Bigger can be better: The benefits of 53-foot containers

In 2020, business across the globe learned the true value of a reliable and flexible supply chain. As entire regions or countries shut down due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, shippers scrambled for alternate suppliers, warehousing space and allocation with ocean carriers.

Shippers choose their mode of shipping depending on cargo type, relative costs and final destination. In most cases, the logistics behind shipping the cargo will involve multiple modes of transportation such as ocean transport, rail or over-the-road trucking.

The ultimate goal is to create an efficient, seamless supply chain and for more than 30-years, Trailer Bridge has been doing just that. Trailer Bridge partnerswith shippers to find efficiencies with it’s fleet of 53-foot containers and full-service logistics solutions designed to meet each customer’s needs.

Shippers began using 53-foot containers in the 1990’s for their many benefits including ability to easily transition from various modes of transportation and significant cost savings with additional capacity. While this size box is standard for domestic freight, it is not for international ocean shipping but can especially support the needs of those looking to move freight to the Caribbean.

Bigger can be better for shippers. Here are 4 advantages of utilizing a 53-foot container to move your cargo.

Advantages of a 53-foot container

1. These containers offer 37% more capacity than their 40-foot counterparts, typically 416 square feet compared to 320 square feet with a 40-foot box. Additional capacity means more room for cargo, which lowers the per-unit shipment cost for customers, reduces the overall supply chain footprint and shortens the time to deliver to the end-user.
2. The additional capacity allows for better equipment allocation. Designed for intermodal transportation, you can load the 53-foot container at the manufacturing facility, transport it to the ocean or railyard and deliver the goods to the final destination by truck – all in the same container. Reducing the number of cargo touchpoints and increasing cost savings.
3. An industry standard in North America, 53-foot containers require no special modifications or specialized equipment. The containers can move throughout the supply chain without costly delays caused by repackingcargofor various modes of transport as well as reduced risk of damage to the goods as they remain in the container from ramp to ramp.
4. Transporting more cargo or larger equipment with an additional foot of headroom with a 53-foot container.

Trailer Bridge provides customers coast-to-coast coverage throughout North America (including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and the US Virgin Islands) via ocean shipping, ground transportation, intermodal and rail.

What’s more, Trailer Bridge customers can count on the consistently excellent service we provide. As an award-winning company, we’re 100% committed to the enhanced value that exceptional teamwork, culture, and service provides our customers.

Recent accolades include:

• Inc. Best WorkplaceWinner 2020 & 2021
• #1 Place to Work in Jacksonville 2020
• #1 Voted Ocean Carrier in the Quest for Quality Awards by Logistics Management
• Top maritime business in Jacksonville, FL ranked by the Jacksonville Business Journal

Get a free quote now or call the logistics experts at Trailer Bridge at 800.727.3859 to find out how we can make it happen for you.