The transport of different items of cargo stored in one receptacle called a “container” is of recent origin and has been called the greatest development in transport since the introduction of the steam-engine.

The advantages to be derived from the use of containers are so obvious as hardly to call for explanation. The cargoes sent for transport by different shippers are stored at the beginning of the transport by rail or lorry in a closed container, transferred to a ship and again unloaded on rail or lorry for transport to the place of ultimate destination, and only there is the container opened and the goods discharged. This manner of transport reduces the risk of shortage and damage. Packing material need not be as strong and as heavy as required in the usual way of transport outside a container, the costs of loading and discharging operations are considerably reduced, saving of storage space is possible, ships will be specially adapted for this kind of transport, the time required for the transport of cargo may be considerably shortened, insurance premiums may be calculated in accordance with the diminished risk, demurrage payments may be decreased and all concerned, including the consumer, might benefit from this revolutionary kind of transport. The container can bring the goods, as has been said, “from door to door”.