Containerization

Containerization (pronounced: kənˌteɪnəraɪˈzeɪʃən) is a system of intermodal freight transport using intermodal containers (also called shipping containers and ISO containers). The containers have standardized dimensions. They can be loaded and unloaded, stacked, transported efficiently over long distances, and transferred from one mode of transport to another—container ships, rail transport flatcars, and semi-trailer trucks—without being opened. The handling system is completely mechanized so that all handling is done with cranes and special forklift trucks. All containers are numbered and tracked using computerized systems.

Etymology

The term "Containerization" is derived from the word "container", which in turn comes from the Latin word "continere", meaning "to contain". The "-ization" suffix indicates the transformation of a simple concept into a more complex system.

Related Terms

Intermodal Container: A large standardized shipping container, designed and built for intermodal freight transport, meaning these containers can be used across different modes of transport – from ship to rail to truck – without unloading and reloading their cargo.
Freight Transport: The physical process of transporting commodities and merchandise goods and cargo.
ISO Containers: A container that meets the standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), including those relating to its dimensions and volume.
Container Ship: A type of cargo ship that carries all of its load in truck-size intermodal containers, in a technique called containerization.
Rail Transport: A means of transferring passengers and goods on wheeled vehicles running on rails, also known as tracks.
Semi-Trailer Truck: A combination of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailers to carry freight.