Sizes side by side
| Type | External length | External width | External height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft | 10 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft 6 in |
| 20ft Standard | 20 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft 6 in |
| 40ft Standard | 40 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft 6 in |
| 40ft High Cube | 40 ft | 8 ft | 9 ft 6 in |
Nominal ISO external sizes. Internal dimensions, door openings, tare and payload vary by manufacturer and build year, so we publish them per unit rather than as a single chart. If a dimension is critical, ask us to measure the unit.
Choosing a length
- 8ft & 10ft — tight yards, tool stores, sites a 20ft cannot reach.
- 20ft — the default. Fits most driveways and job sites and is the easiest size to deliver.
- 40ft — double the floor area of a 20ft for much less than double the price. Needs a long, straight approach for delivery.
Standard vs High Cube
A high cube is one foot taller: 9 ft 6 in outside instead of 8 ft 6 in. Footprint is identical. Choose it for tall racking, vehicles and machinery, or any conversion where ceiling height matters after insulation and lining.
Container anatomy
A container carries its load through the corner posts and corner castings; the corrugated panels brace the frame. That is why ground support belongs under the four corners, and why cutting large openings calls for reinforcement.
Door openings
Standard containers have double doors at one end. The clear opening is smaller than the external size because of the door frame and header — check the “Door opening” row on the listing before planning to drive equipment in. For side loading, look at open side units; for crane loading, open top.
Open side & reefer
Open-side containers add full-length doors on one side, so pallets and long items load by forklift without working from the end.
Refrigerated containers circulate air from the unit, under the cargo and back along the ceiling. Keep the floor channels clear and stack below the load line. Power requirements are listed on each reefer unit — confirm your supply before ordering.
Space on site
Allow the container footprint plus room to swing the doors fully open (each leaf is about 4 ft) and to walk around the unit. Delivery needs considerably more room than the container itself — see the delivery & placement guide.