4 min read · Updated 9 October 2026
Standard container dimensions at a glance
The figures below are typical for ISO dry (general-purpose) containers. Exact numbers vary slightly between manufacturers, so always confirm on the unit's data plate.
| 20ft | 40ft | 40ft High Cube | 45ft High Cube | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| External length | 6.06 m (20′) | 12.19 m (40′) | 12.19 m (40′) | 13.72 m (45′) |
| External width | 2.44 m (8′) | 2.44 m (8′) | 2.44 m (8′) | 2.44 m (8′) |
| External height | 2.59 m (8′6″) | 2.59 m (8′6″) | 2.90 m (9′6″) | 2.90 m (9′6″) |
| Internal length | ≈ 5.90 m | ≈ 12.03 m | ≈ 12.03 m | ≈ 13.56 m |
| Internal width | ≈ 2.35 m | ≈ 2.35 m | ≈ 2.35 m | ≈ 2.35 m |
| Internal height | ≈ 2.39 m | ≈ 2.39 m | ≈ 2.69 m | ≈ 2.69 m |
| Floor area | ≈ 13.9 m² | ≈ 28.3 m² | ≈ 28.3 m² | ≈ 31.9 m² |
| Volume | ≈ 33 m³ | ≈ 67 m³ | ≈ 76 m³ | ≈ 86 m³ |
| Empty (tare) weight | ≈ 2,200 kg | ≈ 3,750 kg | ≈ 3,900 kg | ≈ 4,800 kg |
Door opening is roughly 2.34 m wide × 2.28 m high on standard units and about 2.58 m high on High Cubes.
Which size fits your space?
- 20ft — about the size of a single parking space plus a bit. Easiest to deliver into estates and narrow streets. Popular for shops, storage and site offices.
- 40ft — double the floor area. Better value per square metre for warehouses and large stores, but needs more room for the truck to manoeuvre.
- 40ft High Cube — same footprint as a 40ft with roughly 30 cm more headroom. Preferred for conversions (offices, apartments) where you'll add insulation and a ceiling.
- 45ft High Cube — the largest common size; mostly used for bulky, light cargo.
Remember to allow space around the container: the doors swing outwards, and the delivery truck needs a clear approach. Compare the two most common sizes in 20ft vs 40ft.
Frequently asked questions
How big is a 20ft container inside?
Roughly 5.9 m long, 2.35 m wide and 2.39 m high inside — about 13.9 m² of floor and 33 m³ of space.
How big is a 40ft container?
Externally 12.19 m long, 2.44 m wide and 2.59 m high (2.90 m for a High Cube). Inside it is about 12 m long with around 28 m² of floor.
What is a High Cube container?
A High Cube is one foot (about 30 cm) taller than a standard container — 9′6″ instead of 8′6″ externally — giving more headroom and volume.