some information about various types of containers used for transportation and exporting:

Shipping Containers

Shipping containers are the most common type of container used for international freight transport. They come in standard sizes like 20-foot and 40-foot containers, and are made of sturdy steel or aluminum. Shipping containers can be easily loaded onto ships, trains, and trucks, making them versatile for multimodal transportation.

Bulk Containers

Bulk containers are used to transport loose, unpackaged commodities like grains, chemicals, or minerals. These include tanker containers for liquids, and silos or hoppers for dry bulk goods. Bulk containers are loaded and unloaded mechanically at ports and facilities equipped to handle them.

Refrigerated Containers

Refrigerated ("reefer") containers are climate-controlled to maintain a specific temperature for perishable goods like produce, meat, or pharmaceuticals during transport. They have built-in refrigeration units powered by electricity or diesel.

Specialized Containers

There are also more specialized containers for certain products or transport modes:

- Tank containers for liquids and gases
- Flat racks for oversized or odd-shaped cargo 
- Open-top containers for easy top loading
- Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) for chemicals and liquids

The choice of container depends on the specific cargo, transportation method, and logistics requirements of the export shipment. Using the right container helps ensure the goods arrive safely and efficiently.

There are several key factors to consider when selecting the right container for exporting goods:

1. Cargo Characteristics:
   - Type of goods (e.g. dry cargo, liquids, refrigerated, hazardous)
   - Dimensions and weight of the cargo
   - Sensitivity to temperature, humidity, or other environmental factors

2. Transportation Mode:
   - Will the container be transported by ship, rail, truck, or a combination?
   - Does the container need to be compatible with intermodal transportation?
   - Are there any restrictions or requirements for a particular transport method?

3. Container Specifications:
   - Standard sizes (e.g. 20ft, 40ft, refrigerated)
   - Construction material (e.g. steel, aluminum, composite)
   - Features like insulation, ventilation, locking mechanisms

4. Handling and Loading:
   - How will the container be loaded and unloaded?
   - Is specialized equipment required for loading/unloading?
   - Can the container be stacked or lifted by forklifts?

5. Regulatory and Safety Requirements:
   - Hazardous materials regulations
   - Customs and security protocols
   - Environmental impact and sustainability

6. Cost and Logistics:
   - Purchase or lease cost of the container
   - Transportation and handling charges
   - Available container fleets and routes

By carefully considering these factors, exporters can select the most suitable container to protect their goods, meet transportation requirements, and optimize the logistics of the export supply chain. The right container helps ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective delivery of products to international markets.

some guidelines on the best transportation methods and container types for different product categories in exporting:

1. Dry Goods:
   - Recommended: Standard dry van shipping containers (20ft or 40ft)
   - Suitable for: Non-perishable items like clothing, electronics, furniture, machinery, etc.

2. Bulk Commodities:
   - Recommended: Bulk carriers, tankers, or specialized bulk containers
   - Suitable for: Grains, minerals, chemicals, ores, etc.

3. Perishable Goods:
   - Recommended: Refrigerated ("reefer") containers
   - Suitable for: Produce, meat, seafood, pharmaceuticals, etc.

4. Hazardous Materials:
   - Recommended: Specialized hazmat containers, tank containers
   - Suitable for: Flammable, corrosive, or toxic substances

5. Oversized/Heavyweight Cargo:
   - Recommended: Flat rack containers, open-top containers
   - Suitable for: Construction equipment, vehicles, boats, etc.

6. Liquids and Gases:
   - Recommended: Tank containers, ISO liquid bulk containers
   - Suitable for: Oils, chemicals, compressed gases, etc.

7. Temperature-Sensitive Goods:
   - Recommended: Insulated, controlled-atmosphere containers
   - Suitable for: Pharmaceuticals, certain foods, chemicals, etc.

The choice also depends on factors like transport mode (sea, air, land), route, and logistics. Exporters should work closely with logistics providers to determine the optimal container and transportation solution for their specific products and shipping requirements.

When exporting from Iran, the most common and viable transportation options are:

1. Sea Transport:
   - Strengths: Cost-effective for bulk/heavy cargo, good connectivity to major global ports
   - Popular Destinations: Persian Gulf countries, India, China, Europe
   - Container Types: Standard dry containers, reefers, tankers, bulk carriers

2. Road Transport:
   - Strengths: Flexibility, accessibility to inland destinations, faster than sea
   - Popular Destinations: Neighboring countries like Turkey, Iraq, Afghanistan, Central Asia
   - Container Types: Truck trailers, refrigerated trucks

3. Rail Transport:
   - Strengths: Efficient for containerized cargo, connectivity to Central Asia and Europe
   - Popular Destinations: Turkey, Central Asia, Russia, China (via Trans-Caspian route)
   - Container Types: Intermodal containers, rail cars

4. Air Transport:
   - Strengths: Fastest transit time, suitable for high-value, time-sensitive goods
   - Popular Destinations: Middle East, Europe, Asia
   - Container Types: ULDs (Unit Load Devices) like pallets and containers

Key Considerations for Iran Exporters:

- Geopolitical factors and international sanctions may limit access to certain routes and destinations
- Multimodal transportation combining sea, road, and rail is common to optimize cost and delivery time
- Access to modern port infrastructure, warehousing, and logistics services is important
- Regulatory requirements and customs clearance procedures must be closely followed

Exporters from Iran should evaluate their specific cargo, timeline, and cost requirements to determine the most suitable transportation mode and container type for their exports.

there are several government incentives and programs available in Iran to support exporters with their logistics operations:

1. Export Facilitation Initiatives:
   - Establishment of free trade zones and special economic zones with streamlined customs and logistics procedures
   - Provision of export insurance and credit guarantees through organizations like Export Guarantee Fund of Iran
   - Availability of export financing and subsidized loans through banks and export development funds

2. Logistics Infrastructure Development:
   - Expansion and modernization of major Iranian ports like Bandar Abbas, Chabahar, and Anzali
   - Investments in rail network connectivity, including the development of the North-South Transport Corridor
   - Upgrades to road infrastructure and border crossing facilities

3. Customs and Trade Facilitation:
   - Simplified customs clearance processes and automation of documentation
   - Establishment of single-window trade facilitation platforms
   - Customs duty exemptions and tax incentives for export-oriented industries

4. Talent Development Programs:
   - Training and capacity building initiatives for logistics professionals
   - Scholarships and educational programs in transportation and supply chain management

5. Export Promotion Initiatives:
   - Organization of trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets
   - Market research and intelligence services for exporters
   - Branding and marketing support for Iranian export products

These government initiatives aim to enhance the competitiveness of Iranian exporters by improving logistics efficiency, reducing costs, and facilitating access to international markets. Exporters should stay informed about the latest developments and avail of these support measures.