation. Good sealing can prevent the goods from being affected by external environments such as moisture and pollution. In addition, the container is equipped with various safety devices, such as corner fittings and twist locks, to ensure that the container remains stable during transportation.

4. Convenient multimodal transport
Multimodal transport is the development trend of modern logistics, and containers are the key to achieving multimodal transport. Containers can be easily transferred between sea, rail, road and inland waterway transport without repackaging the goods. Container transportation not only shortens the time of cargo transportation, but also reduces transportation costs. For example, a batch of goods can be shipped from a Chinese factory to a European port by sea, then transported to an inland city by rail, and finally transported to the final destination by truck.

5. Reduce cargo loss
Containers can effectively reduce cargo loss. Standardized containers can provide a relatively closed and stable transportation environment, reducing the damage and loss of goods during transportation. In addition, the container's tracking system can monitor the transportation status of the goods in real time, and once an abnormal situation occurs, timely measures can be taken to reduce losses.

6. Convenient information management
Each container has a unique identification number, through which the container can be tracked throughout the process. The information management system can record the loading and unloading time, location, cargo information, etc. of the container, providing all-round protection for the cargo. In addition, information management can also improve the transparency of logistics and facilitate customers to query cargo information.