Understanding Cargo Container Dimensions and Options

Cargo containers come in a variety of dimensions to suit different shipping needs. Standard cargo containers are typically 20 or 40 feet long, with a width of 8 feet and a height of 8.5 feet.

The most common cargo container size is the 40-foot container, which can hold up to 45,000 pounds of cargo.

Standard containers are often used for international shipping, while smaller containers like 10 and 20-foot options are better suited for domestic or regional transport.

Explore further: B Pallets

Container sizes vary depending on the type of container and its intended use. The most common shipping container is the 20ft container, which measures 6.05m long x 2.43m wide x 2.59m tall.

A 20ft container has an internal volume of 33.2 m³, equivalent to the space of 200 standard mattresses or 9,600 wine bottles. Its maximum weight capacity is often capped at 30 tons.

The 40ft standard shipping container is double the length and volume of the 20ft container, with an internal volume of 2,385 ft³. This makes it ideal for storing or transporting bulkier objects.

The internal dimensions of standard shipping containers are as follows:

The most commonly used container is the 40ft container, which is equivalent to 2 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units). This makes it easier to handle with standard handling infrastructure.

International container transport is based on 20ft containers, but 40ft and 45ft containers are also widely used. The 45ft container is essentially an extended 40ft container, built to be handled with standard equipment.

You might enjoy: Dimensions of 40ft Container High Cube

Let's dive into the different types of containers that are commonly used in shipping and transportation.

Dry containers are the most widely used type, with standard dimensions of 20 or 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8.5 feet in height. They are perfect for transporting general cargo like machinery, furniture, and electronics.

Refrigerated containers, also known as reefers, are designed for transporting perishable goods that require a controlled temperature. They have a similar size to dry containers but with additional insulation and cooling systems to maintain a consistent temperature.

Specialized containers are designed for specific types of cargo, such as tanks for liquids, flat racks for oversized cargo, and open-top containers for heavy or bulky items.

A fresh viewpoint: Temperature Cargo Hold Plane

ISO Tanks are designed to transport or store bulk liquids or powders. Their external footprint is the same, but different models can hold varying volumes.

The external dimensions of ISO Liquid Tanks are quite impressive, with a length of 6,058mm, a width of 2,438mm, and a height of 2,591mm. These dimensions are consistent across the range of models.

ISO Liquid Tanks have a tare weight of 2,500-3,500kg, which increases to 36,000kg when fully loaded. This is a significant weight increase, highlighting the tank's capacity.

The external dimensions of ISO Pneumatic Tanks are slightly different, with a length of 6,058mm, a width of 2,502mm, and a height of 2,896mm. These dimensions are specific to the Pneumatic Tank model.

Here's a comparison of the external dimensions of ISO Liquid and Pneumatic Tanks:

Open top containers are a great option for shipping large or heavy items that don't fit in regular containers. They feature a removable top, covered by a tarpaulin sheet, allowing for flexibility in cargo configurations.

The container itself is made of steel, but has wood flooring and swinging door heads. This design makes it perfect for storing machinery and heavy materials that need to be stored upright.

These containers can be loaded via crane and secured with lash rings. If the cargo is in gauge, meaning it sits below the roof level, shipping costs will be lower. However, if the cargo doesn't fit, the container can't be stacked and shipping costs will be much higher to make up for the wasted space.

The shower block is a type of container that's perfect for outdoor events and festivals. It's essentially a large, portable shower facility.

You can find shower blocks in various sizes, but the most common one is the 20ft shower block. This type of container has a length of 5,866 mm and a width of 2,246 mm.

One thing to note about the 20ft shower block is its external dimensions. The external length is actually 6,058 mm, and the external width is 2,438 mm.

The weight of a 20ft shower block is also worth mentioning. The tare weight is 3,000 kg, which is the weight of the container itself without any payload.

If you're planning to use a 20ft shower block, you'll want to consider its payload capacity. The payload weight is also 3,000 kg, which means you can fill it up to that weight with showering facilities and equipment.

Here are the key dimensions of a 20ft shower block:

The maximum gross weight (MGW) of a 20ft shower block is 6,000 kg, which includes the weight of the container, payload, and any additional equipment.

A standard shipping container has a maximum width of 2.5 meters, but some special containers, known as Pallet Wide Containers, are about 5 cm wider.

The most common container lengths are 20ft and 40ft, with a standard width of 2.44 meters and a height of 2.6 meters, or 2.9 meters for high cube containers.

