Shipping Container Dimensions: The Ultimate Guide for Buyers

Select the ideal shipping container for your requirements—sizes, kinds, and purchasing advice.

Understanding dimensions, types, and applications at Container Bids is key for selecting the ideal shipping container. Choosing the right size is essential for maximizing value and utility whether you require storage, a mobile office, or a bespoke construction.

We will go over: in this guide.

Standard Versus Specialty Container Dimensions

✔ Essential Dimensions Both External and Internal

✔ Structural Specifications and Weight Limits Best Applications for Every Size

✔ Why Buying from Container Bids Saves

You Money You will be able to determine precisely which container suits your project by the finish and why Container Bids is the greatest source to buy!

Why the size of shipping containers is important Although they form the foundation of international commerce, shipping containers are also adaptable, tough, and affordable for both personal and commercial usage.

Choosing the right size guarantees:

Efficient Space Utilization: no wasted space.

Cost Savings: Prevent paying too much for extra room.

Fits trucks, rail, and your property; offers travel and positioning flexibility. Delivered rapidly at amazing rates, Container Bids provides new, used, and auction containers in all common and unique sizes, you can aswell purchase vending machines.

Standard Shipping Container Sizes & Dimensions

1. 20-Foot Container (20’ Dry Van)

  • External Dimensions: 20’ L × 8’ W × 8’6” H
  • Internal Dimensions: ~19’4” L × 7’8” W × 7’9” H 1
  • Capacity: ~1,170 cubic feet | Max Weight: 67,200 lbs
  • Best For: Small storage, workshops, tiny homes, retail pop-ups

Why Buy from Us?

  • One-Trip & Cargo-Worthy Options – Like-new condition at used prices.
  • Fast Nationwide Delivery – Get yours in days, not weeks.

2. 40-Foot Container (40’ Dry Van)

  • External Dimensions: 40’ L × 8’ W × 8’6” H
  • Internal Dimensions: ~39’5” L × 7’8” W × 7’9” H 1
  • Capacity: ~2,390 cubic feet | Max Weight: 67,200 lbs
  • Best For: Large storage, construction sites, multi-room conversions

Why Buy from Us?

  • High-Cube Options Available – Extra foot of height (9’6”) for bulky cargo.
  • Competitive Pricing – Save 20-30% vs. retail dealers.

3. High-Cube Containers (40’ HC & 45’ HC)

  • External Dimensions: 40’ L × 8’ W × 9’6” H
  • Internal Dimensions: ~39’5” L × 7’8” W × 8’10” H 7
  • Capacity: ~2,700+ cubic feet | Max Weight: 67,200 lbs
  • Best For: Tall equipment, luxury container homes, retail spaces

Why Buy from Us?

  • Wider Door Clearance – Easier loading for oversized items.
  • Custom Modifications – Add windows, vents, or insulation.

Specialty Container Sizes & Uses

1. 10-Foot Containers (Compact Storage)

  • Dimensions: 10’ L × 8’ W × 8’6” H 7
  • Best For: Backyard sheds, urban storage, tiny offices

2. Open-Top & Flat-Rack Containers

  • Open-Top: Removable roof for crane loading (great for machinery).
  • Flat-Rack: Collapsible sides for oversized cargo (e.g., vehicles, pipes) 7.

3. Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers

  • Dimensions: 20’ or 40’ with temp control (-30°C to +30°C) 1.
  • Best For: Food storage, pharmaceuticals, perishable goods.

Key Buying Considerations

1. New vs. Used Containers

  • New (“One-Trip”): Pristine condition, 10+ year lifespan.
  • Used (Cargo-Worthy): Minor dents but fully functional—best for budget buyers 5.

2. Weight Limits & Payloads

  • Tare Weight: Empty container weight (e.g., 2,300 kg for 20’).
  • Payload: Max cargo weight (e.g., 28,430 kg for 20’) 8.

3. Delivery & Site Prep

  • Need a Concrete Pad? We guide you on placement.
  • Delivery Cost? Get a free quote based on your location.

Why Buy from Container Bids?

✅ Lowest Prices – Save 30-50% vs. retail with our auction deals.
✅ Massive Inventory – All sizes in stock, from 10’ to 53’.
✅ Fast Delivery – Ships in days, not months.
✅ Rent-to-Own Options – Flexible financing available.

👉 [Browse Our Container Auctions Today]

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