Shipping Container Sizes Explained: Find the Right Fit for Your Needs
Choosing the Right Shipping Container Starts with Understanding Dimensions
Shipping containers are used for everything from secure storage and business expansions to modular homes and mobile offices. But one of the biggest challenges for buyers is understanding which container size works best for their needs.
Should you go for a standard 20ft container, a 40ft high cube, or even a 45ft option? How much internal space is actually usable? What about weight capacity and stacking potential?
At Sea Can Guys, we simplify the decision-making process. Whether you’re looking for a reliable storage unit, a workspace, or a foundation for a custom build, this guide breaks down the dimensions, capacity, and best uses for each type of container.
Shipping Container Sizes: A Breakdown of Your Options
Shipping containers come in multiple sizes, but the most common options are 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft containers. Each has unique benefits depending on space availability, storage needs, and modification potential.
Standard Shipping Container Sizes & External Dimensions
Container Type | Length | Width | Height |
20ft Standard | 20′ (6.1m) | 8′ (2.44m) | 8’6″ (2.59m) |
40ft Standard | 40′ (12.2m) | 8′ (2.44m) | 8’6″ (2.59m) |
40ft High Cube | 40′ (12.2m) | 8′ (2.44m) | 9’6″ (2.89m) |
45ft High Cube | 45′ (13.72m) | 8′ (2.44m) | 9’6″ (2.89m) |
Choosing the Right Container Size Based
on Your Needs
For Storage & Business Use:
- 20ft containers are best for small businesses and personal storage.
- 40ft standard containers work well for large-scale storage needs.
For Construction & Industrial Applications:
- 40ft high cube containers provide extra height for stacking or interior modifications.
- 45ft containers are ideal for oversized equipment or bulk materials.
For Modular Homes & Custom Builds:
- High cube containers offer added headroom for insulation, electrical, and HVAC installations.
- Multiple 40ft or 45ft containers can be combined into larger modular spaces.
At Sea Can Guys, we help clients determine the right size and type of container based on their specific needs.
How Much Usable Space Do You Actually Get? Internal Dimensions & Volume
External measurements are one thing, but what about actual usable space inside the container?
Container Type | Internal Length | Internal Width | Internal Height | Usable Volume |
20ft Standard | 19’4″ (5.89m) | 7’8″ (2.34m) | 7’10” (2.39m) | 1,170 cu ft (33.1m³) |
40ft Standard | 39’5″ (12.01m) | 7’8″ (2.34m) | 7’10” (2.39m) | 2,385 cu ft (67.5m³) |
40ft High Cube | 39’5″ (12.01m) | 7’8″ (2.34m) | 8’10” (2.69m) | 2,660 cu ft (75.3m³) |
45ft High Cube | 44’5″ (13.54m) | 7’8″ (2.34m) | 8’10” (2.69m) | 3,040 cu ft (86.1m³) |
This extra space matters for businesses, contractors, and builders who need to maximize storage or workspace efficiency.
Shipping Container Load Capacity: How Much Can They Hold?
Knowing how much weight your container can support is crucial for shipping, storage, and stacking safety.
Container Type | Maximum Gross Weight | Tare Weight (Empty) | Max Payload (Cargo Capacity) |
20ft Standard | 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg) | 5,000 lbs (2,300 kg) | 62,200 lbs (28,180 kg) |
40ft Standard | 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg) | 8,300 lbs (3,760 kg) | 58,900 lbs (26,720 kg) |
40ft High Cube | 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg) | 8,700 lbs (3,950 kg) | 58,500 lbs (26,530 kg) |
45ft High Cube | 79,370 lbs (36,000 kg) | 10,500 lbs (4,760 kg) | 68,870 lbs (31,240 kg) |
Why This Matters:
- Construction teams need to know weight limits for heavy machinery storage.
- Shipping & logistics companies must adhere to transport weight regulations.
- DIY builders need to consider weight distribution for modifications or stacking.
At Sea Can Guys, we ensure you get the right container for your specific load requirements.
Do You Need a Permit for a Shipping Container?
One of the most overlooked challenges when buying a container is understanding legal requirements.
- Storage Use: Most cities don’t require a permit for short-term storage use.
- Permanent Placement: Some municipalities require permits if placing a container on residential or commercial property long-term.
- Container Modifications: If converting a container into a home, office, or retail space, local building codes and zoning laws apply.
At Sea Can Guys, we help clients navigate local regulations to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
Why Choose Sea Can Guys?
With years of experience and a strong reputation, we provide:
✔ A Wide Range of Shipping Container Sizes – From 20ft to 45ft high cube options.
✔ Quality Assurance – All containers are inspected for structural integrity and durability.
✔ Customization Services – Modifications for business, construction, and storage needs.
✔ Nationwide Delivery – We ship across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario.
✔ Expert Support – Our team guides you through selection, permits, and modifications.
Get a Quote Today
Looking for a shipping container that fits your exact needs?
Contact Sea Can Guys today for a free quote and expert advice.
📍 Visit Us: seacanguy.ca
📞 Call: (902) 579-5833
Find the right shipping container size—without the guesswork.