Samskip Multimodal and DSM develop new lightweight container

Intermodal logistics provider Samskip Multimodal and global science company DSM have developed a new, lightweight container which claims to be 20 percent lighter than its steel counterparts.

Using composite panels as a substitute to commonly used corrugated steel, the first 45 ft pallet wide high cube prototype was certified by Lloyds in June 2011, and has since been tested by Samskip for over a year.

With an extensive track-record of container innovations and a continuous drive for energy savings, user-friendliness and weight reduction opportunities, Samskip and DSM have been developing the new DSM HighQ™ container since October 2009. 

In total three prototypes have been successfully tested, convincing DSM and Samskip that the key advantage of the new container is cost efficiency. The lower tare weight in combination with an aerodynamic design leads to significant fuel savings during transport when compared to the same load as a steel container. Conversely, when used in transport modes where weight limitations apply, like rail and road, the lower weight of the container can also be turned into a payload increase for heavy commodities.

According to the companies, the new container’s flat sides make it easier to load and unload, in addition to being easier to clean and attracting less dirt. Innovative high impact corners protect the roof during container handling, giving the HighQ™ containers a longer lifetime and better protecting the cargo.
 
“We firmly believe in this lightweight container that we have thoroughly tested under the most severe situations”, says Diederick Blom, Chief Operating Officer at Samskip Multimodal. “We are extremely pleased to have had the opportunity to work in such close cooperation with DSM by sharing our industry knowledge and ideas and we look forward to welcoming the first series in our fleet next year which we will be offering to our clients”.

“This container is a true example of DSM using its innovative power to drive sustainability in our society.” says Theo Jongeling, Business Manager HighQ™ containers at DSM. “The use of composite technology reduces the impact on the environment already during the manufacturing stage and continuous to do this during the entire time that the container is operational. This solution is good for the environment and our customers' business at the same time!”

DSM is working with industrial partners to develop the supply chain of the new HighQ™ containers.