What size do shipping containers come in? The standard lengths are 20 ft and 40 ft, with a 40 ft high cube that stands 9.5 ft tall, and 10 ft and 45 ft units also exist. A 20 ft container holds about 1,170 cubic feet, and a 40 ft holds about 2,390. Queen Container sells all of these, and this guide helps you choose.
Standard sizes at a glance
| Size | Height | Approx. volume | Empty weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ft | 8.5 ft | Compact | Light |
| 20 ft | 8.5 ft | About 1,170 cu ft | About 5,000 lb |
| 40 ft | 8.5 ft | About 2,390 cu ft | About 8,000 lb |
| 40 ft high cube | 9.5 ft | About 2,700 cu ft | Slightly heavier |
| 45 ft | 9.5 ft | Larger still | Heavier |
All of these are about 8 ft wide on the outside. Interior dimensions are a little smaller because of the wall thickness and corrugated steel.
What size do shipping containers come in for small projects?
Small spaces work well with a 10 ft or even 8 ft unit. These are popular for tool storage, small shops and tight yards where a longer truck cannot turn. Our 10 ft storage container is a good example of a compact option. They cost less to ship, but you get less space per dollar than with larger boxes.
The 20 ft: the all-purpose choice
A 20 ft container is the most common size because it is easy to move and fits many properties. It works for household storage, job-site tools and small conversions. For more detail, read our complete guide to the 20 ft shipping container.
The 40 ft and 40 ft high cube
If you need serious room, step up to a 40 ft. It suits equipment, inventory, long workshops and many container homes. The high cube adds about a foot of height, which helps when you plan to insulate the ceiling or stack tall items. Most people converting a container into living space prefer the extra headroom. See the 40 ft high cube container for a typical example.
Keep in mind that interior width is roughly 7.8 ft and the door opening is slightly narrower and shorter than the box, so measure large equipment before you buy.
When a 45 ft makes sense
The 45 ft option is less common, but it is useful for long layouts or large items. It also needs more space to deliver and place, so confirm access before ordering.
Choosing the right size
So, what size do shipping containers come in that suits you? Start with the biggest item you plan to store or the layout you want to build, then work backward. A container that is too small cannot be stretched later, while one that is too large can strain your budget and your lot. Many buyers settle on a 20 ft for storage and a 40 ft for anything they plan to live or work in.
- Measure your space: include room for the truck to approach and the doors to swing open.
- Think about growth: many buyers wish they had gone one size larger.
- Consider weight: the ground must support the box and its contents.
- Check local rules: some areas limit container size or placement.
Price rises with size. Typically, used 20 ft containers run roughly $1,500 to $4,000 and used 40 ft containers roughly $2,500 to $5,500, though condition and location change the figure. Delivery adds to the total.
Next steps
Decide what will go inside, add a little extra room, and match that to a size from the table. Then browse the shipping containers category to compare types. For a price based on your size and location, contact us for a quote, or explore our full selection of shipping containers for sale.
