Standard Shipping Container Dimensions
If you’re in logistics, construction, retail, or manufacturing, you’ve probably heard about shipping containers. These large metal boxes are the backbone of international trade, responsible for transporting goods all over the world.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about shipping container sizes and dimensions, including their importance in freight transport, common types of containers, and how to choose the right one for your business needs.
At first glance, container dimensions might seem like a lot to take in, but once you break them down, they’re quite straightforward:
- External dimensions – The total size of the container, including its frame (important for transport and placement).
- Internal dimensions – The usable space inside (determines how much cargo will actually fit).
However, dimensions alone don’t tell the full story. Businesses also need to consider door opening sizes (to ensure cargo can fit through), weight limits (to comply with freight regulations), and cargo capacity (to maximise efficiency).
Here’s a table of the most commonly used container sizes, including these key details:
| Size | Length (m) | Width (m) | Height (m) | Door Width (m) | Door Height (m) | Max Gross Weight (kg) | Tare Weight (kg) | Max Payload (kg) | Capacity (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10′ External | 3.10m (10′) | 2.44m (8′) | 2.59m (8’6″) | – | – | 10,160 | 1,300 | 8,860 | – |
| 10′ Internal | 2.98m | 2.35m | 2.38m | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 20′ External | 6.05m (20′) | 2.44m (8′) | 2.59m (8’6″) | 2.338m | 2.292m | 30,480 | 2,120 | 28,360 | 33.15 |
| 20′ Internal | 5.90m | 2.35m | 2.38m | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| 40′ External | 12.19m (40′) | 2.44m (8′) | 2.59m (8’6″) | 2.338m | 2.280m | 30,480 | 3,800 | 26,680 | 67.7 |
| 40′ Internal | 12.01m | 2.35m | 2.38m | – | – | – | – | – | – |
The most common container sizes used in the shipping industry are as follows:
- 8ft Containers – Perfect for small businesses, sports clubs, and tight storage spaces.
- 10ft Containers – Great for small business storage, work sites, or locations with limited space.
- 20ft Containers – The industry go-to for freight and storage, offering a balance of capacity and transport ease.
- 40ft Containers – Ideal for shipping bulk goods or storing large volumes of materials.
