If you're wondering what shipping companies do with all those containers, here's a rundown of the most common uses for them.
Most containers are used to transport goods by sea, but they can also be used to move goods by land or air. Shipping containers come in a variety of sizes, but the most common size is 20 feet long, 8 feet wide and 8 feet tall. These dimensions were established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in order to allow containers to be stacked on top of each other on ships and in storage facilities.
Containers can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum and even wood. The type of material used depends on the intended use of the container - for example, steel is better suited for carrying heavy loads, while aluminum is lighter and thus more suitable for transporting delicate items.
Once a container has been used to transport goods from one location to another, it needs to be cleaned before it can be used again. This cleaning process is known as container washing. Shipping companies have special facilities where containers are washed with high-pressure hoses and chemicals that remove any dirt, grime or residue that may have built up during transit.
After being washed, the container is inspected to make sure that it meets all safety standards before being released back into service.