Shipping container dimensions
A clear reference for every common container size: the external size it is named after, the usable internal space, the door opening, and how much it holds. Figures are standard approximations, so confirm the exact numbers with your shipping line.
Internal size and capacity, by container
The width stays about the same across sizes. What changes is the length, and on high cube units, the height. Internal figures are what you actually load into.
| Container | Internal L x W x H (m) | Door W x H (m) | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft standard | 2.83 x 2.35 x 2.39 | 2.34 x 2.28 | ~16 m³ |
| 20ft standard | 5.90 x 2.35 x 2.39 | 2.34 x 2.28 | ~33 m³ |
| 40ft standard | 12.03 x 2.35 x 2.39 | 2.34 x 2.28 | ~67 m³ |
| 40ft high cube | 12.03 x 2.35 x 2.70 | 2.34 x 2.58 | ~76 m³ |
| 45ft high cube | 13.56 x 2.35 x 2.70 | 2.34 x 2.58 | ~86 m³ |
Read the internal size, not the name
A container is named by its rough external length in feet, but the steel walls take up space, so the inside is smaller. Load planning is always about the internal figure and the door opening. If a piece is close to the internal width, check it fits the door first, because the door is the narrowest point.
When to choose a high cube
A high cube has the same floor space as its standard version but around 30cm more height inside. It is the right choice for tall items, or when you want an extra layer of boxes on top without changing the footprint. For most household moves the extra height is useful rather than essential.
See your goods in the container to scale
Pick a size in Plan, drop your items in at their real dimensions, and know it fits before you book.
Common questions
What are the dimensions of a 40ft high cube container?
A 40ft high cube is about 12.19m long, 2.44m wide and 2.90m high on the outside, and roughly 12.03m by 2.35m by 2.70m inside, for about 76 cubic metres. It is the same footprint as a standard 40ft but around 30cm taller inside.
How wide is a shipping container inside?
Almost all standard containers are the same internal width, about 2.35m, whether they are 20ft or 40ft. The length and sometimes the height change with the size, but the width stays roughly the same, which is why the door opening width of about 2.34m is often the real limit for a wide item.
What is the difference between external and internal container dimensions?
External dimensions are the overall size of the box including its steel walls, used for stacking and transport. Internal dimensions are the usable space inside, which is smaller. For loading you care about the internal size and the door opening, not the external figure the size is named after.