July 20, 2023 in Blog, Container Trading
Authored on July 20, 2023 by
Abigail Munroe,xChange AuthorLast edited on June 7, 2024 by
Surupasree Sarmmah,xChange AuthorLinkedInFacebookX
Understanding shipping container sizes can help you ship your cargo safely. This blog will give you a rundown on different container sizes and help you find your desired units at the best price, from vetted suppliers on Container xChange.
Table of Contents
With so many shipping container sizes available, you must choose the right one. It’s one of the most important business decisions you’ll make to keep your cargo safe.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has ensured that all containers of a specific type adhere to strict size, shipping container dimensions, and construction guidelines. This was done because standardized container sizes cut the loading times by up to an astonishing three weeks.
Typically, shipping containers come in three popular sizes 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft with an approximate width of 8 feet. They are available in two height variations – the standard height is 8 feet 6 inches and the high cube version measures 9 feet 6 inches tall. The high cube offers extra storage capacity and improved air circulation.
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Shipping Container Dimensions (Metric)
For a detailed look at the measurements and specifications of shipping containers, we have curated a table (below) with Metric sizes. Click here for Imperial measurements
| Container type | Internal Dimensions (LxWxH) | Cubic Capacity (m3) | Payload capacity (kg) | Tare weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Dry Containers | ||||
| 10ft Standard Dry Container | 3.5m x 2.44m x 2.59m | |||
| 20ft Standard Dry Container | 5.9m x 2.35m x 2.39m | 33.2 m³ | 25,000 kg | 2,300 kg |
| 40ft Standard Dry Container | 12.03m x 2.4m x 2.39m | 67.7 m³ | 27,600 kg | 3,750 kg |
| High Cube Containers | ||||
| 10ft High Cube Container | 3.5m x 2.44m x 2.89m | |||
| 20ft High Cube Container | 5.90m x 2.35m x 2.69m | 37.2 m³ | 28,160 kg | 2,315 kg |
| 40ft High Cube Container | 12.03m x 2.35m x 2.7m | 76.4 m³ | 28,600 kg | 3,900 kg |
| 45ft High Cube Container | 13.55m x 2.35m x 2.7m | 86.0 m³ | 27,700 kg | 4,800 kg |
| 53ft High Cube Container | 16.15m x 2.44m x 2.89m | |||
| Reefer Containers | ||||
| 20ft Reefer Container | 5.44m x 2.29m x 2.27m | 28.3 m³ | 27,400 kg | 3,080 kg |
| 40ft Reefer Container | 11.56m x 2.28m x 2.25m | 59.3 m³ | 27,700 kg | 4,800 kg |
| 40ft Reefer High Cube Container | 11.56m x 2.29m x 2.55m | 67.3 m³ | 29,520 kg | 4,480 kg |
| Double Door Containers | ||||
| 20ft Double Door Container | 3.5m x 2.35m x 2.39m | 33.0 m³ | 25,000 kg | 2,300 kg |
| 40ft Double Door Container | 12.03m x 2.4m x 2.39m | 67.7 m³ | 27,600 kg | 3,750 kg |
| 40ft Double Door High Cube Container | 12.03m x 2.34m x 2.69m | 76.3 m³ | 27,600 kg | 5,200 kg |
| Open Top Containers | ||||
| 20ft Open Top Container | 5.89m x 2.35m x 2.35m | 32.7 m³ | 28,220 kg | 2,260 kg |
| 40ft Open Top Container | 12.03m x 2.4m x 2.34m | 66.7 m³ | 26,500 kg | 3,980 kg |
| 40ft Open Top High Cube Container | 12.03m x 2.35m x 2.7m | 74.9 m³ | 28,250 kg | 4,250 kg |
| Pallet Wide Containers | ||||
| 20ft Pallet Wide Container | 5.89m x 2.44m x 2.39m | 34.3 m³ | 28,080 kg | 2,400 kg |
| 40ft Pallet Wide Container | 12.03m x 2.44m x 2.38m | 69.8 m³ | 26,680 kg | 3,800 kg |
| 40ft Pallet Wide High Cube Container | 13.55m x 2.41m x 2.69m | 86.2 m³ | 29,720 kg | 4,280 kg |
| Flat Rack Containers | ||||
| 20ft Flat Rack Container | 5.94m x 2.35m x 2.35m | 32.7 m³ | 30,140 kg | 2,360 kg |
| 40ft Flat Rack Container | 12.13m x 2.4m x 2.14m | 62.2 m³ | 40,000 kg | 5,000 kg |
| Side Door Containers | ||||
