Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major container ports covered by ShipVerse Logistics?

ShipVerse Logistics provides logistics and sea freight support connecting businesses with major container ports and shipping hubs across global markets. Our network covers key ports across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North America, South America, Africa, and other international trade regions.

Our port coverage includes major locations such as:

  • Turkey: Istanbul, Izmir, Mersin, Gemlik, Iskenderun, Izmit, Samsun and Trabzon
  • USA: Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Savannah, Seattle, Miami, Baltimore and other major ports
  • Germany: Hamburg, Bremen, Bremerhaven, Kiel, Rostock and other logistics hubs
  • China: Shanghai, Ningbo, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Tianjin, Xiamen and other major ports
  • India: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Cochin, Kandla, Jawaharlal Nehru and Visakhapatnam
  • United Kingdom: London, Liverpool, Southampton, Felixstowe, Dover and other major ports
  • Italy: Genoa, La Spezia, Livorno, Naples, Trieste, Venice and other ports
  • Spain: Barcelona, Valencia, Bilbao, Algeciras, Cartagena and other major ports
  • Netherlands: Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Antwerp-region connections and other European logistics hubs
  • Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Fremantle, Adelaide and other major ports
  • Canada: Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax, Toronto, Prince Rupert and other ports
  • Middle East: Dubai, Jebel Ali, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Dammam, Kuwait, Muscat and other regional ports
  • Asia: Singapore-region connections, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan and other major trading markets
  • Africa: Durban, Cape Town, Lagos, Port Harcourt and other key ports
  • South America: Buenos Aires, Santos, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande and other major ports

Port availability and routing depend on the cargo type, origin, destination, shipping schedule, carrier services, and current operational conditions. Contact our team to discuss the most suitable port and sea freight routing for your shipment.

Air Cargo Unit Load Devices (ULDs)

Air freight shipments require suitable cargo equipment based on the type, size, volume, and weight of the shipment. At ShipVerse Logistics, we coordinate appropriate air cargo solutions according to airline requirements and cargo specifications.

L = Length | W = Width | H = Height

Main Deck Pallet

Equivalent to IATA Type 2

Specification Details
Internal Volume 606 cu ft / 17.16 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 15,000 lb / 6,804 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 125 × 96 × 96 in
Metric Dimensions 317 × 244 × 244 cm
Configuration Contoured

LD-7

Equivalent to IATA Type 5

Specification Details
Internal Volume 379.9 cu ft / 10 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 10,200 lb / 4,627 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 125 × 88 × 63 in
Metric Dimensions 317 × 223 × 160 cm

P9A Lower Deck Pallet

Equivalent to IATA Type 6

Specification Details
Internal Volume 242 cu ft / 6.9 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 7,000 lb / 3,176 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 125 × 60 × 63 in
Metric Dimensions 317 × 152 × 160 cm

LD-11

Equivalent to IATA Type 6

Specification Details
Internal Volume 242 cu ft / 6.9 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 7,000 lb / 3,176 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 125 × 60 × 64 in
Metric Dimensions 317 × 162 × 162 cm

LD-8

Equivalent to IATA Type 6A

Specification Details
Internal Volume 243 cu ft / 6.9 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 5,400 lb / 2,450 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 96 × 60 × 64 in
Metric Dimensions 228 × 152 × 162 cm

LD-4

Equivalent to IATA Type 7A

Specification Details
Internal Volume 194 cu ft / 5 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 5,400 lb / 2,450 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 96 × 60 × 64 in
Metric Dimensions 228 × 152 × 162 cm

LD-3

Equivalent to IATA Type 8

Specification Details
Internal Volume 150 cu ft / 4 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 3,500 lb / 1,588 kg
Maximum External Dimensions 61 × 60 × 64 in
Metric Dimensions 154 × 152 × 162 cm

LD-2

Equivalent to IATA Type 8D

Specification Details
Internal Volume 120 cu ft / 3 cu m
Maximum Gross Weight 2,700 lb / 1,225 kg
Maximum External Dimensions According to applicable LD-2 configuration and airline requirements

Choosing the Right Air Freight Container

The appropriate ULD depends on the cargo dimensions, gross weight, volume, aircraft type, loading position, and airline requirements. ShipVerse Logistics can help coordinate the appropriate air freight equipment and transportation arrangement for your shipment.

