Container colours are usually given as RAL colour codes. RAL is a colour standard system created in Germany and used across Europe - including for painting shipping containers, fences, steel structures and buildings. If you know the RAL code, you can be sure the colour will be exactly the one you expect.
How to read a RAL code
Classic RAL colours (RAL Classic) are given by four digits. The first digit shows the colour group:
| First digit | Colour group |
|---|---|
| 1 | yellows |
| 2 | oranges |
| 3 | reds |
| 4 | violets |
| 5 | blues |
| 6 | greens |
| 7 | greys |
| 8 | browns |
| 9 | whites and blacks |
Colours often seen on containers
- RAL 7035 - light grey;
- RAL 7016 - anthracite grey;
- RAL 5010 - gentian blue;
- RAL 5013 - cobalt blue;
- RAL 3020 - traffic red;
- RAL 6005 - moss green;
- RAL 9010 - pure white.
Used containers are often painted in a shipping line's colours, so they come in many shades. New containers are usually made in standard RAL colours such as grey, blue or anthracite.
Why a colour may look different on screen
Keep in mind that colours on a computer or phone screen depend on the screen settings, so they can differ from the real colour. If the colour really matters, compare it with an official RAL colour card - the original RAL colour charts are available at ralcolor.com.
How to choose a container colour
- Light colours heat up less in the sun, so they suit storage and container homes.
- Dark colours such as anthracite look modern and blend well with buildings and gardens.
- Company colours make the container part of your brand - for example a pop-up shop or café.
The colour of each available container is shown under Containers in stock. If you are looking for a new container in a specific colour, tell us and we will check the options. New containers are on the New shipping containers page.