CONEX Trailers Upcoming Auctions

About Conex

Conex isn’t a brand, but when it comes to intermodal container trailers (aka shipping containers), Conex is the most widely used name. The word “Conex” is a portmanteau of “Container Express,” and comes from the United States Army. During World War II, the Army began to use the box-like containers to ship supplies as a way to prevent theft and in-transit damage. The rigid, corrugated steel container gained further traction in the Korean War.

In the late 1950s, Malcom McLean perfected Conex containers, making them easier to stack and move, tougher to break into, and more resistant to inclement weather. In the process, he revolutionized the shipping industry. Instead of dockworkers manually unloading and loading goods by the armload, a crane could simply lift a Conex trailer off a truck and onto the ship. When it arrived at its destination, the process worked in reverse, significantly reducing transit time. McLean even bought and converted two tanker ships to carry Conex containers on and below the deck; he named his new shipping company Sea-Land, and he sold it for $160 million in 1969.

Also known as Sea Cans, Conex containers are available in a variety of standardized heights and lengths. Some shipping containers can even be outfitted with refrigeration units for preserving perishable cargo or set up as temporary offices or living quarters. You’ll find a big selection of Conex trailers for sale on TruckPaper.com.