Comprehensive guide to shipping container sizes and dimensions

Shipping containers have revolutionized the world of logistics and storage. These versatile and robust containers are used for shipping goods across continents, storing equipment on construction sites, and even creating mobile offices or homes. When it comes to choosing the right shipping container, understanding sizes and dimensions is crucial.

Choosing the Right Container Starts with Size

The right container depends on what you are storing, how much space you need, whether height matters, and whether the container will be used for storage, shipping, or modification.

1 Standard Shipping Containers

Standard shipping containers are the most common type and come in two main sizes: 20-foot containers and 40-foot containers. These are popular for general storage, transportation, equipment storage, moving, and commercial use.

20-foot shipping container side measurement

20-Foot Container

The 20-foot shipping container is an industry standard and offers practical storage capacity for small to medium-sized needs.

Length Approx. 20 ft Width Approx. 8 ft Height Approx. 8.5 ft Common Uses Moves, tools, inventory

40-Foot Container

The 40-foot shipping container is double the length of the 20-foot container and provides significantly more storage space.

Length Approx. 40 ft Width Approx. 8 ft Height Approx. 8.5 ft Common Uses Large storage, offices

2 High Cube Shipping Containers

High cube shipping containers are similar to standard containers but offer extra vertical space. They are ideal for transporting or storing goods that require more height, or for modification projects where extra headroom makes the space feel more comfortable.

40-foot high cube shipping container measurement

20-Foot High Cube Container

The 20-foot high cube container has the same length and width as a standard 20-foot container but adds extra height for taller items.

Length Approx. 20 ft Width Approx. 8 ft Height Approx. 9.5 ft Best For Tall items, extra height

40-Foot High Cube Container

The 40-foot high cube container offers more length and more height, making it a strong choice for bulky cargo, oversized items, and modification projects.

Length Approx. 40 ft Width Approx. 8 ft Height Approx. 9.5 ft Best For Bulky cargo, modifications

3 Specialized Shipping Containers

Apart from standard and high cube containers, there are specialized containers designed for specific purposes. These are useful when your cargo or project requires temperature control, oversized loading, or easier access.

Reefer Containers: Temperature-Controlled Storage

Reefer containers, also called refrigerated containers, are equipped with cooling systems. These containers maintain temperature-controlled environments, making them ideal for perishable goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, or flowers.

Open Top Containers: Easy Top Loading

Open top containers feature a removable top, allowing for easier loading and unloading from above. They are commonly used for heavy machinery or oversized cargo that cannot fit through standard container doors.

Flat Rack Containers: Heavy and Oversized Cargo

Flat rack containers are designed without standard side walls, allowing cargo to be loaded from the sides or top. They are often used for boats, vehicles, large machinery, and other oversized loads.

4 Choosing the Right Size

Choosing the right shipping container size and dimensions is essential for successful transportation, storage, or modification projects. Whether you need standard containers for everyday storage, high cube containers for extra vertical space, or specialized containers for unique requirements, understanding your options helps you make a better decision.


Consider factors such as cargo size, weight, access needs, available space, transportation method, and whether the container will be used temporarily or long term.

Final Thoughts

At Storage Containers To Go, we offer a wide range of shipping containers to meet different storage, transportation, and project needs. Whether you need a 20-foot container, a 40-foot container, a high cube option, or a specialized solution, choosing the correct size can make your project easier, safer, and more efficient.

Need Help Choosing the Right Container?

Storage Containers To Go can help you select the right container size for storage, shipping, construction, business inventory, moving, modifications, or long-term use.

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