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Matching Container Size & Type to Cargo: The Challenge of Optimizing Vessel Slots
kesesuaian ukuran dan jenis kontainer dengan muatan

In the world of sea logistics, choosing the right container type and size is not just about availability—it directly impacts vessel loading efficiency. This is especially critical in domestic shipping, where every slot on a vessel carries value and must be optimized to the fullest.

Understanding Container Types and Their Suitability for Cargo

Containers come in various types and sizes to accommodate different shipping needs. The most commonly used types include:

  • Dry Container: The most standard container type, used for general cargo such as clothing, electronics, dry food, and industrial goods. Available in 20ft and 40ft sizes.
  • Reefer Container (Refrigerated): Designed for temperature-sensitive cargo such as fresh produce, meat, frozen food, and pharmaceuticals.
  • Open Top Container: Ideal for oversized or tall cargo that cannot be loaded through standard container doors, such as heavy machinery, logs, or construction equipment.

Using the wrong container type can lead to serious consequences, from damaged cargo to wasted space onboard. For example, loading light cargo into a 40ft container when a 20ft would suffice results in “wasted slots”—space used inefficiently on the vessel.

The Challenge of Optimizing Domestic Vessel Slots

Domestic shipping operators face the constant challenge of balancing diverse container types while maximizing space usage onboard. Some of the common issues include:

  • Imbalance in Container Type Demand: For instance, high outbound demand for reefer containers from one port may not be matched with return cargo requiring the same type, leading to costly repositioning.
  • Oversized Cargo: Certain cargo types require open top or flat rack containers, which take up more space than standard dry containers and affect the vessel’s loading capacity.
  • Mixed Load Planning: Combining different container types in one voyage requires meticulous stowage planning to maintain vessel stability and ensure efficient loading/unloading.

The Solution: Knowledge & Collaboration Between Shippers and Operators

Overcoming these challenges requires shippers to understand cargo characteristics and choose the appropriate container. Close collaboration with shipping lines allows for more strategic load planning, such as:

  • Early Booking & Container Requests: Providing accurate cargo and container needs ahead of time helps operators allocate resources and slots more efficiently.
  • Educating Shippers on Container Types: Container selection should be based not only on availability but on the cargo’s specific requirements to achieve optimal efficiency.

PT SPIL’s End-to-End Container Solutions

As a leading provider of integrated logistics and domestic shipping services, PT SPIL understands the critical role container suitability plays in vessel efficiency. Offering a wide range of container types—including dry, reefer, and open top—SPIL is equipped to handle cargo from various industries.

Through its digital platform MySPIL Reloaded, customers can book containers that match their cargo needs, check availability in real time, and receive recommendations on the most appropriate container type. SPIL’s customer support team also offers expert consultation to ensure each shipment is efficient, effective, and fit for purpose.

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