Shipping Container Sizes Guide
Shipping containers come in internationally standardized sizes. Knowing the exact dimensions will help you plan your project correctly.
Contents
20 Foot Container (20ft)
External dimensions:
- Length: 6.06m (19'10")
- Width: 2.44m (8'0")
- Height: 2.59m (8'6")
Internal dimensions:
- Length: 5.90m (19'4")
- Width: 2.35m (7'8")
- Height: 2.39m (7'10")
Capacity: 33.2 m³ (1,172 ft³)
Maximum load weight: 28,200 kg
Empty container weight: ~2,300 kg
Ideal for:
- Home or small business storage
- Offices for 1-2 people
- Compact workshops
- Studio-type residential projects
- Spaces with limited access
Main advantage: Easier to transport and place in tight spaces.
40 Foot Container (40ft)
External dimensions:
- Length: 12.19m (40'0")
- Width: 2.44m (8'0")
- Height: 2.59m (8'6")
Internal dimensions:
- Length: 12.03m (39'6")
- Width: 2.35m (7'8")
- Height: 2.39m (7'10")
Capacity: 67.7 m³ (2,390 ft³)
Maximum load weight: 26,700 kg
Empty container weight: ~3,750 kg
Ideal for:
- Commercial and industrial storage
- Offices for 4-6 people
- Workshops and warehouses
- Container homes (1-2 bedrooms)
- Stores and restaurants
Main advantage: Double the space of a 20ft, but not double the price. Best cost/space ratio.
40ft High Cube Container (40ft HC)
External dimensions:
- Length: 12.19m (40'0")
- Width: 2.44m (8'0")
- Height: 2.90m (9'6") ← 30cm taller
Internal dimensions:
- Length: 12.03m (39'6")
- Width: 2.35m (7'8")
- Height: 2.70m (8'10") ← 31cm more interior height
Capacity: 76.3 m³ (2,694 ft³)
Maximum load weight: 26,460 kg
Empty container weight: ~3,900 kg
Ideal for:
- Offices with installed ceiling
- Container homes (greater comfort)
- Spaces with air conditioning (ducts)
- Projects with ceiling electrical installations
- Showrooms and premium commercial spaces
Main advantage: The additional height makes a huge difference in comfort and interior design options.
Quick comparison
| Feature | 20ft | 40ft | 40ft HC |
|---------|------|------|---------|
| Interior length | 5.90m | 12.03m | 12.03m |
| Interior height | 2.39m | 2.39m | 2.70m |
| Capacity | 33 m³ | 68 m³ | 76 m³ |
| Floor area | ~14 m² | ~28 m² | ~28 m² |
General rule:
- Limited space or tight budget? → 20ft
- Maximum space for your money? → 40ft
- Comfort and interior design matter? → 40ft High Cube
Frequently Asked Questions
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