For specific ULD availability and current airline acceptance requirements, please contact our logistics team with your cargo dimensions and weight.

Understanding International Trade Terms

Incoterms® are internationally recognized trade terms used in contracts for the sale of goods. They help buyers and sellers clearly define their respective responsibilities for transportation, costs, delivery, and the transfer of risk during the movement of goods.

At ShipVerse Logistics, we help customers understand the logistics responsibilities associated with different Incoterms and coordinate transportation according to the agreed terms of sale.

What Do Incoterms Define?

Incoterms help clarify important responsibilities between the seller and buyer, including:

  • Transportation arrangements
  • Delivery responsibilities
  • Allocation of transportation costs
  • Point of delivery
  • Transfer of risk
  • Export and import clearance responsibilities
  • Documentation requirements
  • Insurance responsibilities where applicable

Clear agreement on the applicable Incoterm can help reduce misunderstandings between buyers, sellers, and logistics providers.

Incoterms Are Part of the Sales Contract

Incoterms® are not laws or standalone contracts. They are contractual rules that become applicable when the buyer and seller agree to use a particular Incoterm in their sales contract.

The agreed Incoterm should be clearly stated together with the named place or destination and the applicable Incoterms® edition.

For example:

FCA Bonn, Factory II, Example Street 7, Incoterms® 2020

The exact wording and named location are important because they help establish where delivery takes place and where responsibilities and risks change from one party to the other.

Buyer & Seller Responsibilities

Each Incoterm establishes a different division of responsibilities between the seller and buyer. Depending on the selected term, responsibilities may include transportation, loading, delivery, customs formalities, insurance, and other logistics arrangements.

For this reason, buyers and sellers should select the term that matches their actual commercial agreement and logistics requirements.

Common Incoterms® 2020 Rules

For Any Mode of Transport

  • EXW – Ex Works
  • FCA – Free Carrier
  • CPT – Carriage Paid To
  • CIP – Carriage and Insurance Paid To
  • DAP – Delivered at Place
  • DPU – Delivered at Place Unloaded
  • DDP – Delivered Duty Paid

For Sea & Inland Waterway Transport

  • FAS – Free Alongside Ship
  • FOB – Free On Board
  • CFR – Cost and Freight
  • CIF – Cost, Insurance and Freight

Why Correct Incoterms Selection Matters

Choosing an appropriate Incoterm helps both parties understand who is responsible for each stage of the shipment. It can also make logistics planning, cost allocation, documentation, and risk management clearer.

However, an Incoterm should always be considered together with the complete sales contract, applicable customs requirements, and the specific circumstances of the transaction.

Plan Your Shipment with Confidence

At ShipVerse Logistics, we coordinate sea, air, road, and international logistics services according to the commercial terms agreed between the parties.

Contact our team with your shipment details and agreed Incoterm so we can help coordinate the appropriate logistics arrangements.

Full Container Load (FCL)

Full Container Load (FCL) is used when the shipment is large enough to use an entire container. The container is dedicated to the cargo of one exporter, providing a direct and organized solution for larger shipments.

FCL is suitable when the cargo volume is high or when the shipper prefers to have the container exclusively allocated to their goods. Depending on the agreed logistics arrangement, the container can be delivered to the consignee’s facility or transferred to an appropriate warehouse after arrival at the destination port.

Key Features of FCL

  • One exporter generally uses the container exclusively.
  • Suitable for larger-volume shipments.
  • Cargo is not consolidated with unrelated shipments.
  • Efficient handling for regular or high-volume cargo.
  • Available for various container types and international destinations.

