When it comes to transporting goods, understanding shipping container dimensions is crucial. Whether you are planning to ship personal items, commercial products, or anything in between, knowing the exact sizes of shipping containers can help you make an informed decision. This guide covers everything you need to know about shipping container sizes.

What Are Shipping Container Dimensions?

Shipping container dimensions refer to the external and internal measurements of a container. These dimensions are standardised, ensuring containers can be used worldwide. The dimensions include length, width, height, volume capacity, and more, which are critical for planning storage and transportation needs.

Why Knowing Shipping Container Dimensions is Important

Understanding shipping container dimensions is essential for several reasons:

• Space Optimisation: Knowing the exact dimensions helps in planning the space needed for storage and transportation.
• Cost Efficiency: Accurate size estimation can prevent overpaying for shipping and ensure you get the best value for your money.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to standardised container dimensions ensures compliance with international shipping regulations.

Standard Shipping Container Sizes

There are several standard shipping container sizes, but the most commonly used are 20- and 40-foot containers. These containers are versatile and widely available, making them the go-to choice for various shipping and storage needs.

20-Shipping Container Dimensions

The 20-foot shipping container is one of the most popular sizes due to its compactness and versatility. Here are the standard dimensions for a 20-foot container:

External Dimensions:

• Length: 20 feet (6.06 metres)
• Width: 8 ft (2.44 m)
• Height: 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m)

Internal Dimensions:

• Length: 19 ft 4 in (5.9 m)
• Width: 7 ft 9 in (2.35 m)
• Height: 7 ft 10 in (2.39 m)

Volume Capacity: Approximately 1,169 cubic feet (33.1 cubic metres)

Tare Weight: Around 5,071 lbs (2,300 kg)

Maximum Gross Weight: 52,910 lbs (24,000 kg)

40-Shipping Container Dimensions

For larger shipments or storage needs, the 40-shipping container is an excellent choice. Here are the standard dimensions for a 40-container:

External Dimensions:

• Length: 40 ft (12.19 m)
• Width: 8 ft (2.44 m)
• Height: 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m)

Internal Dimensions:

• Length: 39 ft 5 in (12.03 m)
• Width: 7 ft 9 in (2.35 m)
• Height: 7 ft 10 in (2.39 m)

Volume Capacity: Approximately 2,385 cubic feet (67.5 cubic metres)

Tare Weight: Around 8,268 lbs (3,750 kg)

Maximum Gross Weight: 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg)

Specialised Shipping Container Sizes and Dimensions

While 20- and 40-foot containers are the most common, there are other specialised containers designed for specific purposes, including high-cube containers, refrigerated containers, and open-top containers. Each type has unique dimensions to cater to different cargo requirements.

High Cube Shipping Container 

High-cube containers are similar to standard containers but offer an additional foot of height. This extra space is ideal for bulky items or cargo that requires more headroom.

Refrigerated Shipping Container 

Refrigerated containers, also known as reefers, maintain a controlled temperature for perishable goods. Their dimensions are similar to standard containers but include insulation and refrigeration units.

Table of Shipping Container Sizes and Dimensions

Container Type	Exterior Length	Exterior Width	Exterior Height	Interior Length	Interior Width	Interior Height	Door Width	Door Height	Cubic Capacity	Max Gross Weight	Tare Weight
8ft Container	244 cm	226 cm	226 cm	229 cm	211 cm	206 cm	210 cm	195 cm	9 95m³	6,000kg	950kg
10ft Container	299 cm	244 cm	259 cm	284 cm	235 cm	239 cm	234 cm	228 cm	15 95 m³	10,000kg	1,000kg
20-Standard Container	609.6 cm	243.84 cm	259.08 cm	589.74 cm	234.8 cm	238.44 cm	233.68 cm	227.2 cm	33.2 m³	30,480kg	2,000kg
40-Standard Container	1219.2 cm	243.84 cm	259.08 cm	1203.1 cm	234.8 cm	238.44 cm	233.68 cm	227.2 cm	67.6 m³	30,480kg	3,470kg
40-High Cube Container	1219.2 cm	243.84 cm	289.56 cm	1203.1 cm	234.8 cm	269.24 cm	233.68 cm	257.7 cm	76.4 m³	30,480kg	3,660kg
20-Refrigerated Container	605.79 cm	243.84 cm	259.08 cm	545.5 cm	229 cm	226.2 cm	229 cm	222.7 cm	28.3 m³	27,400 kg	3,080 kg
40-Refrigerated Container	1219.2 cm	243.84 cm	259.08 cm	1155.4 cm	228.6 cm	221.6 cm	229 cm	222.7 cm	59.3 m³	27,700 kg	4,800 kg
40-foot-high High refrigerator container	1219.2 cm	243.84 cm	289.56 cm	1158.5 cm	229 cm	252.7 cm	229 cm	252.7 cm	67.3 m³	29,520 kg	4,480 kg
20ft Tunnel	606 cm	244 cm	260 cm	584 cm	235 cm	239 cm	234 cm	228 cm	32 8 m³	30,480kg	2,180kg