standardised cargo containers

[Gasboy]

I think you have made a wonderful case why the Trader should not use detachable cargo pods.

No, pirates are a wonderful case FOR having cargo containers. Pirates are generally after one thing: cargo. Dropping your cargo containers gives you a better chance at survival. Lose your cargo but keep your ship.

 

[Scypio]

Also you can drop empty container or even build decoy and keep the ones that are full.

 

[Stormraven]

There's also the "cool" factor. That's not to be overlooked