Less than Container Load (LCL)

Less than Container Load (LCL) is used when a shipment does not require a full container. Cargo from multiple exporters is consolidated into the same container to make better use of available container space.

At the destination, the consolidated cargo is separated and delivered according to the individual shipment arrangements and customs requirements.

Key Features of LCL

  • Cargo from multiple exporters can share one container.
  • Suitable for smaller-volume shipments.
  • Shippers pay according to the space or volume used, subject to applicable charges.
  • Provides an option when a full container is not required.
  • Requires consolidation at origin and deconsolidation at destination.

FCL vs LCL

Feature FCL LCL
Container usage Dedicated to one shipment/exporter Shared by multiple shipments
Suitable for Larger shipments Smaller shipments
Cargo consolidation Generally not consolidated Consolidated with other cargo
Handling Fewer consolidation/deconsolidation steps Requires consolidation and deconsolidation
Cost structure Container-based Usually based on cargo volume/weight and applicable charges
Ideal for High-volume or regular shipments Smaller or occasional shipments

FCL/LCL Shipment Types

FCL/FCL: One exporter loads a full container for one importer.

LCL/LCL: Cargo from one exporter is shipped as LCL and delivered as an LCL shipment to the importer.

LCL/FCL: Multiple exporters’ cargo is consolidated into a container, which is then delivered to one importer.

FCL/LCL: One exporter loads the container, and the cargo is subsequently distributed to two or more importers.

Choosing the Right Option

The choice between FCL and LCL depends on cargo volume, shipment requirements, destination, handling requirements, transit arrangements, and overall transportation costs. ShipVerse Logistics can coordinate the appropriate sea freight solution based on the specific shipment requirements.

Below is a clean, professional ShipVerse Logistics version of the container specifications. You can paste this directly into your website.

20′ Dry Container (20 DC)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 5,897 mm 19 ft 4.17 in
Width 2,348 mm 7 ft 8.44 in
Height 2,390 mm 7 ft 9.90 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,336 mm 7 ft 8.01 in
Height 2,280 mm 7 ft 5.45 in
Weight    
Max Gross 30,480 kg 67,200 lb
Tare Weight 2,240 kg 4,940 lb
Max Loading 28,240 kg 62,260 lb
Loading Volume 33.0 m³ 1,169 ft³

40′ Dry Container (40 DC)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 12,031 mm 39 ft 5.66 in
Width 2,348 mm 7 ft 8.44 in
Height 2,390 mm 7 ft 9.90 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,336 mm 7 ft 8.01 in
Height 2,280 mm 7 ft 5.45 in
Weight    
Max Gross 32,500 kg 71,650 lb
Tare Weight 3,750 kg 8,270 lb
Max Loading 28,750 kg 63,380 lb
Loading Volume 68.0 m³ 2,385 ft³

40′ High Cube Dry Container (40 HC)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 12,031 mm 39 ft 5.66 in
Width 2,348 mm 7 ft 8.44 in
Height 2,695 mm 8 ft 10.12 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,336 mm 7 ft 8.01 in
Height 2,585 mm 8 ft 5.75 in
Weight    
Max Gross 32,500 kg 71,650 lb
Tare Weight 3,940 kg 8,690 lb
Max Loading 28,560 kg 62,960 lb
Loading Volume 76.0 m³ 2,689 ft³

45′ High Cube Dry Container (45 HC)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 13,555 mm 44 ft 5.68 in
Width 2,348 mm 7 ft 8.44 in
Height 2,695 mm 8 ft 10.12 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,336 mm 7 ft 8.01 in
Height 2,585 mm 8 ft 5.75 in
Weight    
Max Gross 32,500 kg 71,650 lb
Tare Weight 4,880 kg 10,760 lb
Max Loading 27,620 kg 60,890 lb
Loading Volume 86.0 m³ 3,031 ft³

