Container transport refers to the transportation of goods in standardized containers across various modes of transport. The goal is to transport goods safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively over national and international distances.
Container transport is the loading and transport of goods in standardized containers, called containers. These containers come in various sizes, usually 20 or 40 feet long. They are stackable, weatherproof, and suitable for different modes of transport. These include trucks, freight trains, cargo ships, and occasionally aircraft. Intermodality—i.e., switching between modes of transport—is a key feature.
Transport usually begins at a port or a logistics center. There, the container is moved by crane, reach stacker, or terminal tractor. Loading takes place directly at the sender's premises or at central transshipment points. The shipment then continues by ship, rail, or truck—depending on the destination and distance. The recipient receives the goods in the same container, saving time and reloading costs.
A major advantage of container transport is security. Containers protect sensitive goods from the elements and theft. They also enable faster customs clearance because they are sealed and provided with accompanying documents. Special container types, such as refrigerated containers or tank containers, are available for sensitive goods.
Container transport also has ecological advantages. By combining multiple modes of transport (multimodality), CO₂ emissions can be reduced. Shipping, for example, is considered particularly efficient relative to the volume transported. Modern logistics chains therefore specifically utilize seaports and rail terminals to reduce congestion on the roads.
In practice, container transport is a precisely planned process. Dispatchers and freight forwarders coordinate departure times, routes, and stopovers. IT systems and GPS tracking ensure transparency along the supply chain. Customers benefit from predictable delivery times and high reliability.
