Some of the most commonly used container types to transport large cargo are the 40’ single-entry container vs. the double-entry container. These two have their own specialty that you can use in certain conditions.
Read this article to know the difference between a 40’ single-entry container and a double-entry container before buying or renting one!
Contents
1. Overview of Container Types
Doors
A single-entry container has one set of double doors on one end only (the “rear”). This is the standard design used for most shipping and export operations. The doors are simpler, more secure (only one access point), ideal for sealed exports and single-destination loads.
Meanwhile, the double-entry container has two sets of double doors, one on each end. Some versions may also include side doors for additional access. This will make you have easier and faster loading/unloading. With this, you can load cargo simultaneously from both sides
Internal Length
A 40’ single-entry container has a longer internal length 39′ 5″ – 39′ 6″. Single-entry doors at one end do not reduce usable length significantly, as the back wall is solid.
Meanwhile, the 40’ double-entry container has a shorter internal length, 38′ 7″ – 39′. This is slightly shorter than single-entry internally because door frames at both ends take up space (6–12 inches total).
Security
Single-entry container security is slightly better. It only has one set of doors (rear), which simplifies locking and monitoring. Using this will make it easier to seal for export shipments, especially international FCL (Full Container Load).
On the contrary, the double-entry container security features two sets of doors (front and rear), sometimes called a tunnel container. However, extra doors increase access points for forklifts or personnel.
2. Cost and Logistics
Rental or Purchase Cost
Double-entry containers cost 10-15% more than single containers. More doors + more access points = higher purchase and rental costs because of extra materials, stronger structure, and more hardware.
Double-entry models are often considered “premium” or specialized (tunnel access, multi-door), so they carry a markup.
Loading Time
Single-entry container only has doors on one end. With this, cargo can only be loaded and unloaded from one side.
Meanwhile, a double-entry container has doors on both ends, which allow it to be loaded/unloaded from either direction.
This difference directly affects loading time and labor efficiency. On average, double-entry containers can cut loading/unloading time by 20-40% for mixed or large cargo.
Operational Flexibility
Operational flexibility is one of the most important factors when deciding between a single-entry and a double-entry 40′ container. This refers to how easily a container can adapt to different loading conditions, cargo types, and delivery requirements.
For example, how easily you can access specific cargo, how well you can plan multiple stops, and how easily you can load large or long items.
3. Recommendation Summary
Palletized and Uniform Freight
Single-entry container is best for standard palletized loads, sealed shipments, or cargo not requiring mid-point access. You don’t need to access the cargo from the middle or both ends, just load from the back and unload from the front.
Palletized and uniform freight means goods are all the same size and shape (e.g., boxes, bags, drums, or standard pallets). These are loaded in neat, even rows from one end of the container to the other.
Sealed Export Shipments
Single-entry containers have only one set of doors, which means there is only one access point to secure.
When exporting goods, customs authorities require containers to be sealed after loading using a tamper-evident seal. Fewer doors mean fewer potential entry points and a lower risk of tampering or unauthorized access during transport. This ensures the seal remains intact from origin to destination, which is essential for customs clearance.
Long Cargo
Long cargo, like pipes, beams, and machinery, is easier to load long items from both ends.
If using a single entry, it can be difficult to load if the item length is bigger than the door width; it must slide the entire length
Bulky Cargo
A double-entry container provides access from both ends to improve handling and reduce repositioning. This is ideal for oversized, awkwardly shaped, or multi-stop cargo loads requiring frequent or split unloading.
If you use a single-entry container for your bulky cargo, the unit will require careful sequencing during loading.
Cargo with Mid-Point Access
Mid-point access needs to be loaded, inspected, or unloaded from somewhere in the middle of the container, not just from the front or back.
Accessing cargo in the middle of your container is hard. Therefore, you need to use a double-entry container to open the opposite end to remove specific items.
A double-entry container has doors on both ends (and sometimes even on the sides). This means you can open either end of the 40’ container to reach specific cargo. With this, you don’t have to unload everything from the front to reach something stored in the middle or at the far end.
Domestic Logistics with Multiple Unloads
In domestic logistics, one container often carries different consignments for different delivery points. If you use a single-entry container, you can only open one end.
So, to reach cargo for the second or third delivery, you’d need to unload everything in front first, even if you don’t need it yet.
Double-entry containers solve this by letting you open the opposite end to access cargo for later stops directly.
Conclusion
The 40’ single-entry container is best for standard shipments to one destination. Meanwhile, the double entry is best for long, irregularly shaped cargo.
Buy a 40’ single-entry and double-entry container from Tradecorp. Tradecorp is a reliable storage container sales, purchase, rental, and modification service company. Tradecorp provides modification and custom shipping container services by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!