Refrigerated Containers

20′ Reefer Container (20 RF)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 5,458 mm 17 ft 10.76 in
Width 2,290 mm 7 ft 6.16 in
Height 2,262 mm 7 ft 5.06 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,290 mm 7 ft 6.16 in
Height 2,267 mm 7 ft 5.10 in
Weight    
Max Gross 30,480 kg 67,200 lb
Tare Weight 3,120 kg 6,880 lb
Max Loading 27,360 kg 60,320 lb
Loading Volume 28.0 m³ 1,000 ft³

40′ Reefer Container (40 RF)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 11,587 mm 38 ft 0.29 in
Width 2,290 mm 7 ft 6.16 in
Height 2,539 mm 8 ft 4.00 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,290 mm 7 ft 6.16 in
Height 2,572 mm 8 ft 5.40 in
Weight    
Max Gross 34,000 kg 74,960 lb
Tare Weight 4,700 kg 10,360 lb
Max Loading 29,300 kg 64,595 lb
Loading Volume 67.0 m³ 2,378 ft³

Open Top Containers

20′ Open Top Container (20 OT)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 5,893 mm 19 ft 4.21 in
Width 2,346 mm 7 ft 8.36 in
Height 2,384 mm 7 ft 9.74 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,338 mm 7 ft 8.05 in
Height 2,244 mm 7 ft 4.35 in
Weight    
Max Gross 30,480 kg 67,200 lb
Tare Weight 2,320 kg 5,120 lb
Max Loading 28,160 kg 62,080 lb
Loading Volume 33.0 m³ 1,155 ft³

40′ Open Top Container (40 OT)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 12,032 mm 39 ft 5.31 in
Width 2,346 mm 7 ft 8.36 in
Height 2,381 mm 7 ft 9.74 in
Door Opening    
Width 2,338 mm 7 ft 8.05 in
Height 2,244 mm 7 ft 4.35 in
Weight    
Max Gross 30,480 kg 67,200 lb
Tare Weight 4,120 kg 9,080 lb
Max Loading 26,360 kg 58,120 lb
Loading Volume 66.0 m³ 2,346 ft³

Flat Rack Containers

20′ Flat Rack Container (20 FR)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 5,958 mm 19 ft 4.17 in
Width 2,018 mm 6 ft 7.45 in
Height 2,077 mm 6 ft 9.77 in
Door Opening Not applicable Not applicable
Weight    
Max Gross 30,480 kg 67,200 lb
Tare Weight 2,720 kg 6,000 lb
Max Loading 27,760 kg 62,120 lb
Loading Volume 25.0 m³ 882 ft³

40′ Flat Rack Container (40 FR)

Specification Metric Imperial
Internal Dimensions    
Length 11,986 mm 39 ft 3.89 in
Width 2,236 mm 7 ft 4.03 in
Height 1,968 mm 6 ft 5.48 in
Door Opening Not applicable Not applicable
Weight    
Max Gross 45,000 kg 99,210 lb
Tare Weight 5,980 kg 13,180 lb
Max Loading 39,020 kg 86,030 lb
Loading Volume 53.0 m³ 1,862 ft³

Important Note

Container dimensions, maximum gross weight, tare weight, and payload can vary depending on the container manufacturer, equipment specification, carrier, and applicable regulations. The figures above should therefore be treated as reference specifications and confirmed for the specific container and shipment before booking.

Understanding Dangerous Goods in Transportation

Dangerous goods are substances or articles that may present risks to people, property, the environment, or transportation operations because of their chemical or physical properties. International regulations classify dangerous goods into nine classes, based on the type of hazard they present.

The classification helps determine the appropriate packaging, labeling, documentation, handling, storage, and transportation requirements.

CLASS 1 — EXPLOSIVES

Explosives are substances or articles capable of producing an explosive reaction, generating intense heat, gases, pressure, or other hazardous effects.

