Shipping Container Dimensions & Sizes Guide: 10ft, 20ft, 40ft & High Cube
Choosing the right container starts with knowing its shipping container dimensions. Maybe you need a small unit for home storage, a secure space for tools on a job site, or a base for a custom build. In each case, the length, height, and interior space decide what fits and where the container can go.
This guide covers every size Quality Storage Container sells and rents: 10ft, 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft. It explains the difference between standard and high cube units and gives clear charts of external and internal measurements, so you can compare sizes quickly and pick the right one before you request a quote.
Shipping Container Sizes & Dimensions by Length
Almost all shipping containers share the same 8 ft width. The two things that change are the length and the height. Use the chart below for a quick comparison, then read the detailed breakdown for each size.
| Container Size | External (L × W × H) | Internal (L × W × H) |
|---|---|---|
| 10ft Standard | 10 ft × 8 ft × 8 ft 6 in | approx. 9 ft 3 in × 7 ft 8 in × 7 ft 9 in |
| 20ft Standard | 20 ft × 8 ft × 8 ft 6 in | 19 ft 4 in × 7 ft 8 in × 7 ft 9 in |
| 20ft High Cube | 20 ft × 8 ft × 9 ft 6 in | 19 ft 4 in × 7 ft 8 in × 8 ft 10 in |
| 40ft Standard | 40 ft × 8 ft × 8 ft 6 in | 39 ft 5 in × 7 ft 8 in × 7 ft 9 in |
| 40ft High Cube | 40 ft × 8 ft × 9 ft 6 in | 39 ft 5 in × 7 ft 8 in × 8 ft 10 in |
| 45ft | Available, ask our team for specs | Confirmed on your quote |
Specs may vary slightly by manufacturer and condition. Confirm the exact measurements on your quote.
10ft Container Dimensions & Uses
The 10ft container is the most compact size we offer, both to buy and to rent. Its small footprint fits places a 20ft unit can't, such as tight driveways, small yards, and crowded job sites, while still giving you a secure, weather-resistant space.
Ideal For:
- Residential Storage: Keeping seasonal items, furniture, or overflow belongings close to home.
- Small Job Sites: Storing tools and materials where space is limited.
- Small Businesses: Holding extra inventory or supplies without taking over your lot.
| Measurement | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 10 ft | 3.05 m |
| External Width | 8 ft | 2.44 m |
| External Height | 8 ft 6 in | 2.59 m |
| Internal Length | approx. 9 ft 3 in | approx. 2.82 m |
| Internal Width | 7 ft 8 in | 2.35 m |
| Internal Height | 7 ft 9 in | 2.39 m |
20ft Shipping Container Dimensions & Uses
The 20ft shipping container is the most versatile and widely used size in the industry. It provides a perfect balance of ample storage space and easy maneuverability. This container is often called a TEU, which stands for Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit. It is a global standard for shipping and storage. You can buy a 20ft container delivered anywhere in California.
Ideal For:
- Commercial & Retail: Storing extra inventory, seasonal goods, or equipment.
- Construction: Providing a secure, mobile office or storage unit for tools and materials on a job site.
- Residential & Moving: This service stores the items from a three-bedroom home. It is a popular choice for big renovations or moves.
| Measurement | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 20 ft | 6.10 m |
| External Width | 8 ft | 2.44 m |
| External Height | 8 ft 6 in | 2.59 m |
| Internal Length | 19 ft 4 in | 5.89 m |
| Internal Width | 7 ft 8 in | 2.35 m |
| Internal Height | 7 ft 9 in | 2.39 m |
| Tare Weight | 4,850 lbs | 2,200 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 57,150 lbs | 25,920 kg |
| Cubic Capacity | 1,172 cu ft | 33.2 cu m |
Ready to get a quote on the most popular container size?
Request a Free Quote for a 20ft Container
40ft Shipping Container Dimensions & Uses
The 40ft shipping container is a large-capacity solution for major industrial, commercial, and agricultural needs. It offers double the storage space of a 20ft container, which makes it a cost-effective choice for large-scale projects.
Ideal For:
- Industrial & Manufacturing: Storing raw materials, finished products, or large machinery.
- Agriculture: Securely storing grain, feed, or large farming equipment.
- Bulk Storage: Long-term storage for businesses with a significant amount of inventory.
You can buy a 40ft container delivered anywhere in California.
| Measurement | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 40 ft | 12.19 m |
| External Width | 8 ft | 2.44 m |
| External Height | 8 ft 6 in | 2.59 m |
| Internal Length | 39 ft 5 in | 12.02 m |
| Internal Width | 7 ft 8 in | 2.35 m |
| Internal Height | 7 ft 9 in | 2.39 m |
| Tare Weight | 8,270 lbs | 3,750 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 58,330 lbs | 26,460 kg |
| Cubic Capacity | 2,385 cu ft | 67.5 cu m |
High Cube vs. Standard Container Dimensions
High cube and standard containers have the same length and width. The difference is height. A standard container stands 8 ft 6 in tall, and a high cube adds an extra foot, for a total of 9 ft 6 in. That extra foot of vertical space makes a real difference for tall cargo and custom builds. Ready to buy a 40ft high cube container delivered in California?
20ft High Cube Container Dimensions
- External: 20 ft long × 8 ft wide × 9 ft 6 in high
- Internal Height: approx. 8 ft 10 in
- Footprint: Same as a standard 20ft, so you gain height without needing more ground space
40ft High Cube Container Dimensions
- External Height: 9 ft 6 in
- Internal Height: 8 ft 10 in
- Cubic Capacity: 2,694 cu ft
- Payload Capacity: 57,000 lbs
When to Choose a High Cube
- Oversized Cargo: You are storing or shipping tall machinery, vehicles, or equipment.
- Palletized Goods: You are stacking pallets or boxes and want to make the most of vertical space.
- Container Conversions: You are building a container home or office and need more ceiling height for comfort and function.
Not Sure Which Container Size You Need? How to Choose the Right Fit
Picking the wrong size usually means one of two problems: a container that doesn't fit your property, or one that runs out of room halfway through your project. You can avoid both by thinking through three things before you order: what you're storing, where the container will sit, and how you'll get to your items.
- For On-Site Storage: Start with the footprint. Will a 40ft container fit comfortably on your property? If space is tight, a 20ft or 10ft unit may work better. If you need easy step-in access, consider our ground-level storage containers.
- For Shipping: Your cargo's dimensions and weight decide the size. Calculate the volume and check the payload capacity so your items fit without going over the weight limit.
- For Custom Builds: The size depends on your design. Many architects use 40ft containers as a base, but smaller sizes can be combined to create unique layouts.
Once you know your size, decide whether owning or renting suits your timeline. If you need a permanent solution, you can buy a shipping container in any of our available sizes, delivered to your site in California or Nevada.
Customer Testimonials – California & Beyond
Our satisfied customers are our best advocates. Here’s what a few of our clients have to say about their rental experience:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Great guys to work with.and the delivery girl was beyond the best. Got 2 20 foot containers and she placed them with care. Have obtained containers from others in the past. You don't need to Look any further for the best in service."
— Mike Dever
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"We used Quality Storage Container for an out of town project and needed storage containers for our equipment, materials, etc. Both Allen and Marlin were very helpful and professional. Delivery was quick and they even followed our very specific delivery instructions without issue. Thank you for great service, Toledo Industrial Coatings appreciates you."
— Kerri London
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Container Dimensions
Get Expert Help Choosing Your Container Size
Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our team can answer your questions and help you find the best container, whether you're in California or Las Vegas.
