A New Ocean Container - The Breakbulk Box

The first shipping container was invented and patented by Malcolm McLean in 1956. Now 60 years later, ATS International, which is part of Anderson Trucking Services, has designed, tested and transported a new container, the Breakbulk Box. The walls and roof of the new design lift off in a single piece which allows the cargo to be loaded directly onto the bed of the container. Cargo can be loaded from the side or the top. After cargo is secured, the top is lowered onto the bed and locked in place.

This new designs opens new possibilities for shipping freight that previously was shipped in breakbulk or on a flatrack or in an open-top container.  Unlike those containers, the breakbulk box can be stacked which opens up more floor space on the vessel for other containers.

From a claims perspective, this new box allows freight that is almost too large to fit through the container doors to be loaded without damage. It also helps protect cargo from the elements.

The International Convention for Safe containers has approved these new containers.

Allyn Contributor: Pam Leever