Container Types Guide: Which Container Is Right for Your Cargo?
From standard dry containers to open-tops, flat racks, and reefers — choosing the right container type affects both cost and cargo safety. This guide covers all container types handled at Port Sudan with loading requirements and weight limits.
Standard Dry Containers
20-foot (1 TEU)
Dimensions: 5.9m L × 2.35m W × 2.39m H (internal). Payload: ~28,000 kg. Most common unit for Sudan imports. Ideal for dense cargo like machinery, steel, consumer goods.
40-foot (2 TEU)
Dimensions: 12.03m L × 2.35m W × 2.39m H (internal). Payload: ~26,500 kg. Preferred for lighter/bulkier cargo. Better cost-per-CBM than two 20-footers.
40-foot High Cube
Same footprint as 40-foot but 30cm taller (2.7m internal height). Capacity: ~76 CBM. Ideal for low-density cargo — furniture, mattresses, garments.
Specialised Container Types
Reefer (Refrigerated)
Temperature-controlled containers available from -30°C to +30°C. Port Sudan has limited reefer plug points — advance booking essential. Pre-cooling required before stuffing.
Open-Top Container
No fixed roof — ideal for tall machinery, marble slabs, and project cargo that cannot be loaded through standard doors.
Flat Rack
Collapsible sides and no roof — for oversized cargo including vehicles, construction equipment, and industrial components.
Weight and Volume Planning
Sudan port scales check every container. Overweight containers (exceeding SOLAS VGM limits) will be refused loading or incur surcharges. LAM arranges certified VGM weighing as part of our export services.