| 20ft Side Door Container | 5.9m x 2.35m x 2.34m | 33.0 m³ | 27,780 kg | 2,700 kg |
| 40ft Side Door Container | 12.03m x 2.28m x 2.29m | 64.0 m³ | 27,300 kg | 4,700 kg |
| 40ft Side Door High Cube Container | 12.03m x 2.34m x 2.69m | 76.3 m³ | 28,600 kg | 5,200 kg |
| Hard Top Containers | ||||
| 20ft Hard Top Container | 5.89m x 2.35m x 2.35m | 32.7 m³ | 28,220 kg | 2,260 kg |
| 40ft Hard Top Container | 12.03m x 2.4m x 2.34m | 66.7 m³ | 26,500 kg | 3,980 kg |
| 40ft Hard Top High Cube Container | 12.03m x 2.4m x 2.69m | 76.3 m³ | 28,600 kg | 5,200 kg |
| Tank Containers | ||||
| 20ft Tank Container | 6.05m x 2.438m x 2.59m | 26,000 liters | 31,940 kg | 4,060 kg |
| Insulated Containers | ||||
| 20ft Insulated Container | 5.75m x 2.26m x 2.11m | 27.4 m³ | 21,350 kg | 2,650 kg |
| 40ft Insulated Container | 1.561m x 2.28m x 2.249m | 59.1 m³ | 27,700 kg | 4,800 kg |
| Half Height Containers | ||||
| 20ft Half Height Container | 5.88m x 2.22m x 0.94m | 12.2 m³ | 10,000 kg | 2,378 kg |
The above dimensions and weights are approximate as they vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Standard shipping container sizes: An overview
The most popular container sizes are 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft, long, each at around 8 feet wide. The height of each shipping container varies between standard height (8 feet 6 inches) and high cube (9 feet 6 inches), which are often used to increase storage space, especially for cargo with greater heights. Apart from these, the 10ft HC, 40ft HC 45ft HC, and 53ft HC have also favored picks among industry veterans. We’re going to explore all of them in detail below so you can pick the right container size to keep your goods safe for your next shipment.
Standard containers: 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft containers
As previously stated, the most common and popular container sizes in the market are standard dry containers. These units are capable of transporting most kinds of dry freight, including barrels, bags, pallets, and cartons. Additionally, they can have interior customizations made to hold particular kinds of goods. Hangers, for example, can be inserted to hold clothing that will be taken straight to the retailer.
These standard shipping containers are usually made of steel or aluminum and come in two main sizes: 20ft and 40ft, and their smaller counterpart the 10ft. They’re also airtight and water-resistant, preventing container damage from the outside. And the best part, is they’re also one of the most affordable sizes in the market.
Let’s take a deeper look into their sizes and dimensions now.
20ft container size
| 20ft container dimensions | |
| Internal length | 5.9m / 19.4ft |
| Internal width | 2.35m / 7.8ft |
| Internal height | 2.39m / 7.9ft |
| Tare weight | 2,300kg / 5,071.5 lbs |
| Payload capacity | 25,000kg / 55,126.9 lbs |
| Cubic capacity | 33.2m3 / 1,172 cu ft |
20ft containers are one of the most affordable containers in the market. You can get 20ft containers for $800 in some locations on our platform (such as India)! Click here to check out the prices of 20ft containers in your preferred location.
40ft container size
| 40ft container dimensions | |
| Internal length | 12.03m / 39.5ft |
| Internal width | 2.4m / 7.9ft |
| Internal height | 2.39m / 7.9ft |
| Tare weight | 2,389 cu ft / 67,7 cu m |
| Payload capacity | 61,200 lbs / 27,600 kg |
| Cubic capacity | 8,268.8 lbs / 3,750 kg |
The 40ft container has twice the height of a 20ft container. This is suitable if you have cargo that won’t fit inside a 20ft container. Choosing one 40ft container in this case will be more cost-effective than choosing two 20ft containers, as one 40ft container is just 30% more expensive than one 20ft unit.