Shipping containers come in various lengths, including 6ft, 8ft, 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft, with the most common length being 40ft, which is over 12 meters long.

Consider reading: 5 Yard Container

Container dimensions can vary, but standard ISO shipping containers are 20-foot or 40-foot long, with a standard width of 8 feet. They come in two heights: 8 foot 6 inches (standard height) and 9 foot 6 inches (high-cube height).

The most common container lengths are 20ft and 40ft, both with a standard width of 2.44 meters. The height of a standard container is usually 2.6 meters, while a high cube container is 2.9 meters high.

You can find shipping containers in various lengths, including 6ft, 8ft, 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft. The 40ft container is the longest, measuring over 12 meters.

Here's a quick comparison of some common container dimensions:

Some containers, like the 10ft Dangerous Goods container, have specific requirements and restrictions due to their contents. Always check the dimensions and specifications of a container before using it.

Pallet Wide containers are designed for optimal transport of goods on Euro pallets. They are about 5 cm wider than standard shipping containers.

These containers can fit three pallets side by side, making them a great option for businesses that need to transport large quantities of goods. Their interior width is 2.35 meters, but the Pallet Wide variant is 5 cm wider.

Standard Pallet Wide containers come in 20ft and 40ft sizes. The 20ft Pallet Wide container has internal dimensions of 5,899mm in length and 2,422mm in width. The 40ft Pallet Wide container has internal dimensions of 12,041mm in length and 2,414mm in width.

Here are some key dimensions for Pallet Wide containers:

By adding vertical load bars to these containers, you can increase their pallet capacity to 20 pallets. This makes them a great option for businesses that need to transport large quantities of goods safely and securely.

The discharge tank is a crucial component of a container, playing a vital role in its overall functionality.

Typically, discharge tanks are found in containers with a volume of 20-40 feet, as seen in the "Standard Container Sizes" section.

They are usually positioned at the bottom of the container, allowing for easy access and efficient discharge of goods.

The discharge tank's capacity can vary depending on the container's size, with a typical capacity of 2,000-4,000 liters, as mentioned in the "Container Capacity" section.

This allows for a smooth and efficient discharge process, minimizing the risk of spills and damage to the surrounding area.

A different take: Cargo Ship Container Capacity

A standard shipping container of 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft has an interior height of 2.39 meters.

The High Cube container is a standard container with normal dimensions but raised by about 30 cm. This results in much more loading space.

For example, a 40ft High Cube container has about 8.5 m³ more loading space than a standard 40ft container. However, the maximum load weight may not increase, and sometimes even decreases due to the greater weight of the empty container.

The 20ft High Cube shipping container provides an additional foot of height for extra storage, with an internal height of 2,700mm and an external height of 2,896mm.

Here are some key height-related facts about shipping containers:

The 40ft High Cube container has a slightly raised height, but it's not significantly higher than the standard 40ft container.

A standard dry 20ft container has a volume of 33.2 m³.

The volume of a shipping container is expressed in cubic meters (m³).

A 10ft container has a volume of 15.5m³.

The volume of a 40ft container is 67.8m³.

The volume of a shipping container is indeed quite large, which is why it's essential to consider the space you have available when shipping goods.

Here are the volumes of different shipping containers to give you a better idea:

The volume of a shipping container is a crucial factor to consider when shipping goods, and it's essential to choose the right container size for your needs.

Container volume is an essential measurement to consider when working with shipping containers. It's typically expressed in cubic meters (m³).

A standard dry 20ft container has a volume of 33.2 m³. This is a crucial factor to consider when deciding which container to use for a specific shipment.

The volume of a shipping container can vary depending on its size. For example, a 40ft container has a volume of 67.8m³.

If you're working with 20ft containers, it's worth noting that the 20ft high cube container provides an additional foot of height for extra storage, but the volume remains the same as a standard 20ft container.

Here's a comparison of the volumes of different container sizes:

This information can help you choose the right container for your specific needs and ensure that you're getting the most out of your storage space.

The door on a container is a crucial feature, especially on side door containers. They make loading and unloading cargo a breeze.

Side door containers come in various sizes, suited to different cargo types. The mezzanine deck on SCF's side opening containers enables operators to stack fragile freight without the risk of damage.

The external dimensions of a 20ft side door container are quite specific. The length is 6,058 mm and the width is 2,500 mm.

Here are the internal and external dimensions of a 20ft side door container:

A 20ft side door container can be loaded or unloaded from both sides, making it a convenient option.

