Dimensions of Shipping Containers Explained

When looking for shipping containers, it’s critical to select the right one for your project, so you should consider the dimensions of shipping containers!

Nowadays, shipping containers are used for much more than just transporting commercial cargo from one location to another. They’re becoming increasingly popular because of their versatility and durability, allowing them to be used for a variety of purposes, including transportation, storage, housing, offices, shops, restrooms, pools, and even more.

Purchasing a container is advantageous and preferable for a variety of solutions due to its ability to be customized. Furthermore, these enormous metal boxes are extremely durable because they’re designed to withstand harsh natural conditions such as extreme weather and earthquakes.

These adaptable structures come in a variety of dimensions and the best size for a container will depend on its intended use. Finding the appropriate size for your intended use is rather simple because most shipping containers have standardized dimensions.

ISO shipping containers typically have dimensions of 8ft wide and 8.5ft high. The most common lengths are 20 and 40ft. There are also high-cube containers on sale that are 9.5ft tall.

Now let’s discuss the details:

Standard Size Shipping Containers

20′ & 40′ Shipping Containers

These are the most commonly used containers on the market. 20 and 40ft shipping containers can meet many of your company’s needs, including storage and transportation.

In addition to transportation, you can use your 20 and 40ft shipping containers for a variety of purposes, such as providing air-conditioned, comfortable offices for your employees on the job site.

These containers can also be transformed into comfortable and stylish living spaces or impressive venues such as coffee shops, ice cream vendors, and alternative restaurants.

The dimensions for 20ft shipping containers are 20′ (6.58m) in length, 8′ (2.44m) in width, and 8′ 6” (2.62m) in height.

And their 40ft versions measure 40′ (12.19m) in length, 8′ (2.44m) in width, and 8′ 6” (2.62m) in height.

20′ & 40′ HC (High Cube) Shipping Containers

Standard shipping containers and HC containers are identical except for one foot in height. As a result, 20ft high cube shipping containers measure 20′ (6.58m) in length, 8′ (2.44m) in width, and 9′ 6″ (3.62m) in height.

This also means that the dimensions of 40ft high cube shipping containers are 40′ (12.19m) in length, 8′ (2.44m) in width, and 9′ 6” (3.62m) in height.

20′ & 40′ Open Side Shipping Containers

A standard shipping container can be converted into an open-sided shipping container by replacing a side panel with hinged, bi-fold doors. The locking bars on these doors enable them to be opened and closed as needed.

  • The internal and external dimensions of 20ft open shipping containers differ:
  • The exterior measures 20′ feet long, 8′ feet wide, and 8′ 6″ feet tall.
  • The interior measures 19′ in length, 7′ 8″ in width, and 7′ 10″ in height.
  • The same applies to 40ft shipping containers as well:
  • The exterior dimensions are 40′ feet in length, 8′ feet in width, and 8′ 6″ feet in height.
  • Consequently, the interior dimensions are 39′ feet long, 7′ 8″ feet wide, and 7′ 10″ feet tall.

20′ Double-Door Shipping Containers

The double-door container, also known as the Tunnel container, has two doors on each end wall. This tunnel-shaped container makes cargo loading and unloading easier by allowing access from both ends. Double-door shipping containers provide better access and organization because they have two access points to the unit.

  • The ISO-regulated dimensions of 20 ft double-door containers are 8′ 6″ in height.
  • The exterior measurements are 20′ (6.58 m) long, 8′ (2.44 m) wide, and 8′ 6” (2.62 m) tall.
  • The interior is 19′ (5.80 m) long, 7′ 8” (2.34 m) wide, and 7′ 10” (2.38 m) tall.

20′ & 40′ HC shipping containers with doors on both ends

HC shipping containers with double doors on both ends are ideal for roll-on/roll-off operations and large-scale storage. They can serve as a tunnel, bridge, walk-through, or drive-through. Additionally, their height makes them ideal for on-site offices, lodging, trade show booths, and retail stores.

The dimensions of a 20ft HC shipping container with double doors on both ends are 20′ (6.58 m), 8′ (2.44 m), and 9′ 6” (3.62 m).

And their 40ft counterparts are 40′ (12.19 m) long, 8′ (2.44 m) wide, and 9′ 6” (3.62 m) tall.

Custom Sized Shipping Containers

8′ Shipping Containers

8 ft storage container units are an excellent choice if you need a storage unit that will take up less space while keeping your equipment or merchandise safe and dry.

Note that 8-ft shipping containers are custom-made by bending 20- or 40ft shipping containers; they’re not labeled as standard-size containers.

The dimensions for 8ft shipping containers are 8′ (2.44m) in length, 8′ (2.44m) in width and 8′ 6” (2.62m) in height.

How to Determine Your Project’s Ideal Container Size

Starting a project with a shipping container opens a world of possibilities for creative architecture, transportation, or storage ideas, and knowing about the dimensions of shipping containers is essential for this process.

It’s also important to become familiar with common terminology, specialized types, and standard container sizes before beginning the selection process. You can use this information to communicate with container providers more effectively and make well-informed decisions.

The first step is to identify the precise requirements for your project. Here are a few typical applications and the related factors to consider:

  • Storage: Determine how much stuff you’ll need to store, considering any potential future storage requirements. Select a container size that will allow your belongings to fit in it both comfortably and effectively.
  • Shipping: Consider the items’ weight, dimensions, and any applicable regulations when shipping cargo. Select a container that will hold your belongings safely and securely without going over weight limits or breaking any shipping regulations.
  • Conversion: Consider the intended use and ideal layout when converting a container into a workspace, such as an office, a workshop, or a living area. Consider any building codes and zoning requirements, as well as the amount of space needed for furniture, equipment, and other necessities.

For simple transport or storage, a typical 20-foot container may be adequate. They work great for shipping container garages, pop-up shops, cabins, and storage sheds.

On the other hand, a 40-foot container offers twice the space, so it’s appropriate for larger projects like building a container home, office, or roomy art studio.

Additionally, high-cube containers are ideal for projects that require extra height. Because they provide headroom or loft space, they’re popular for use in carports, commercial spaces, and tiny homes.

Find High-Quality Containers in CMG Containers

If you’re in the market for shipping containers to use as needed, view the shipping container catalog from CMG Containers to find one that satisfies all your requirements for your project. CMG Containers offers high-quality, brand-new shipping containers for your business’s transportation, storage, and other requirements.

See more: Box Brother 3 Ply box Brown Corrugated Packing box Size 

The company has 20 years of experience serving clients in a variety of industries. The company’s cost-effective and innovative solutions continue to meet customer demand, motivating them to deliver the best products to market. For high-quality and budget-friendly shipping containers, contact CMG Containers today!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top