The shipping industry has greatly benefited from the standardization of containers, which also makes container operations more efficient. There are various sizes and types of containers Tradecorp offers, from dry containers and reefers to open tops, side doors, and flat racks. You can purchase containers in various sizes, including 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft, depending on the type. Each size also comes with high cube dimensions, which are around 30 cm or 12 inches higher than the standard shipping container. Meaning that the additional space can be used to optimize cargo capacity.
However, standard shipping container dimensions are important for several reasons:
Intermodal transportation
Standard dimensions allow for containers to be easily transferred between ships, trains, and trucks, enabling efficient and cost-effective intermodal transportation of goods.
Efficient use of cargo space
Standard dimensions ensure that containers can be stacked and stored in a uniform manner, maximizing the use of cargo space in ships, storage yards, and on trucks.
International Compatibility
The standard dimensions of shipping containers have been adopted globally, allowing for seamless and efficient international trade and transportation of goods.
Cost savings
The use of standardized containers can reduce costs associated with custom-made containers, as well as streamline the shipping and handling process. Overall, standard shipping container dimensions play a crucial role in facilitating the global trade and transportation of goods.
What are the dimensions of a standard shipping container?
The standard dimensions of a shipping container are 20 feet (6 meters) long, 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide, and 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 meters) high. There are also 40ft (12 meters) and 45’ (13.7 meters) long containers with the same width. We will elaborate more about each size in this article so you can decide which size of the dry container will suit you best.
20ft Dry Container Dimensions
The 20ft dry container is popular for shipping dry goods of all kinds. The dimensions of a 20 feet shipping container are 20 feet (6 meters) long, 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide, and 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 meters) high. This container size is often in demand due to its convenient smaller size. It’s relatively easy to load and unload from ships and can be moved without advanced lifting equipment. It’s also great for intermodal transportation (via road, trains, and ships).
*Measurement or value may vary
| External dimensions | L 20’ x W 8’ x H 8’ 6” | L 6 m x W 2.4 m x H 2.59 m |
| Volume | 1,171 cu ft | 33.2 m³ |
| Tare weight | 4,585 lbs | 2,080 kgs |
| Max payload | 62,615 lbs | 28,400 kgs |
| Max cargo | 67,200 lbs | 30,480 kgs |
40ft Dry Container Dimensions
A 40 feet shipping container is a standard sea container used for transporting goods by sea, road, or rail. The dimensions of a 40-foot shipping container are 40 feet (12 meters) long, 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide, and 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 meters) high.
40’ shipping containers are commonly used for shipping goods, including electronics, machinery, vehicles, and other bulky items. They can also be used for storage, converted into living spaces, or used as modular building components in construction projects.
*Measurement or value may vary
| External dimensions | L 40’ x W 8’ x H 8’ 6” | L 12 m x W 2.4 m x H 2.59 m |
| Volume | 2,694 cu ft | 76.3 m³ |
| Tare weight | 7,760 lbs | 3,520 kgs |
| Max payload | 59,440 lbs | 26,960 kgs |
| Max cargo | 67,200 lbs | 30,480 kgs |
45ft HC Dry Container Dimensions
45’ shipping containers are primarily used for long-distance shipping of goods that cannot be accommodated in a standard 40 feet container. The dimensions of a 45 feet shipping container are 45 feet (13.72 meters) long, 8 feet (2.44 meters) wide, and 9 feet 6 inches (2.9 meters) high. These containers are not as widely used as 20ft and 40ft containers, but they offer increased storage capacity for certain types of cargo. The extra spaces that they provide are suitable for items such as oversized machinery, vehicles, and other bulky items.
| External dimensions | L 45’ x W 8’ x H 9’ 6’ | L 13.7 m x W 2.4 m x H 2.89 m |
| Volume | 3,040 cu ft | 86.0 m³ |
| Tare weight | 10,470 lbs | 4,750 kgs |
| Max payload | 61,180 lbs | 27,750 kgs |
| Max cargo | 71,650 lbs | 32,500 kgs |
*Measurement or value may vary
Numerous Other Uses of Standard Shipping Containers:
Whether they are new or used, standard shipping containers have many uses, which include but are not limited to
Shipping
The container can be loaded onto a shipping vessel to transport goods across oceans and continents.
Storage
The container can be used as a storage unit that can be secured to keep household goods, construction materials, and other items.
Temporary Construction
The container can be used as a building component for creating structures such as homes, offices, and shops.
Retail space
The container can be converted into a pop-up shop, food truck, or another type of retail space. Tradecorp offers a wide range of customization options for shipping containers. We will help you find the perfect container solution for your business or project needs. Find a variety of types and sizes of shipping containers, from standard ones to tanks, and modifiable ones. We will have them ready for you at a reasonable price. Fill out the contact form on our page and we will respond to your inquiry promptly.