The humble intermodal container forever changed global trade, creating a seamless system for moving goods across multiple transportation modes. For truck drivers, these standardized units require specific knowledge and skills to transport safely and efficiently. In this guide, we discuss everything you need to know about intermodal containers—from basic types and uses to practical handling tips and regulatory requirements.

Understanding Intermodal Containers

Intermodal containers are standardized, reusable steel boxes designed to transport goods across different modes of transportation without unloading and reloading the cargo. They transformed global trade by solving the “break bulk” problem. Before containers, cargo had to be manually loaded and unloaded at each transfer point, which was time-consuming, labor-intensive, and expensive. 

The beauty of intermodal containers is that they can move seamlessly between ships, trucks, and trains. A container can be loaded at a factory in China, traveled by truck to a port, crossed the ocean by ship, transferred to a train, and finally reached its destination by truck again—all without the contents being handled.

The Importance of Intermodal Containers

Here’s what makes them so important:

• Standardized dimensions: Most commonly 20 or 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet tall (called TEU and FEU – Twenty/Forty-foot Equivalent Units)
• Durable construction: Made of corrugated weathering steel to withstand harsh conditions
• Universal handling points: Corner castings with standardized twist locks for secure attachment
• Space optimization: The stackable nature of containers means more goods can be transported using less energy.
• Port infrastructure development: Specialized container terminals with massive cranes and automated systems have revolutionized port operations worldwide.
• Labor transformation: Loading/unloading a conventional cargo ship could take weeks with hundreds of longshoremen. A container vessel of much larger capacity can be processed in hours with minimal crew.
• Weather-resistant: Designed to protect cargo from elements during transport

What are the two types of intermodal containers?

While this is a common question, there are more than two types of intermodal containers. Although the most common classification is based on size (20-foot and 40-foot), containers are more comprehensively categorized by their design and purpose. 

Type 1

Dry containers (general-purpose containers) are standard box-type containers that make up the majority of the world’s container fleet. They’re weatherproof, secure, and used for most non-specialized cargo.

Type 2

Specialized containers include several subtypes designed for specific cargo needs:

• Refrigerated containers (reefers): Temperature-controlled for perishable goods
• Open-top containers: With removable tops for oversized cargo loading
• Flat rack containers: With collapsible sides for wide loads
• Tank containers: For liquid bulk cargo
• Ventilated containers: For cargo requiring air circulation
• Insulated containers: For temperature-sensitive but not refrigerated goods

What are intermodal containers typically used for?

Intermodal containers are incredibly versatile and are used to transport a vast range of goods globally. Here are the most typical uses:

Consumer Goods

• Furniture and home furnishings
• Electronics and appliances
• Clothing and textiles
• Toys and sporting equipment
• Personal care products

Industrial Materials

• Raw materials (metals, plastics, chemicals)
• Parts and components for manufacturing
• Industrial equipment and machinery
• Construction materials
• Automotive parts

Food and Beverages

• Non-perishable foods (canned goods, packaged products)
• Frozen foods (in refrigerated containers)
• Beverages (bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol)
• Coffee, tea, and dry ingredients
• Grains and animal feed

Specialized Cargo

• Hazardous materials (with proper certification)
• Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies
• Military equipment and supplies
• Relief supplies for humanitarian missions
• Bulk commodities (in specially designed containers)

Beyond transportation, containers have found new applications:

• Temporary storage at construction sites
• Conversion into modular buildings (homes, offices, shops)
• Emergency shelters after disasters
• Pop-up retail spaces and restaurants
• Art installations and event space

What Truck Drivers Need to Know About Intermodal Containers

Weight and Distribution

• Weight verification: Always verify the container weight before transport. Overloaded containers are dangerous and illegal.
• Load distribution: Uneven loading inside containers can cause handling problems, especially on turns.
• Different weights by type: 40-foot containers may weigh 8,000+ lbs empty, with refrigerated units weighing significantly more.

Handling Characteristics

• High center of gravity: Loaded containers have a higher risk of rollover than typical trailers.
• Wind sensitivity: Empty containers act like sails in high winds and require extra caution.
• Chassis compatibility: Make sure your chassis is compatible with the container size.

Legal Requirements

• Permits: Some container movements may require special permits depending on weight and dimensions.
• Securing requirements: Containers must be properly secured to the chassis with functional twist locks at all four corners.
• Seal verification: Drivers often need to verify that the seal numbers match the documentation.

Operational Procedures

• Pre-trip inspection: Check for container damage, proper sealing, and secure mounting before departure.
• Documentation: Maintain proper paperwork, including container numbers, seal numbers, and customs documentation.
• Terminal protocols: Understand specific procedures at intermodal yards for drop-off and pickup.

Safety Considerations

• CSC plate: Verify the container has a valid CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate showing inspection dates.
• Hazmat awareness: Be aware if the container contains hazardous materials, which require special handling and placarding.
• Refrigeration units: For reefer containers, know how to check if the cooling unit is functioning properly.

Practical Tips

• Turning radius: Containers on chassis often require wider turns than standard trailers.
• Bridge clearance: Standard containers on chassis can reach 13’6″ in height, with high-cube containers exceeding 14′.
• Positioning for loading/unloading: Learn proper spotting techniques for efficient loading/unloading.

Experienced intermodal drivers develop specific skills for handling these unique loads safely and efficiently within the complex logistics chain of container movement.

Becoming an Intermodal Truck Driver with QFS Transportation

Ready to put your intermodal container knowledge to work with a company that values your expertise? QFS Transportation offers owner-operators unparalleled opportunities across our nationwide network of over 60 terminals. Our driver-focused approach means you’ll benefit from:

• The freedom to choose lanes that match your lifestyle needs
• A dedicated safety team that prioritizes your wellbeing
• Cutting-edge mobile app technology to streamline your work
• Consistent, reliable routes in the essential intermodal sector

Take the next step in your driving career by applying today.