In metric terms, a standard 20ft shipping container measures 5.71m in length, 2.35m in width, and 2.38m in height.

The internal dimensions of a 20ft container are slightly smaller, with a length of 5.71m, a width of 2.35m, and a height of 2.38m.

The external dimensions of a 20ft container are 6.06m long, 2.44m wide, and 2.59m tall.

A 20ft high cube container, on the other hand, is 6.06m long, 2.44m wide, and 2.896m tall.

Here are the internal and external dimensions of a 20ft high cube container:

The site office is a crucial part of any construction project, and understanding its dimensions is essential for effective management.

The 20ft site office has an external length of 6,058mm and an external width of 2,438mm.

When configuring your site office, keep in mind that it can be tailored to suit your specific needs.

The 20ft site office's dimensions are as follows:

The site office's volume is not explicitly stated, but we can calculate it if needed.

The maximum gross weight (MGW) of the 20ft site office is 10,000kg.

Understanding the site office's dimensions and weight capacity will help you plan and manage your construction project more effectively.

A 20ft container workshop is a great alternative to a traditional shed, especially if you need it quickly.

These workshops are perfect for worksites where space is limited and speed is essential.

The external dimensions of a 20ft container workshop are quite impressive, measuring 5,898mm in length and 2,350mm in width.

You can fit a significant amount of equipment and materials inside, with a payload capacity of 28,165kg.

The total weight of a 20ft container workshop is 30,480kg, including the tare weight of 2,315kg.

Here are the key dimensions of a 20ft container workshop at a glance:

You can choose from standard and high-cube models, with the standard 20ft container being ideal for small and heavy cargo, while the 40ft standard or high-cube models are better suited for a large volume of goods.

Consider the size of your goods, whether they're bulky or compact, light or heavy, as this will directly affect the type and size of the container you need.

A standard 20ft container is a great option for moving house or seeking storage space, while a larger container may be necessary for transforming a container into a tiny home, farm, office, or storefront.

Discover more: High Cube Reefer Container

Curtain side containers are a popular choice for shipping goods due to their ease of use. They offer a wide opening that makes it simple to load and unload goods quickly and safely.

The external dimensions of a 40ft curtain side container are 12,192mm in length and 2,500mm in width. This makes them ideal for transporting large or bulky items.

With a height of 3,000mm, curtain side containers can accommodate goods of varying sizes. Their external dimensions also allow for easy stacking and storage.

Here are the key dimensions of a 40ft curtain side container:

The maximum gross weight (MGW) of a 40ft curtain side container is 32,000kg. This is an important consideration when loading goods to ensure safe transportation.

The 20ft Ablution Block is a great option for those in need of a portable bathroom solution. It measures 5,770mm in length and 2,150mm in width.

Its external dimensions are slightly larger, measuring 6,058mm in length and 2,438mm in width. The block weighs a total of 10,000kg, with a tare weight of 3,590kg and a payload capacity of 6,410kg.

The height of the block is 2,440mm, which is just 456mm shy of the maximum height of 2,896mm. This compact design makes it easy to transport and set up.

Here are the external dimensions of the 20ft Ablution Block at a glance:

Choosing the right shipping container is crucial to ensure safe and efficient storage or transportation of your goods. Consider the size of the goods you plan to store or transport - are they bulky or compact?

The size of your cargo will directly affect the type and size of the container you need. A standard 20ft container might be ideal for small and heavy cargo.

Your budget will also play a significant role in selecting the right container. A large volume of goods may require a larger container, such as the 40ft standard or high-cube models.

Ultimately, the right container for you will depend on your specific needs and how you plan to use it.

Standard shipping containers are 8' wide (2.44m) and measured in TEU's (twenty-foot equivalent units).

These dimensions are crucial for safe stacking on top of and below other shipping containers. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sets the standards for shipping container dimensions.

ISO 668 is the specific standard that governs shipping container dimensions to ensure smooth transportation by cargo ships, rail cars, and chassis trailers. Each intermodal shipping container must be able to stack perfectly and lock into place securely.

Expand your knowledge: Air Cargo Pallet Dimensions

Specialized containers come in various sizes and shapes, designed for specific cargo types.

The refrigerated container, for example, maintains a consistent temperature between 15°C and 30°C to keep perishable goods fresh during transportation.

These containers are often used for shipping fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Standard dry containers, on the other hand, are the most common type and measure 20 or 40 feet in length.

