People who ask “what is size of shipping container” usually want the standard answer, and it is simple. The most common sizes are 20 ft and 40 ft long, both 8 ft wide, and either 8.5 ft tall (standard) or 9.5 ft tall (high cube). Queen Container sells these and a few other sizes, so here is a plain guide to what each one offers.
What Is Size of Shipping Container by Length?
Containers are built to international standards so they stack on ships, trains and trucks. That is why the sizes are so consistent. The table shows the main options with approximate figures.
| Size | Outside dimensions | Approx. volume | Empty weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ft | 10 x 8 x 8.5 ft | about 570 cu ft | varies |
| 20 ft | 20 x 8 x 8.5 ft | about 1,170 cu ft | about 5,000 lb |
| 40 ft | 40 x 8 x 8.5 ft | about 2,390 cu ft | about 8,000 lb |
| 40 ft high cube | 40 x 8 x 9.5 ft | about 2,700 cu ft | slightly more than a standard 40 ft |
A 45 ft container also exists, mainly as a high cube, and 6 ft and 8 ft models are made for small storage jobs. Interior space is a little smaller than the outside numbers, because the walls and floor take up room.
Which Size Fits Your Project?
10 ft containers
These are handy for small yards, garden storage and tight sites where a longer truck cannot turn. You can browse our 10 ft storage container for a compact option.
20 ft containers
The 20 ft is the most popular size for general storage, job-site lockers and small conversions. It offers around 160 square feet of floor space and is easy to place. Our complete 20 ft guide covers the details, and the 20 ft double door container is one of the models we offer.
40 ft containers
Choose a 40 ft when you need one long space for equipment, inventory or a larger conversion. It provides about 320 square feet of floor area and costs less per square foot than two separate 20 ft units. The high cube version adds headroom, which is helpful for shelving, insulation and living spaces.
Doors, Openings and Interior Clearance
The door opening is narrower than the box itself, so measure carefully if you plan to store furniture, machinery or pallets. A standard door opening is a little under 8 ft wide and around 7.5 ft tall on a regular container, and a bit taller on a high cube. If you need wider access, side-opening and double-door models exist.
Remember that insulation, framing and flooring reduce the interior size further. A container converted into a room can lose several inches on every wall, so add margin when planning furniture or equipment layouts.
Weight, Delivery and Space Needs
Size affects delivery as well as capacity. A 40 ft container needs a longer approach and more turning room than a 20 ft. Delivery commonly costs about $2 to $6 per loaded mile, with local drops often between $150 and $500, and longer trips of $1,000 or more. Typical used prices run about $1,500 to $4,000 for a 20 ft and $2,500 to $5,500 for a 40 ft, depending on grade and location.
Before ordering, measure the spot where the container will sit and the path the truck must travel. Leave extra room in front of the doors so they can open fully.
Next Steps
Now that you know the answer to what is size of shipping container for your needs, choose the length and height that fit your space and your budget. Start with our shipping container category, or visit the main page for shipping containers for sale. If you are not sure which size to pick, contact us and tell us what you plan to store or build. We will quote based on size, condition and delivery location.
