What material is typically described as a plank in container construction?

In container construction, the term "plank" commonly refers to hardwood or softwood boards. These types of wood are often utilized for constructing the flooring of shipping containers. Planks made from hardwoods, such as oak or maple, or softwoods like pine, provide the necessary durability and strength required to support heavy loads while also offering some degree of flexibility and resistance to wear.

Wooden planks are advantageous in container construction due to their availability, workability, and ability to absorb shocks during transport. Their natural properties help in creating a safe and stable environment for the stored cargo. Using hardwood or softwood is a time-honored practice and aligns with the standards expected in the container manufacturing industry.

Synthetic composite boards, plastic sheets, and metal sheeting, while they may have specific applications in various types of construction or in alternative contexts, do not fit the traditional use of "plank" in the context of container flooring.