While shipping containers are usually associated with steel boxes to deliver cargo, their conversion potential into something like a shipping container garage proves these containers’ endless uses for non-shipment purposes.
Naturally, we want to know how many vehicles fit inside a shipping container garage. Knowing how many can help you choose the container size you’ll need to make your personal shipping container garage.
Benefits of Converting Shipping Containers into Garages
Before getting into the specifics, let’s look at why you might consider converting a shipping container into a garage.
Durability and Security
One of the biggest advantages of using a shipping container as a garage is its durability and security.
Since shipping containers are steel boxes, they are built to be weather-resistant and secure enough to keep your belongings safe while being transported worldwide.
When the container becomes a garage, these features are a huge bonus. Whether you’re storing expensive cars, motorcycles, or tools, your vehicles are safe from theft, weather damage, and general wear and tear.
Cost-Effectiveness
Building a traditional garage can be expensive, especially if you factor in permit costs, materials, and labor.
On the other hand, a shipping container garage can be an affordable alternative. A new or used shipping container is usually much cheaper than constructing a permanent garage, and expenses for converting it into a functional space are generally lower too.
Even with the added insulation, lighting, ventilation, and door installation costs, the garage’s total cost will likely still be cheaper than what you would pay for a standard garage.
Flexibility and Customization
Shipping containers are highly customizable. You can modify them to suit your needs, like adding windows, doors, or even a skylight for natural light.
For a garage, this customization might include installing overhead lighting, shelving for tools, workbenches, or additional storage space.
You could even add insulation or ventilation to make the garage more comfortable if you’re storing temperature-sensitive items like a classic car.
Space Efficiency
Shipping containers are compact yet surprisingly spacious when used wisely.
Their boxy shape can fit into tight spaces that might not accommodate a full-sized garage. If you have a small lot or limited outdoor space, a container garage can be a great way to add storage without taking up too much room.
Additionally, because containers are modular, you can place or stack them side by side if you need even more space.
Also Read: Shipping Container Storage Units: How to Maintain Them
How Many Vehicles Fit in a Container Garage?
The number of vehicles that can fit into a shipping container depends largely on the container’s size and the vehicle types you plan on storing.
Standard shipping containers come in several lengths, with 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot being the most common. Additionally, the vehicle type also plays a big role in determining how many can fit inside.
20′ Container Garage
The 20-foot shipping container is the smallest standard size, measuring 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.6 feet tall. While compact, it’s a practical option for those with limited space who only need to store one or two vehicles.
One Small Car
If you have a compact or mid-sized car (such as a Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, or a small sedan), it will fit easily inside a 20-foot container.
There’s enough space for the car, and you’ll still have room to move around the vehicle to some extent.
Motorcycles
A 20-foot container is perfect for storing motorcycles. You can fit up to 3 motorcycles, depending on how they’re parked.
For example, if you park the bikes in a staggered pattern, you can maximize space and ensure they’re secure.
One Large Vehicle
If you have a larger vehicle such as an SUV or a full-size pickup truck, it’s possible to park one inside a 20-foot container.
However, it will be a tight fit, and your room may limit how you move your vehicle. Larger trucks or SUVs (like a Ford F-150 or Toyota Tundra) might require more room, so if you own a full-size truck, you’ll need to plan carefully.
40′ Container Garage
The 40-foot shipping container is the most popular size for those looking for a bit more space.
At 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.6 feet tall, this container is ideal for a larger collection of vehicles or for those who need some extra space for storage alongside their cars.
Two Compact Cars
With a 40-foot container garage, you can fit two compact-sized cars inside it.
You can park them side by side with enough room to open doors and walk around the vehicles.
This makes the 40-foot container ideal for people who own more than one car but don’t want a huge garage taking up their entire yard.
One Large Vehicle
A 40-foot container is large enough to comfortably fit something like a mid-sized SUV.
Even a truck like a Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado will fit with room to spare.
You may even have space left over for a workbench or shelving unit if you plan on storing tools or other items.
Three Motorcycles
If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you can comfortably store three motorcycles in a 40-foot container.
With a bit of careful arrangement, you can even fit four smaller bikes inside, leaving room for some basic equipment or extra gear.
45′ Container Garage
The 45-foot shipping container is the largest of the standard sizes, offering even more space than the 40-foot container. It’s typically 45 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 9.6 feet tall, which means it has not only extra length but also added height, making it suitable for taller vehicles or additional storage.
Two To Three Vehicles
A 45-foot container can easily store two vehicles. If your vehicles are smaller, you may be able to fit three. You could also mix vehicle sizes, parking one large vehicle and two smaller ones side by side.
Four Motorcycles
The added space of the 45-foot container allows you to store up to four motorcycles. With proper arrangement, this can be a great solution for motorcycle clubs or enthusiasts who need a dedicated space to store their bikes and related gear.
Combination Of Vehicles And Extra Storage
If you have multiple vehicles but also need to store things like bicycles, tools, or lawn equipment, the 45-foot container is an excellent choice. The added space means you can store your vehicles alongside all your other stuff without feeling cramped.
Also Read: Shipping Container Shop Ideas for New Businesses and Startups
Conclusion
By knowing the number of vehicles that fit inside each different container garage size, you can find the container type suitable for your exact needs. Do you want to experience how a container can be a surprisingly perfect place to park your vehicle? Contact Tradecorp today via our quote form to find a convertible container for building your garage! With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Tradecorp provides the best purpose-built containers to help clients meet their business needs.
