Twentyfooters

Twentyfooters, also known as ISO containers or shipping containers, are standardized intermodal cargo containers. They are a crucial component of the global logistics system, facilitating the efficient transport of goods by sea, rail, and road. The name "twentyfooter" refers to the most common size, which is nominally 20 feet long. More precisely, a standard 20-foot container has external dimensions of 20 feet (6.10 meters) in length, 8 feet (2.44 meters) in width, and 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 meters) in height.

These containers are designed for durability and ease of handling. Constructed from steel, they can withstand harsh weather conditions and the stresses of repeated loading and unloading. Their standardized dimensions allow them to be seamlessly transferred between different modes of transport without repackaging the contents. This intermodal capability is a key factor in reducing shipping costs and transit times.

Beyond their primary use in shipping, twentyfooters have found a secondary life in various other applications. Their robust construction and modular nature make them suitable for use as storage units, pop-up shops, temporary housing, and even as components in larger architectural projects. The widespread availability and relatively low cost of used containers have driven this diversification of their use.