They require specialized handling, packaging, segregation, and transportation procedures.

Examples include: fireworks, ammunition, detonators, certain explosive chemicals, and other regulated explosive articles.

Divisions of Class 1

  1. Division 1.1 – Substances and articles with a mass explosion hazard.
  2. Division 1.2 – Substances and articles with a projection hazard.
  3. Division 1.3 – Substances and articles presenting a fire hazard with a minor blast or projection hazard.
  4. Division 1.4 – Substances and articles presenting no significant hazard beyond the package.
  5. Division 1.5 – Very insensitive substances with a mass explosion hazard.
  6. Division 1.6 – Extremely insensitive articles without a mass explosion hazard.

CLASS 2 — GASES

Class 2 covers gases transported under pressure or in other regulated forms.

Class 2.1 — Flammable Gases

Gases that can ignite when exposed to an ignition source.

Examples: Acetylene, hydrogen, methane, propane and ethylene.

Class 2.2 — Non-Flammable, Non-Toxic Gases

Gases that are neither flammable nor toxic but may present pressure or asphyxiation hazards.

Examples: Nitrogen, helium, carbon dioxide and compressed air.

Class 2.3 — Toxic Gases

Gases that may cause serious health effects or poisoning when inhaled.

Examples: Chlorine, ammonia and certain toxic industrial gases.

CLASS 3 — FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS

Flammable liquids are liquids capable of producing flammable vapors and igniting under specified conditions.

They require appropriate packaging, labeling, segregation, and protection from ignition sources.

Examples: Gasoline, certain solvents, paints, thinners and other regulated flammable liquids.

CLASS 4 — FLAMMABLE SOLIDS; SUBSTANCES LIABLE TO SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION; SUBSTANCES THAT EMIT FLAMMABLE GASES WHEN WET

Class 4.1 — Flammable Solids

Solids that can readily ignite or contribute to fire through friction, heat, or other sources of ignition.

Examples: Certain metal powders, matches, sulfur and red phosphorus.

Class 4.2 — Substances Liable to Spontaneous Combustion

Materials that may heat up and ignite spontaneously under certain conditions.

Examples: Certain charcoal products, oily materials and self-heating substances.

Class 4.3 — Substances Which Emit Flammable Gases When in Contact With Water

Substances that react with water and release flammable gases.

Examples: Certain metal hydrides, sodium, calcium carbide and other water-reactive materials.

CLASS 5 — OXIDIZING SUBSTANCES AND ORGANIC PEROXIDES

Class 5.1 — Oxidizing Substances

Oxidizing substances can cause or intensify combustion by releasing oxygen or supporting combustion.

Examples: Certain nitrates, chlorates and other oxidizing chemicals.

Class 5.2 — Organic Peroxides

Organic peroxides can be thermally unstable and may present fire, decomposition, or reaction hazards.

They require controlled handling, appropriate packaging, and temperature management where applicable.

Examples: Certain organic peroxide compounds used in industrial and manufacturing processes.

CLASS 6 — TOXIC AND INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCES

Class 6.1 — Toxic Substances

Substances that may cause serious injury, illness, or death if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.

Examples: Certain pesticides, cyanide compounds, arsenic compounds, mercury compounds and other toxic chemicals.

Class 6.2 — Infectious Substances

Substances containing pathogens or materials reasonably expected to contain pathogens that can cause disease in humans or animals.

Examples: Certain diagnostic specimens, cultures, clinical samples and regulated medical materials.

CLASS 7 — RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL

Radioactive materials contain radionuclides and can present radiation hazards during transportation.

They require specialized packaging, labeling, documentation, handling, and regulatory controls.

Examples: Certain radioactive medical, industrial, research, and nuclear materials.

CLASS 8 — CORROSIVE SUBSTANCES

Corrosive substances can cause serious damage to living tissue or corrode metals and other materials.

