Choosing the right size is the first decision you’ll make when buying a shipping container. This guide sets out the standard shipping container sizes and dimensions used in the UK, from compact 8ft units to 45ft high cubes, so you can check exactly what fits on your site and what you can fit inside.
Quick answer: the most common sizes are 10ft, 20ft and 40ft. All standard containers are 8ft (2.44m) wide. Standard units are 8ft 6in (2.59m) tall, and high cube units are 9ft 6in (2.90m) tall.
Shipping container sizes chart
The figures below are typical for ISO steel containers. Dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer, so always check the product listing for the exact unit you are buying.
| Size | External (L × W × H) | Internal (L × W × H) | Approx. volume | Approx. empty weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft standard | 2.99m × 2.44m × 2.59m | 2.83m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 16 m³ | 1,300 kg |
| 20ft standard | 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.59m | 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 33 m³ | 2,200 kg |
| 20ft high cube | 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.90m | 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 37 m³ | 2,400 kg |
| 40ft standard | 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.59m | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 67 m³ | 3,750 kg |
| 40ft high cube | 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.90m | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 76 m³ | 3,900 kg |
| 45ft high cube | 13.72m × 2.44m × 2.90m | 13.56m × 2.35m × 2.69m | 86 m³ | 4,800 kg |
Smaller and non-standard sizes such as 6ft, 8ft, 12ft and 16ft are also made, mainly for storage rather than shipping. Their dimensions vary more between manufacturers, so check each listing.
Small containers: 6ft, 8ft and 10ft
Small containers are ideal where space or access is limited, such as gardens, driveways, allotments, school grounds and small yards. A 10ft container gives about 16 cubic metres of secure storage, roughly the contents of a one-bedroom flat or a well-stocked garage. 8ft containers are narrower in length and often fit where nothing else will.
16ft containers: the in-between size
A 16ft storage container is a practical middle ground. It gives you around 60% more space than a 10ft unit without needing the full length of a 20ft container. Many 16ft units come with a roll-up door for easy, ground-level access.
20ft containers: the most popular size
The 20ft container is the UK’s best-selling size for storage. It suits homes, farms, trades and businesses, and it is also the most common size for conversions into offices, workshops and cafes. A 20ft container holds around 10 standard UK pallets (1.2m × 1.0m) or 11 Euro pallets on the floor.
40ft and 45ft containers: maximum capacity
40ft containers double the floor space of a 20ft unit, holding around 20 UK pallets or 23 to 24 Euro pallets. They are the best value per square metre and suit farms, warehouses, builders’ merchants and large projects. 45ft high cubes add another 1.5m of length for bulky or high-volume storage.
Standard vs high cube containers
High cube containers are 30cm (1ft) taller than standard units. That extra height makes a real difference if you plan to fit racking, insulation, a ceiling or lighting, or if you are converting a container into an office or living space. For basic storage, a standard height container is usually all you need.
Door openings and access
The usable door opening on a standard container is roughly 2.34m wide and 2.28m high, or about 2.58m high on a high cube. If you need to load long or wide items, consider:
- Double door (tunnel) containers with doors at both ends
- Side-opening containers that open along the full length
- Open top containers for loading from above by crane
How much space do you need on site?
Allow for more than the container’s footprint. You need room to open the doors fully (about 1.2m in front of the doors), a firm and level base, and clear access for the delivery lorry. Read our guide to container delivery and installation before you order.
Frequently asked questions
What are the dimensions of a 20ft shipping container?
A standard 20ft container measures about 6.06m long, 2.44m wide and 2.59m high externally. Inside, it is roughly 5.90m long, 2.35m wide and 2.39m high.
What are the dimensions of a 40ft shipping container?
A standard 40ft container is about 12.19m long, 2.44m wide and 2.59m high externally. A 40ft high cube is the same length and width but 2.90m high.
Are all shipping containers the same width?
Yes. Standard ISO containers are all 8ft (2.44m) wide externally, which is why they stack and transport so easily.
Which container size is best for garden storage?
A 10ft container suits most gardens. If you have more space and want room for bikes, tools and furniture, a 16ft or 20ft container is worth considering.
Find the right size for you
Still not sure which size to choose? Read how to choose the right shipping container, browse our full range of shipping containers for sale, or request a quote and our team will recommend the best option for your site.