Compare prices of two 20fts to one 40ft on our dashboard and see for yourself how 40ft containers are more cost-effective for larger volumes of cargo.
10ft container size
In contrast to large volumes of cargo, say you need a little less space for your freight instead. Our 10ft shipping container is a compact powerhouse designed for space and efficiency. At just 10 feet in length, this shipping container may be small, but it packs a punch. Perfect for urban spaces, small businesses in need of storage, or even personal use, it’s your solution to storage constraints without sacrificing capacity. Take a look at the dimensions below.
| Measure | 10ft container dimensions |
| Length | 10ft/3.5m |
| Width | 8ft/2.44m |
| Height | 8.5ft/2.59m |
Find an easy solution to your more tailored needs and learn how you can get your hands on this box over on the Container xChange platform.
High cube containers
High cubes (HC) are similar in structure to dry containers. The length and width remain the same but the height increases by 1 foot. This enables them to meet more cargo demands and makes for good storage space for inventory. High cube container sizes include 10ft HC, 40ft HC, 45ft HC, and 53ft HC. Since these containers have additional height, they serve as storage containers for your cargo in comparison to 20ft or 40ft sizes. They’re also used to transport large, bulky, and higher-volume cargo that does not fit well in standard containers.
Let’s explore their sizes and dimensions in detail below.
10HC container size
With an extra foot of height compared to the standard 10ft containers, the 10ft high cube variant makes it ideal for transporting taller items, setting up unconventional pop-up spaces, or creating innovative mobile offices. Have a look at the dimensions below:
| Measure | 10ft HC container dimensions |
| Length | 10ft/3.5m |
| Width | 8ft/2.44m |
| Height | 9.5ft/2.89m |
If you want a 10ft HC on our platform you can find your unit at top deals from top companies at competitive rates with no hidden fees.
40HC container size
A 40ft high cube shipping container is the same size as a 40ft container – but with an additional foot in height. Take a look at the 40ft HC shipping container size chart below.
| Dimensions of 40ft HC container | |
| Internal length | 12.03 m / 39.5 ft |
| Internal width | 2.35 m / 7.8 ft |
| Internal height | 2.67 m / 8.9 ft |
| Tare weight | 3,940 kg / 8,687 lbs |
| Payload capacity | 28,600 kg / 63,052 lbs |
| Cubic capacity | 76.3 m3 / 2,694.5 cu ft |
Cargo-worthy 40ft HC containers cost anywhere between $1600 to $2000. But on our platform, you can get these containers for as low as $1,500! Click here to check out more such offers in 2500+ locations globally.
45ft HC container size
45ft high cube standard shipping containers give you maximum space for your cargo. Take a look at the dimensions of this container in the table below.
| Dimensions of 45ft HC container | |
| Internal length | 13.55 m / 44.5 ft |
| Internal width | 2.35 m / 7.8 ft |
| Internal height | 2.67 m / 8.9 ft |
| Tare weight | 4,820 kg / 10,628 lbs |
| Payload capacity | 27,860 kg / 61,431 lbs |
| Cubic capacity | 86 m3 / 3,036 cu ft |
45ft HC containers are more expensive than 40ft HC containers. Click here to check out the price difference between the two in your location.
53ft HC container size
Looking for a little more size? Well, the 53ft high cube container is the perfect solution for voluminous storage needs and seamless transport of oversized cargo. This container has an expansive 53-foot length, so it’s a better choice for efficiently storing large quantities of goods during shipping. This container can transport machinery and oversized equipment or serve as a central hub for storage in industrial settings. So, it’s the ultimate box regardless of what you’re looking for.
Below are the dimensions for the 53ft HC shipping container.
| Measure | 53ft HC shipping container dimensions |
| Length | 53ft/16.15m |
| Width | 8ft/2.44m |
| Height | 9.6 ft/2.89m |
If you want a 53ft HC, you can connect with 1700+ vetted members to buy containers from. Our platform allows you to connect directly with vetted container suppliers, negotiate better offers, and make secure payments. Try it today!
