Shipping Container Sizes & Types
Every shipping container size and type in one place. Whether you're buying, renting, or planning a build, this guide covers the standard dimensions and the specialty options so you can match the right container to the job — then get a guaranteed lowest price from the world's largest container marketplace.
Shipping container sizes
All standard containers are 8 feet wide; length and height are what change. Standard height is 8'6", and a high cube adds a foot at 9'6".
| Size | External (L × W × H) | Interior capacity | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft | 10' × 8' × 8'6" | ~560 cu ft | tight lots, small or backyard storage |
| 20ft | 20' × 8' × 8'6" | ~1,170 cu ft | the workhorse — storage, moving, jobsites |
| 40ft | 40' × 8' × 8'6" | ~2,390 cu ft | the most space per dollar |
| 20ft High Cube | 20' × 8' × 9'6" | ~1,320 cu ft | extra headroom in a short footprint |
| 40ft High Cube | 40' × 8' × 9'6" | ~2,690 cu ft | tall loads, pallet racking, conversions |
| 45ft High Cube | 45' × 8' × 9'6" | ~3,040 cu ft | maximum length and volume |
Shipping container types
| Type | What it is | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (dry) | Enclosed steel box with cargo doors on one end | general cargo and storage |
| High Cube | A foot taller (9'6") than a standard container | tall items and container builds |
| Double-Door | Cargo doors on both ends (tunnel) | drive-through access, long loads |
| Open-Side | Doors along the full length of one side | wide access, retail, jobsite tools |
| Refrigerated (Reefer) | Insulated box with a powered cooling unit | cold or frozen storage, food and pharma |
| Insulated | Lined, insulated walls with no power | temperature buffering without active cooling |
| Flat Rack | Collapsible ends, no roof or sidewalls | oversized and heavy cargo |
| Open Top | Removable tarp roof for top-loading | tall or bulky cargo loaded by crane |
New or used — every size and type
Each size and type comes new (one-trip, a near-pristine shell ideal for visible or modified builds) or used (cargo-worthy and wind-and-watertight grades — the most affordable way to own one for storage).
Got your size and type? Tell us where it's going and you'll get a guaranteed lowest price, Marketplace Protection, and tilt-bed delivery in 3–7 business days — buy, rent, or rent-to-own.
Shipping Container Sizes & Types FAQs
- How do I get started with shipping container sizes & types?
- Reach out for a free, no-obligation quote online or by phone and we'll take it from there.
- What does shipping container sizes & types involve?
- We assess your needs, recommend the right approach, and handle shipping container sizes & types from start to finish — explained in plain terms before anything begins.
- How much does shipping container sizes & types cost?
- Pricing depends on your situation. Shipping Container World gives you a clear, no-obligation quote up front, with no hidden fees.
- How soon can you help?
- Often the same or next day. Accept your quote and we'll schedule shipping container sizes & types at a time that works for you.