Ventilated container
Also known as: VH · VE · 20VH · 20' VH · Coffee container · Passive vent
A ventilated container is a dry container with small openings along the top and bottom rails. Air flows through it, which helps stop condensation (“container rain”) on organic cargo.
Specifications
Typical figures — exact figures vary by shipping line and manufacturer.
| Internal length | 5,888 mm |
|---|---|
| Internal width | 2,345 mm |
| Internal height | 2,385 mm |
| Door opening width | 2,335 mm |
| Door opening height | 2,276 mm |
| Tare weight | 2,400 kg |
| Max payload | 28,080 kg |
| Capacity | 32.9 m³ |
| Euro pallets (1200 × 800 mm) | 11 |
| Standard pallets (1200 × 1000 mm) | 10 |
Typical cargo
Organic goods that release moisture: green coffee beans, cocoa beans, onions, potatoes, and some seeds and nuts.
In plain words
Products like coffee and cocoa beans still contain moisture and “breathe” during the voyage. In a closed box, this moisture can collect on the roof and drip back onto the bags. The vents let warm, damp air leave and fresh air come in, without a fan (this is called passive ventilation). That is why it is often called a “coffee container”.
Ventilated containers are uncommon, and many shippers instead use standard dry containers with absorbent liners, desiccant bags, or kraft paper. Ask your forwarder which option suits your cargo and route.
Example from real shipping
A coffee exporter in Latin America ships green coffee beans in jute bags to a roaster in Turkey. The voyage crosses warm and cold seas. The exporter uses a 20' ventilated container, so moisture can escape and the bags arrive dry.
Related terms
- Insulated containerAn insulated (thermal) container has insulated walls, roof, floor, and doors, but no cooling unit of its own. It slows down temperature changes inside.
- 20' DVA 20' DV is the standard 20-foot closed steel container for general dry cargo. It is the smallest common ocean container.
- Reefer containerA reefer is a refrigerated container. It has its own cooling unit and keeps the cargo at a set temperature during the journey.
- Container typesA side-by-side comparison of the common shipping container types: sizes, weights, capacity, pallet places, and typical cargo.
Have a shipment in mind?
Tell us about your cargo, and we will explain the documents and costs for your route.
Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.