They require suitable packaging and careful handling to prevent leakage, exposure, and damage to other cargo.

Examples: Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and certain corrosive alkaline substances.

CLASS 9 — MISCELLANEOUS DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES AND ARTICLES

Class 9 covers dangerous substances and articles that present transportation hazards but do not fall within Classes 1–8.

Examples include: Lithium batteries, dry ice, environmentally hazardous substances, and certain other regulated articles.

Dangerous Goods Transportation

The transportation of dangerous goods is subject to applicable international, national, carrier, port, and regulatory requirements. Classification alone does not determine whether a shipment can be accepted.

Before transportation, the proper shipping name, UN number, hazard class/division, packing group where applicable, packaging, labeling, documentation, quantity, and applicable transport mode requirements should be confirmed.

ShipVerse Logistics can coordinate dangerous goods transportation requirements according to the applicable shipment details and regulatory conditions.

L = Length, W = Width, H = Height, m³ = Total Volume (Cubic Meter)

Below is a clean ShipVerse Logistics version for your website.

TRUCK TYPE L (m) W (m) H (m) VOLUME (m³)
Tilt Truck 13.60 2.42 2.40 79
Tilt Truck – High Volume 13.60 2.42 2.60 86
Jumbo Truck 3.10 2.42 2.55 79
Standard Truck 9.10 2.42 2.75 —
Standard Truck 3.50 2.42 2.45 —
Standard Truck 8.70 2.42 2.95 —
Normal with Trailer TIR (Optima) 6.20 2.42 2.50 —
Normal with Trailer TIR (Optima) 8.30 2.42 2.50 87
Jumbo with Trailer 7.80 2.44 2.85 110
Jumbo with Trailer 8.10 2.44 2.85 —
Normal Open Trailer Up to 18.00 2.44 — —
Truck with Dumper — — — Up to 25
Jumbo Open Trailer Up to 18.00 2.44 — —
Lowbed Truck — — — —

Important Note

Truck dimensions and loading capacities may vary depending on the vehicle type, trailer configuration, carrier, equipment specifications, and applicable road regulations. The above figures should be treated as reference values and confirmed for the specific shipment before transportation.

ShipVerse Logistics can coordinate suitable road freight equipment according to cargo dimensions, weight, volume, loading requirements, and destination.

When calculating transportation costs, cargo volume can be as important as cargo weight. Depending on the mode of transportation and the type of shipment, freight charges may be determined using either the actual weight, volumetric weight, or the applicable chargeable weight.

Sea Cargo Volume Calculation

For sea freight, cargo volume can be calculated using the following formula:

Volume (m³) = Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Height (cm) ÷ 1,000,000

Example

If the cargo dimensions are:

  • Length: 200 cm
  • Width: 100 cm
  • Height: 100 cm

Volume = 200 × 100 × 100 ÷ 1,000,000 = 2.00 m³

Chargeable Weight for Partial Sea Cargo

For LCL / partial sea freight, the applicable charge may depend on the relationship between cargo volume and weight.

As a general reference, where the cargo weight exceeds the applicable weight equivalent of its volume, the actual weight may be considered for freight calculation.

Volume & Weight Conversion Reference

Mode of Transport Volume Basis Weight Equivalent
Air Freight 1 m³ 167 kg
Truck & Air 1 m³ 167 kg
Land Freight 1 m³ 333 kg
Sea Freight 1 m³ 1,000 kg

How to Use the Conversion

The above figures can be used as a reference for comparing cargo volume and weight when determining the applicable chargeable basis.

For example, for air freight:

1 m³ = 167 kg volumetric equivalent

Therefore:

3 m³ × 167 kg = 501 kg

The applicable chargeable weight may then depend on the carrier’s tariff and whether the actual or volumetric weight is greater.

Important: Actual freight calculations can vary by carrier, route, cargo type, service, and applicable tariff. The final chargeable weight should always be confirmed with the carrier or logistics provider before booking.