Maritime containers play a pivotal role in transporting and storing goods worldwide. While many people are familiar with the standard 40-foot container, it’s important to understand that there’s a variety of types and sizes available. In this article, we’ll explore container dimensions, from standard to high cube and open-top containers, helping you make informed decisions about the best container type for your needs.
Types of Containers
Beyond the standard 40-foot container, there are other options like refrigerated, open-top, platform, and tank containers. Each of these types caters to specific transportation and storage requirements. Refrigerated containers maintain controlled temperatures for sensitive goods, while open-top containers provide flexibility for larger or irregularly shaped cargo. Platform containers are ideal for heavy or bulky loads, and tank containers are used for liquids or chemicals.
Container Dimensions
External and internal dimensions of containers vary by type. Below are some common dimensions:
- Standard 20-Foot Container:
- External:
- Length: 19’10 1/2″ (6.06 m)
- Width: 8′ (2.44 m)
- Height: 8’6″ (2.59 m)
- Internal:
- Length: 19’4″ (5.89 m)
- Width: 7’8″ (2.34 m)
- Height: 7’10” (2.39 m)
- External:
- Standard 40-Foot Container:
- External:
- Length: 40′ (12.19 m)
- Width: 8′ (2.44 m)
- Height: 8’6″ (2.59 m)
- Internal:
- Length: 39’5″ (12.01 m)
- Width: 7’8″ (2.34 m)
- Height: 7’10” (2.39 m)
- External:
- High Cube 20-Foot Container:
- External:
- Length: 19’10 1/2″ (6.06 m)
- Width: 8′ (2.44 m)
- Height: 9’6″ (2.90 m)
- Internal:
- Length: 19’4″ (5.89 m)
- Width: 7’8″ (2.34 m)
- Height: 8’10” (2.69 m)
- External:
- High Cube 40-Foot Container:
- External:
- Length: 40′ (12.19 m)
- Width: 8′ (2.44 m)
- Height: 9’6″ (2.90 m)
- Internal:
- Length: 39’5″ (12.01 m)
- Width: 7’8″ (2.34 m)
- Height: 8’10” (2.69 m)
- External:
20-Foot Container: The standard 20-foot container is widely used due to its maneuverability and versatility. Its dimensions allow for easy combination and modification to create unique living spaces. Here are the detailed dimensions of the 20-foot container:
- External Dimensions:
- Length: 20′ (6.06 m)
- Width: 8′ (2.44 m)
- Height: 8’6″ (2.60 m)
- Internal Dimensions:
- Length: 19’2″ (5.84 m)
- Width: 7’8″ (2.35 m)
- Height: 7’9″ (2.39 m)
- Floor Area: 144 square feet (13.3 square meters)
- Volume: 1,169 cubic feet (33.1 cubic meters)
Advantages and Disadvantages of 20-Foot Containers: 20-foot containers offer distinct advantages, such as ease of transportation and lower cost compared to 40-foot containers. However, they have space limitations, which might necessitate combining two containers for larger areas. Additionally, while they are cheaper individually, the cost per square foot is higher.
40-Foot Container: 40-foot containers are widely used and offer more interior space. Their dimensions and load capacity make them ideal for larger projects. Here are the detailed dimensions of the 40-foot container:
- External Dimensions:
- Length: 40′ (12.2 m)
- Width: 8′ (2.44 m)
- Height: 8’6″ (2.60 m)
- Internal Dimensions:
- Length: 39’5″ (12.03 m)
- Width: 7’8″ (2.35 m)
- Height: 7’9″ (2.39 m)
- Floor Area: 300 square feet (28 square meters)
- Volume: 2,385 cubic feet (67.5 cubic meters)
Advantages and Disadvantages of 40-Foot Containers: 40-foot containers offer more space and flexibility to divide the interior into multiple rooms. However, they are more expensive to transport and can be challenging to maneuver. Nonetheless, they provide excellent value for larger projects.
Other Types of Containers
There are high cube containers and open-top containers, each with their own advantages and specific uses. High cube containers provide additional internal height, while open-top containers lack a roof and can be utilized for creative projects.
45-Foot Container: The 45-foot container is a less common variant but offers additional space compared to the 40-foot ones. However, the difference in space may not be significant for all projects.
Conclusion: When selecting a container for your project, it’s crucial to consider your space requirements, transportation needs, and budget. Container dimensions vary based on type and intended use. By understanding these dimensions, you can make informed choices that cater to your specific needs.
Remember to check ISO regulations to ensure your container meets safety and quality standards. Regardless of the chosen container type, they provide flexible and cost-effective solutions for a variety of projects.

