Best Shipping
Container Sizes
Choosing the right shipping container size can save space, money and delivery costs. Compare 20ft, 40ft and High Cube containers to find the right option for storage, business, construction and custom projects.
Which shipping container size is right for you?
Shipping containers are available in different lengths, heights and configurations. The most common options are 20ft, 40ft and 40ft High Cube containers. Your ideal size depends on what you plan to store, how much space is available and how the container will be delivered.
20ft Shipping Container
A popular choice when you need substantial storage capacity without taking up the footprint of a larger 40ft container.
- Home and personal storage
- Construction tools
- Farm equipment
- Business inventory
- Workshop storage
40ft Shipping Container
Ideal when you need significantly more storage capacity for commercial inventory, machinery, materials or larger projects.
- Commercial storage
- Large inventories
- Machinery
- Construction materials
- Large storage projects
40ft High Cube
A 40ft High Cube provides additional internal height, making it useful for tall equipment, shelving, storage systems and conversion projects.
- Tall equipment
- Shelving and racking
- Commercial storage
- Workshops
- Container conversions
Shipping Container Size Comparison
Each container size has different advantages. Consider your storage requirements, available space and delivery conditions before making a purchase.
| Feature | 20ft | 40ft | 40ft High Cube |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 20ft | 40ft | 40ft |
| Footprint | Compact | Larger | Larger |
| Internal height | Standard | Standard | Higher |
| Storage capacity | Good | Very high | Very high |
| Best for | General storage | Large storage | Tall / high-volume storage |
| Popular applications | Home, farm, tools | Commercial, construction | Storage, workshops, conversions |
How to choose the best container size
Start with what you need to store, then consider the available space at your property and how the container will be delivered.
Measure your storage requirements
Make a list of the equipment, inventory, materials or belongings you need to store.
Measure your available space
Consider the container footprint as well as access for delivery vehicles and unloading.
Think about future storage needs
If your inventory is likely to grow, additional capacity now may prevent another purchase later.
Consider container height
A High Cube container can be useful if you need additional vertical storage space.
What can you use a shipping container for?
Shipping containers can provide flexible enclosed space for residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial applications.
Home Storage
Store furniture, tools, seasonal items and household belongings securely.
Construction
Keep tools, equipment and building materials protected on construction sites.
Business Storage
Create additional space for inventory, equipment, packaging and supplies.
Farm Storage
Store machinery, tools, fencing supplies and other agricultural equipment.
Workshops
Convert suitable containers into practical workshop and equipment spaces.
Custom Projects
Containers can be modified for offices, retail, storage and specialist applications.
Commercial Inventory
Add secure storage capacity without immediately expanding an existing building.
Large Projects
40ft and High Cube units provide substantial enclosed space for larger storage requirements.
Shipping Container Size FAQs
What is the most popular shipping container size?
20ft and 40ft containers are among the most commonly used sizes. A 20ft container is useful where space is limited, while a 40ft container provides substantially more storage capacity.
Is a 20ft or 40ft container better?
It depends on your storage requirements and available space. A 20ft container can be a practical choice for smaller storage requirements, while a 40ft container provides considerably more capacity for larger projects.
What is a High Cube shipping container?
A High Cube container has greater internal height than a standard-height container of the same length. This additional height can be useful for tall equipment, shelving, racking and conversion projects.
Is a 40ft High Cube bigger than a standard 40ft container?
Both containers have the same standard 40ft length, but a High Cube provides additional height and therefore additional internal volume.
What size container is best for a construction site?
The appropriate size depends on the amount and type of equipment and materials being stored. A 20ft container can work well where space is limited, while 40ft containers provide more capacity for larger sites.
How do I know what container size I need?
Start by measuring the items you need to store and consider how frequently you need access to them. Then compare the required capacity with the available space at your property and the delivery requirements.
Ready to Choose Your Container?
Compare 20ft, 40ft and High Cube shipping containers and find the size that fits your storage requirements, available space and project.