Dangerous Goods containers are designed to safely store a range of chemicals and corrosives. They come in various sizes, including a standard 2,100mm long internal length.

The internal dimensions of a standard Dangerous Goods container are 2,100mm in length, 1,345mm in width, and 1,675mm in height. This provides ample space for storing dangerous goods.

A standard Dangerous Goods container has a tare weight of 900kg and a payload capacity of 3,000kg. This means you can store up to 3,000kg of goods inside the container.

The external dimensions of a standard Dangerous Goods container are 2,163mm in length, 1,425mm in width, and 2,289mm in height. This makes it easy to transport and maneuver on site.

Worth a look: Standard Jewel Case Size

For larger storage needs, consider a 10ft Dangerous Goods container. These containers have an internal length of 2,840mm.

The external dimensions of a 10ft Dangerous Goods container are 2,991mm in length, 2,438mm in width, and 2,896mm in height. This provides more space for storing larger quantities of dangerous goods.

Here's a comparison of the internal and external dimensions of standard and 10ft Dangerous Goods containers:

A 10ft Dangerous Goods container has a tare weight of 1,800kg and a payload capacity of 8,360kg. This makes it ideal for storing larger quantities of hazardous materials.

Refrigerated containers are a specialized type of shipping container designed for transporting temperature-controlled cargo. They come in various lengths, including 20ft, 41ft, 46ft, and 48ft.

One popular size is the 41ft Refrigerated Container, which is ideal for transporting temperature-controlled pallets and cargo. It's a versatile option for many industries.

A 41ft Refrigerated Container has an external length of 12,573mm and an internal length of 11,780mm. This size difference is important to consider when planning cargo storage and handling.

The 41ft Refrigerated Container has a maximum gross weight (MGW) of 35,000kg, which includes the tare weight of 6,400kg. This means you can load 28,200kg of cargo into the container.

Here's a summary of the 41ft Refrigerated Container dimensions:

Our liquid tanks are designed to meet the highest standards of safety and efficiency. They come in various sizes, ranging from 14,000 to 26,000 litres.

The external dimensions of our ISO Liquid Tank are quite impressive, with a length of 6,058 mm and a width of 2,438 mm. The height is 2,591 mm.

The weight of our ISO Liquid Tank varies depending on the volume, but the tare weight is between 2,500 and 3,500 kg. This means that the payload can be up to 32,500 kg.

Here's a breakdown of the key dimensions and weights of our ISO Liquid Tank:

This makes our ISO Liquid Tank a versatile and reliable option for transporting liquids.

A pneumatic tank is a type of container that uses compressed air to store and transport liquids or gases.

These tanks are designed to be airtight and can withstand high pressures, which makes them ideal for storing and transporting hazardous materials.

Pneumatic tanks are often used in industries that require precise temperature control, such as in the transportation of cryogenic liquids.

They can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and fiberglass, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Pneumatic tanks can be designed to be portable or stationary, depending on the specific needs of the application.

Some pneumatic tanks are equipped with valves and fittings that allow for easy filling and emptying, while others may require more specialized equipment.

Pneumatic tanks are commonly used in the chemical and petroleum industries, where they play a critical role in the storage and transportation of fuels and other hazardous materials.

They can be designed to be insulated to maintain a consistent temperature, which is important for certain types of liquids and gases.

Pneumatic tanks are an important part of many industrial processes, and their design and construction require careful consideration of factors such as pressure, temperature, and material compatibility.

A first aid room is a specialized container designed to provide a safe and efficient space for medical treatment. The 20ft First Aid Room Dimensions provide a clear picture of its size.

The external length of the room is 6,058mm, while the internal length is 5,770mm. The external width is 2,438mm, and the internal width is 2,150mm.

This room is designed to be sturdy, with a payload capacity of 7,000kg. The maximum gross weight (MGW) is 10,000kg, including the container's own weight of 3,000kg.

Here are the key dimensions of the 20ft First Aid Room:

Choosing the right shipping container depends on the size of your goods. If they're bulky or compact, light or heavy, it'll affect the type and size of the container you need.

Consider how much cargo you plan to store or transport. A large volume of goods may require a 40ft standard or high-cube model, while a standard 20ft container is ideal for small and heavy cargo.

Your budget and intended use of the container are also key factors. Whether you're moving house, seeking storage space, or transforming a container into a tiny home, office, or storefront, it's essential to choose a container that fits your needs.