A standard 20ft shipping container measures approximately 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m externally. A 40ft container is 12.19 m long, while a 40ft high cube adds extra height. Compare the sizes below to find a starting point for your cargo or storage project.
20ft vs 40ft vs high cube
All three formats are approximately 2.44 m wide externally. A 40ft container provides roughly twice the length of a 20ft. A high cube keeps the 40ft footprint and adds about 31 cm in external height.
SHIPPING CONTAINER SIZES AT A GLANCE
Compare length and height
↔ 6.06 m long · ↕ 2.59 m high
↔ 12.19 m long · ↕ 2.59 m high
↔ 12.19 m long · ↕ 2.90 m high · extra height highlighted
Illustrative side views. Width is not shown. Dimensions are rounded external measurements.
Shipping container dimensions table
Dimensions are shown in metres. L = length, W = width and H = height. Internal space and door openings matter when deciding whether your cargo will fit.
| Container | External L × W × H |
Internal L × W × H |
Door W × H |
Tare | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft dry | 2.99 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 2.83 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | 2.34 × 2.28 m | 1,300 kg | 15.8 m³ |
| 20ft dry | 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | 2.34 × 2.28 m | 2,180 kg | 33.2 m³ |
| 40ft dry | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | 2.34 × 2.28 m | 3,620 kg | 67.7 m³ |
| 40ft high cube | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.90 m | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.70 m | 2.34 × 2.59 m | 3,820 kg | 76.4 m³ |
| 20ft reefer | 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 5.46 × 2.29 × 2.28 m | 2.29 × 2.29 m | 2,940 kg | 28.5 m³ |
| 40ft HC reefer | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.90 m | 11.59 × 2.29 × 2.56 m | 2.29 × 2.60 m | 4,580 kg | 67.9 m³ |
The high cube and reefer examples use Alconet’s published specifications for a 40ft high cube, 20ft reefer and 40ft high cube reefer. These are examples, rather than specifications for every available unit.
Which container size do you need?
20ft shipping container
A compact option for dry cargo or site storage. Check both the internal dimensions and permitted cargo weight when planning your load.
40ft shipping container
More length and volume for larger loads or storage needs. Allow enough room for delivery, positioning and opening the doors.
40ft high cube
Extra headroom for tall or bulky goods, with the same external length and width as a standard 40ft. Check the door height as well as the interior height.
Reefer container
For temperature-controlled storage or transport. Insulation and refrigeration equipment reduce the internal space. Confirm loading limits and electrical requirements.
Three checks before choosing a container
- Measure your cargo and its packaging. Compare length, width and height with both the interior and door opening. Volume alone does not confirm that an item will fit.
- Check cargo weight. Tare is the empty container weight. Payload is the permitted cargo weight; maximum gross weight includes both. Check the individual unit’s plate and transport limits.
- Check the delivery location. Consider access, ground conditions, unloading equipment and space around the container. Include your delivery address and intended use in your enquiry.
For loads that need access from above or extend beyond a standard box, explore open top containers or flat racks. For liquids, see our tank containers.
Shipping container dimensions FAQ
What are the dimensions of a 20ft shipping container?
A standard 20ft dry container is approximately 6.06 m long, 2.44 m wide and 2.59 m high externally. Its internal space is around 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m. See the table above for indicative door clearance, weight and volume.
What are the dimensions of a 40ft shipping container?
A standard 40ft dry container is approximately 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m externally. A high cube version has an external height of approximately 2.90 m.
How much taller is a high cube container?
A high cube is one foot, or approximately 30.5 cm, taller than a standard-height container. The rounded external heights are 2.90 m and 2.59 m respectively.
Is a 40ft reefer always a high cube?
No. Length and height are separate specifications. The 40ft reefer example in this guide is a high cube. Confirm the height and internal configuration of the unit you are considering.
Can I use the full internal volume for my cargo?
Not necessarily. Packaging, pallet arrangement, door clearance, loading access and permitted weight affect usable space. Reefers also need suitable airflow around the cargo.
Find the right container for your project
Request a quotation or tell us what you need to store or transport. Include the cargo dimensions, approximate weight, delivery location and preferred date.
Unsure about the size? Leave the size unselected and describe your requirements in the message field. For refrigerated storage, mention that you need a reefer and include the required temperature.
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