Apart from all these container sizes mentioned above, there are also various special container types you should be aware of. You can get a lowdown on those on our separate blog on 12 container types.
Here’s a quick overview of the Imperial measurements of container sizes and their specifications. Click here for Metric measurements
| Container type | Internal Dimensions (LxWxH) | Cubic Capacity (cu ft) | Payload capacity (lb) | Tare weight (lb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Dry Containers | ||||
| 10ft Standard Dry Container | ||||
| 20ft Standard Dry Container | 19.36ft x 7.71ft x 7.84ft | 1,172 cu ft | 55,126 lbs | 5,071 lbs |
| 40ft Standard Dry Container | 39.47ft x 7.87ft x 7.84ft | 2,389 cu ft | 61,200 lbs | 8,268 lbs |
| High Cube Containers | ||||
| 10ft High Cube Container | 11.48ft x 8.01ft x 9.48ft | |||
| 20ft High Cube Container | 19.36ft x 7.72ft x 8.85ft | 62,082 lbs | 5,103 lbs | |
| 40ft High Cube Container | 39.47ft x 7.71ft x 8.86ft | 2,694 cu ft | 8,598 lbs | |
| 45ft High Cube Container | 44.46ft x 7.71ft x 8.86ft | 3,037 cu ft | 61,067 lbs | 10,552 lbs |
| 53ft High Cube Container | 52.99ft x 8.01ft x 9.48ft | |||
| Reefer Containers | ||||
| 20ft Reefer Container | 17.85ft x 7.51ft x 7.45ft | 999 cu ft | 60,471 lbs | 6,791.4 lbs |
| 40ft Reefer Container | 37.93ft x 7.48ft x 7.38ft | 2,093 cu ft | 61,078 lbs | 10,584 lbs |
| 40ft Reefer High Cube Container | 37.93ft x 7.51ft x 8.37ft | 2,380 cu ft | 65,080 lbs | 9,880 lbs |
| Double Door Containers | ||||
| 20ft Double Door Container | 11.48ft x 7.71ft x 7.84ft | 1,172 cu ft | 55,126 lbs | 5,071 lbs |
| 40ft Double Door Container | 39.47ft x 7.87ft x 7.84ft | 2,389 cu ft | 61,200 lbs | 8,268 lbs |
| 40ft Double Door High Cube Container | 39.47ft x 7.68ft x 8.83ft | 2,694 cu ft | 63,052 lbs | 11,470 lbs |
| Open Top Containers | ||||
| 20ft Open Top Container | 19.32ft x 7.71ft x 7.71ft | 1,155 cu ft | 62,214 lbs | 5,982 lbs |
| 40ft Open Top Container | 39.47ft x 7.87ft x 7.68ft | 2,356 cu ft | 58,422 lbs | 8,774 lbs |
| 40ft Open Top High Cube Container | 39.47ft x 7.71ft x 8.86ft | 2,645 cu ft | 62,281 lbs | 9,370 lbs |
| Pallet Wide Containers | ||||
| 20ft Pallet Wide Container | 19.32ft x 8.01ft x 7.84ft | 1,213 cu ft | 61,905 lbs | 5,291 lbs |
| 40ft Pallet Wide Container | 39.47ft x 8.01ft x 7.81ft | 2,467 cu ft | 58,819 lbs | 8,377 lbs |
| 40ft Pallet Wide High Cube Container | 44.46ft x 7.91ft x 8.83ft | 3,044 cu ft | 65,521 lbs | 9,435 lbs |
| Flat Rack Containers | ||||
| 20ft Flat Rack Container | 19.49ft x 7.71ft x 7.71ft | 1,154 cu ft | 66,458 lbs | 5,203 lbs |
| 40ft Flat Rack Container | 39.80ft x 7.87ft x 7.02ft | 2,195 cu ft | 88,200 lbs | 11,025 lbs |
| Side Door Containers | ||||
| 20ft Side Door Container | 19.36ft x 7.71ft x 7.68ft | 1,165 cu ft | 61,244 lbs | 5,950 lbs |
| 40ft Side Door Container | 39.47ft x 7.48ft x 7.51ft | 2,2306 cu ft | 60,180 lbs | 10,362 lbs |
| 40ft Side Door High Cube Container | 39.47ft x 7.68ft x 8.83ft | 2,694 cu ft | 63,052 lbs | 11,470 lbs |
| Hard Top Containers | ||||
| 20ft Hard Top Container | 19.32ft x 7.71ft x 7.71ft | 1,155 cu ft | 62,214 lbs | 5,982 lbs |
| 40ft Hard Top Container | 39.47ft x 7.87ft x 7.68ft | 2,356 cu ft | 58,422 lbs | 8,774 lbs |
| 40ft Hard Top High Cube Container | 39.47ft x 7.87ft x 8.83ft | 2,694 cu ft | 63,052 lbs | 11,470 lbs |
| Tank Containers | ||||
| 20ft Tank Container | 19.85ft x 8.00ft x 8.50ft | 26,000 ltrs | 7041.56 lbs | 8950,76 lbs |
| Insulated Containers | ||||
| 20ft Insulated Container | 18.86ft x 7.41ft x 6.92ft | 970 cu ft | 47,070 lbs | 5,840 lbs |
| 40ft Insulated Container | 5.12ft x 7.48ft x 7.38ft | 2,090 cu ft | 61,070 lbs | 10,580 lbs |
| Half Height Containers | ||||
| 20ft Half Height Container | 19.29ft x 7.28ft x 3.08ft | 432 cu ft | 22,050 lbs | 5,240 lbs |
