Shipping containers come in a handful of standard sizes, but the differences in length, width and height matter more than they first appear. Choosing the wrong dimensions can mean wasted budget on space you never use, or a container that is too cramped for the job. This guide sets out the real-world dimensions of each common type, so you can match the size to your storage, business or conversion plans.
Shipping containers are built to ISO standards so they fit consistently on ships, trains and lorries anywhere in the world. This is why every 20ft container is close to the same size, regardless of manufacturer or shipping line. The main variables you need to consider are length, width, standard versus High Cube height, and door configuration. Everything else, from steel gauge to corner castings, stays broadly consistent across the industry.
A 10ft container is approximately 3 metres long, with the same standard width of around 2.35 metres as larger containers. It suits situations where space is limited, such as narrow gardens, small building sites, or as a compact tool and equipment store. Because it is short, it is also easier to manoeuvre and place on sites with restricted access, though it offers the least floor area of the common sizes.
The 20ft container is roughly 6 metres long and remains the most widely used size for storage and light business use. It offers a practical balance between capacity and footprint, fitting easily on most driveways, yards and building sites. For many private and small business users, a 20ft unit is the default choice unless there is a specific reason to go bigger or smaller.
A 40ft container is around 12 metres long, doubling the floor area of a 20ft unit while using the same width. This size suits bulk storage, larger workshops, or conversions into offices, shops or living spaces where floor area matters more than manoeuvrability. Because of its length, delivery access needs more thought; a long, straight approach with enough turning room for a lorry makes placement considerably easier.
The 45ft container is the longest common size, at approximately 13.7 metres. It is less widely used than the 40ft but can be useful when a project needs the maximum practical length, such as extended storage runs or bespoke conversions. Availability tends to be more limited than for 20ft and 40ft units, so it is worth checking current stock via the shop or requesting a quote for a specific project.
High Cube containers share the same length and width as their standard counterparts but stand about 30 centimetres taller, giving an internal height of roughly 2.70 metres instead of the standard 2.39 metres. That extra height matters more than it sounds: it allows for insulation and internal cladding without losing usable headroom, easier stacking of pallets or goods, and a noticeably more comfortable feel for anyone working inside. High Cube versions are available in 20ft and 40ft, and are a common choice for conversions into offices, workshops or living spaces.
| Type | Approx. length | Approx. width | Approx. internal height | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft | 3 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m | Compact storage, tight sites |
| 20ft | 6 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m | General storage, small business use |
| 20ft High Cube | 6 m | 2.35 m | 2.70 m | Insulated storage, conversions |
| 40ft | 12 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m | Bulk storage, larger workshops |
| 40ft High Cube | 12 m | 2.35 m | 2.70 m | Offices, shops, living conversions |
| 45ft | 13.7 m | 2.35 m | 2.39 m or High Cube | Maximum length storage or conversion |
Beyond the standard box, several variants change the dimensions in specific ways. Double door containers add a second set of doors at the opposite end, useful for through-loading. Open side containers have doors along the full length of one side, giving wide access for equipment or vehicles. Flat rack containers have no fixed sides at all, suited to oversized or irregular cargo. Refrigerated containers are also available on request, with slightly reduced internal dimensions due to insulation and cooling units. All of these can be requested through the shop or by asking for a quote.
Start by measuring the available space at the delivery site, including access for a lorry with a crane or sideloader. Then consider what you are storing or building: bulky stock or vehicles favour length, while insulated conversions favour the extra height of a High Cube. If you are still deciding between a new or used unit for your chosen size, the article on new versus used shipping containers explains the trade-offs in condition and price. For a size-specific recommendation, get in touch via our contact page with your intended use and delivery location.
A High Cube container is about 30 centimetres taller inside than a standard container. Standard units have an internal height of roughly 2.39 metres, while High Cube versions offer around 2.70 metres. This extra headroom is particularly useful for insulated conversions, high stacking, or simply more comfortable working space.
Yes, virtually all standard shipping containers share the same external width of about 2.4 metres, with an internal width of roughly 2.35 metres. This consistency exists because containers are built to ISO standards for compatibility across ships, trains and lorries worldwide, regardless of length or height variant.
For most private and small business storage needs, a 20ft container offers the best balance of capacity and footprint, fitting easily on driveways and yards. Larger projects with more goods to store often benefit from a 40ft unit, while tight sites may suit a compact 10ft container instead.
High Cube height is available on some 45ft containers, though availability is more limited than for 20ft and 40ft High Cube units. Because 45ft containers are less common generally, it is worth checking current stock through the shop or requesting a quote for your specific project and location.
Delivery logistics depend more on site access than on container length alone. A 40ft or 45ft container needs a straighter approach and more turning space for the delivery lorry than a 10ft or 20ft unit. Confirming site access details when requesting a quote helps avoid delivery complications on the day.
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