Container Ships

What is a container ship?

A container ship is a cargo vessel specifically built to transport intermodal containers. These ships come in various sizes, from small feeder ships to ultra-large vessels that carry thousands of containers across global shipping lanes. Their modular design allows for quick loading and unloading, making them the backbone of international trade.

Common uses for container ships include:

• Transporting consumer goods such as electronics, clothing, and household items.
• Moving industrial equipment and machinery across supply chains.
• Shipping food products in refrigerated containers.
• Supporting e-commerce businesses with large-scale freight solutions.

Container ships provide a scalable and efficient method for transporting cargo, making them indispensable in global logistics.

Different types of container ships

Small container ships

Ideal for regional and short-sea shipping, small container ships typically carry between 500 and 3,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units). These vessels are commonly used for feeder services, transporting containers between smaller ports and major hubs.

Panamax and post-Panamax container ships

These mid-sized ships, ranging from 3,000 to 14,000 TEU, are designed to pass through the Panama Canal. They are widely used for transatlantic and transpacific trade routes.

Ultra-large container ships

With capacities exceeding 14,000 TEU, these vessels transport massive volumes of cargo between the world’s largest ports. Their economies of scale help reduce shipping costs per unit.

Specialized container ships

Some container ships are equipped with refrigerated containers for perishable goods or modified to transport oversized cargo that does not fit standard containers.

Container ship prices and key factors affecting cost

The price of a container ship varies based on several factors, including size, age, condition, and market demand.

• New container ship price: A newly built vessel can range from $10 million for a small container ship to over $150 million for a large vessel.
• Used container ship price: Pre-owned ships offer cost savings, with prices varying depending on maintenance history and modifications.
• Fuel efficiency and technology: Ships with modern engines and emission-reducing systems tend to have a higher price but offer long-term savings.
• Market conditions: Prices fluctuate based on global trade demand, shipyard availability, and fuel costs.

Hendricks Shipping Group provides insights into the latest market trends and container ship prices, helping clients make informed purchasing decisions.

Finding a container ship for sale

When looking for a container ship for sale, businesses should consider:

• Cargo capacity: Ensuring the vessel meets current and future shipping needs.
• Operational efficiency: Evaluating fuel consumption, maintenance costs, and handling systems.
• Regulatory compliance: Checking if the ship meets international maritime standards.
• Port compatibility: Confirming that the vessel size aligns with port infrastructure.

We assist in identifying the right ship, whether it’s a small container ship for regional trade or a large vessel for global operations.

Buy or charter a container ship with Hendricks Shipping Group

Whether you need a small container ship, want to compare container ship prices, or are searching for a container ship for sale, our team offers expert guidance to help you find the best solution for your business.

Contact us

Phone: +31 6 53244870
Email: hs@hsbv.nl

Let us help you secure a reliable container ship for your shipping operations.