The above dimensions and weights are approximate as they vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Beyond just sizes, the condition and price of shipping containers are key factors to consider. Container xChange offers a range of shipping containers for sale in various conditions, from new to used, and at different price points. This variety ensures you find a container that not only fits your size requirements but also your budget and quality expectations.
Get real-time shipping container prices for free
Accessing container prices is important if you want to make the best container deals. However, prices of containers keep changing and depend on a variety of factors like condition, location, and supply & demand. One easy way to keep track of real-time container prices is through xChange Insights. With Insights, you can:
- Access real-time container prices in 180+ locations globally
- Identify the best cities to buy, sell or lease equipment,
- Make a good deal even in a new market, and
- Maximize your profits
For example, according to Insights, the price of a 20ft cargo-worthy container in Shanghai, China is around US $1,150. However, you can get the same container for just US $990 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This way you’ll end up saving US $160 on your container deal!
And the best part? You can try Insights for free! Click here to see how Insights works and how it can help your business earn more profits.
Find shipping containers from vetted suppliers at top rates on Container xChange
Now that you know how to access real-time container prices and enter new markets, it’s time to see how you can use xChange to find containers of all sizes. Here are some benefits of using xChange over your traditional sourcing methods.
- Get shipping containers of all sizes on xChange – On our platform, you can find 12 types of shipping containers in 2500+ locations globally. We have 100,000+ containers available – making it easier to find the container you’re looking for.
- Find vetted partners and make deals. Risk-free- All companies undergo a mandatory vetting process before becoming members. This means that you can do business with all xChange members. Risk-free. On top of this, all companies also have public profiles. Here, you can see reviews from previous partners.
- Make secure transactions- We also protect the buyers. So, you don’t have to worry about paying and not getting your assets. Our dedicated Customer Service team makes sure that your container operations go smoothly. And that your payments are completely secure through the xChange wallet.
Still, having doubts? Here’s what founder and managing director, Christian Vostoupal, of the international container trader Versibox, says about xChange:
“What I like most is the practicality and speed with which I can consult prices and start a negotiation. The information I get is reliable, easy, and quickly accessible.” on xChange than your current sourcing channel.
Are you ready now to browse through multiple sales offers and choose the best one? Simply click the banner below and find the best container deals in your location.
Shipping container sizes: Common FAQs
What are standard container sizes?
The most popular standard container sizes are 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft high cubes. Apart from these, the 10ft, 10ft HC, and 53ft HC are also favored picks among industry veterans.
What is the size of a 40ft shipping container?
A 40ft box has an internal length of 12.03m / 39.5ft, an internal width of 2.4m / 7.9ft, and an internal height of 2.39m / 7.9ft
What are 20ft shipping container dimensions?
A 20ft box has an internal length of 5.9m / 19.4ft, an internal width of 2.35m / 7.8ft, and an internal height of 2.39m / 7.9ft.
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