Trade volumes are growing globally as well as in India. Resultantly, digital tools are reshaping supply chains. This has got businesses across industries, from retail and manufacturing to chemicals and food are rethinking how they move their goods. Businesses rely on logistics containers to ensure their products reach the right destination safely and efficiently. As a business, when you choose correctly between dry freight containers in India and ISO tank containers in India, you can impact your margins and turnaround times.
Interestingly, the Indian logistics market is expected to reach USD 357.3 billion by 2030, that’s a CAGR of 7.7%. Companies must keep up to become faster, leaner, and more flexible. At the heart of this transformation is containerization in logistics. It helps standardize cargo movement, minimize losses, and unlock the benefits of multimodal transport. But to make it work, choosing the right container type is important. The right logistics services provider in India can make all the difference.
Dry Freight Containers in India
Dry freight containers in India are commonly used units in domestic and international logistics. These standardized steel containers (typically 20-foot or 40-foot in length) are used in the transit of dry goods such as textiles, electronics, and consumer packaged goods. The fact that they can be neatly stacked makes them a practical choice for transit between road, rail, and sea.
India moved around 20.2 million TEUs through its ports in 2023. And, this number is rising, that too at an annual growth rate of 3.5%. Businesses benefit from faster movement of goods, better port connectivity, and fewer delays at checkpoints. Having reliable access to dry containers is becoming critical for meeting just-in-time delivery timelines, increasingly preferred lately.
Things to know about dry containers:
- Follow ISO 6346 standards for identification and traceability.
- Available in 3 variants- general-purpose (GP), high-cube (HC), open-top, and refrigerated.
- Leasing models allow businesses to scale usage without large capital investments.
Liquid Logistics Services in India
Liquid logistics services in India rely on ISO tank containers for safety and efficiency. These cylindrical stainless-steel tanks (with capacity ranging from 24,000 to 26,000 liters) are mounted in 20-foot frames that comply with global ISO standards. Their capacity ranges from. Also, ISO tanks can handle high pressures and prevent contamination.
The ISO tank container market in India is expected to grow from USD 562.9 million in 2023 to USD 697.5 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 3.1%. Companies prefer ISO tanks over drums or IBCs due to their higher payload capacity, faster loading/unloading times, and lower risk of spillage or product loss. Smart ISO tanks equipped with IoT sensors now allow for real-time tracking of temperature, pressure, and fill levels. This provides greater control and transparency and works in favour of the supply chain.
Things to know about liquid containers:
- Must comply with UN, ADR, and IMDG codes for hazardous materials.
- Require specialized cleaning and maintenance between uses.
- Offer a lower carbon footprint per trip compared to single-use packaging.
Why Partner with a Logistics Services Provider in India?
Working with a full-service logistics services provider in India, gives access to expertise, infrastructure, and operational precision. It’s a given that with intensive experience, these companies bring industry-specific knowledge. Added to that, they enable access to large container fleets, and establish relationships with ports, depots, and customs authorities.
Deccan Transcon offers end-to-end solutions including container leasing, inland transportation, customs clearance, and real-time cargo tracking. Businesses also benefit from digital tools such as container visibility platforms, route optimization algorithms, and automated documentation, helping them reduce manual effort and improve decision-making.
Benefits of partnering right:
- Reduce delays and detention charges.
- Ensure compliance with global and local regulations.
- Access specialized containers (reefer, baffle, food-grade, cryogenic).
- Scale operations flexibly with demand.
Containerization in Logistics: Fueling India's Supply Chain Growth
Containerization in logistics brings standardization, speed, and scalability. It improves cargo safety by minimizing handling and packaging requirements. Government initiatives like Sagarmala and Bharatmala are driving multimodal connectivity. As a result, now even Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have access to container-based logistics.
India’s container leasing market, currently valued at around USD 660 million, is projected to reach USD 1.9 billion by 2033, growing at 11.2% CAGR. This shift is enabling small and mid-sized businesses to tap into global trade. Combined with dry ports, multimodal logistics parks (MMLPs), and private freight terminals, containerization is unlocking a more efficient, sustainable, and technology-driven logistics ecosystem.
Making the Right Choice With Containers That Keep Business Moving
Choosing the right logistics container impacts businesses largely. It can affect cost, safety, and customer satisfaction. Dry freight containers in India are great for most solid goods, offering flexibility and ease of handling. Additionally, ISO tank containers in India are safer. They are generally preferred for transporting liquids.
If you're looking for liquid logistics services in India, container leasing, or multimodal freight solutions, partner with Deccan Transcon.