The different sizes of shipping containers
There are several types of sea container, each with different dimensions to meet different transport needs. Dimensions are generally expressed in feet, and the most commonly used containers are 20-foot and 40-foot. However, there are also smaller containers, such as 10-foot containers, and larger containers, such as 45-foot containers.
Here is an overview of common shipping container dimensions:
| Container type | Outside length (m) | Outside width (m) | External height (m) | Storage capacity (m²) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 feet | 3 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 15 |
| 20 feet (TEU) | 6 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 33 |
| 40 feet (FIRE) | 12 | 2.44 | 2.59 | 65 |
| 20 feet High Cube | 6 | 2.44 | 2.89 | 37 |
| 40-foot High Cube | 12 | 2.44 | 2.89 | 76 |
Focus on 20-foot containers
20-foot containers are the most commonly used, along with 40-foot containers, in maritime transport. Their popularity is due to their versatile size, which enables them to carry a wide variety of goods.
A 20-foot container, also known as a Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU), is the standard measurement used in the transport industry to quantify the capacity of container ships and terminals.
There are also "High Cube" versions of these containers, which are 30 cm higher, offering additional volume for storage and transport of goods.
Dimensions of a 20-foot container:
- 6 meters long,
- 2.44 meters wide,
- 2.59 metres high and 2.89 metres in High Cube,
- Offering 33 m² of storage capacity.
Focus on 40-foot containers
A 40-foot container, or "Forty-foot Equivalent Unit" (FEU), is twice the size and can carry twice the quantity of goods. Dimensions of a 40-foot container:
– 12 metres long,
- 2.44 metres wide
- 2.59 metres high and 2.89 metres in High Cube,
- with an impressive storage capacity of 65 m².
There are also "High Cube" versions of these containers, which are 30 cm higher, offering additional volume for storage and transport of goods.
Inside and outside dimensions of a container
| Container type | Inside length (m) | Inside width (m) | Internal height (m) | Storage capacity (m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 feet | 2.83 | 2.35 | 2.39 | 15.76 |
| 20 feet (TEU) | 5.90 | 2.35 | 2.39 | 33.14 |
| 40 feet (FIRE) | 12.03 | 2.35 | 2.39 | 67.57 |
| 20 feet High Cube | 5.90 | 2.35 | 2.69 | 37.30 |
| 40-foot High Cube | 12.03 | 2.35 | 2.69 | 76.04 |
When it comes to container dimensions, it's important to distinguish between interior and exterior dimensions. External dimensions are those of the box itself, while internal dimensions are the usable space inside the container.
For example, a 20-foot container may be 6 meters long on the outside, but the usable space inside may be slightly less due to the thickness of the container walls. It is therefore crucial to take these differences into account when planning the loading of a container.
The height of a container
The height of a container can vary according to the type of container. Most standard containers are 2.59 meters high, but there are also "High Cube" containers which are 2.89 meters high, offering additional volume for storage and transport of goods.
It's important to note that the inside height of a container may be slightly less than its outside height, due to the thickness of the container's floor and roof.
Maritime container applications
Sea containers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of applications. Their most common use is for transporting goods around the world. However, their use is not limited to the transport sector.
Sea containers are increasingly being used in housing constructionoffice buildings, stores and even swimming pools. Their sturdiness, availability and ease of transport make them an attractive option for modular construction projects.
Sea containers are often used for storage. Whether for storing furniture during a move, equipment for an event or goods for a company, sea containers offer a secure, weatherproof storage solution.
At ByCommute, we use these containers to transform them into durable, safe bicycle shelters. Find out more about BySecurity.
Conclusion
Understanding the dimensions of shipping containers is essential for anyone working in the transport, logistics or construction sectors. Whether you're looking to ship goods around the world, build a container home or simply store items, it's important to choose the right container for your needs.
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