Shipping Container Dimension Charts (Comprehensive Guide)

This guide provides a detailed and easy-to-understand breakdown of standard shipping container sizes and specifications, including internal and external dimensions, weight capacities, and typical applications. It is designed to help you quickly identify the right container type for your cargo, whether you are shipping general goods, temperature-sensitive products, or oversized machinery.

If you cannot find the exact information you need within the tables below, or if your shipment requires a more tailored solution, please feel free to contact our team. We will be happy to assist you with expert guidance and provide accurate recommendations based on your cargo requirements.

This guide covers the most commonly used ocean container types, including:

• 20ft dry shipping container
• 40ft dry shipping container
• 40ft high cube dry shipping container
• 45ft high cube dry shipping container
• 20ft flat rack container
• 40ft flat rack container
• 20ft open top container
• 40ft open top container
• 20ft ventilated container
• 20ft refrigerated (reefer) container
• 40ft refrigerated (reefer) container
• 20ft ISO tank container

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Understanding Shipping Containers

The global shipping industry relies heavily on standardised container types, with the 20ft and 40ft dry containers being the most widely used worldwide. These containers are often referred to as “dry vans” because they are fully enclosed and designed to protect cargo from external environmental conditions during transport.

Standard containers are:

• Fully sealed and weatherproof
• Designed for general cargo
• Not temperature-controlled
• Not ventilated

They are suitable for a wide range of goods including manufactured products, textiles, electronics, machinery parts, and palletised cargo.

A typical 20ft container can generally accommodate:

• Up to 10 standard pallets, or
• Approximately 11 Euro pallets (depending on loading configuration and cargo stacking efficiency)

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20ft Standard Shipping Container Dimensions

The 20ft container is one of the most commonly used units in international shipping due to its versatility, affordability, and ease of handling. It is ideal for smaller shipments or cargo that does not require large volume space.

Container Application

Suitable for general-purpose dry cargo including retail goods, industrial parts, boxed items, and palletised freight.

Internal and Door Dimensions

Weight Capacity

Volume Capacity

• 1,172 cubic feet (CFT)
• 33.2 cubic metres (CBM)

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40ft Standard Shipping Container Dimensions

The 40ft container is the most widely used container for high-volume international shipments. It offers significantly more space than a 20ft unit, making it ideal for larger consignments and bulk cargo.

Container Application

Used for general cargo, export goods, manufacturing shipments, and palletised freight requiring greater capacity.

Internal and Door Dimensions

Weight Capacity

Volume Capacity

• 2,389.75 CFT
• 67.67 CBM

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40ft High Cube Container Dimensions

High cube containers are similar to standard containers but offer an additional extra foot of height, making them ideal for lightweight, bulky, or high-volume cargo.

Container Application

Best suited for oversized packaging, lightweight goods, machinery, and cargo requiring additional vertical space.

Internal Dimensions

Weight Capacity

Volume Capacity

• 2,694 CFT
• 76.3 CBM

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45ft High Cube Container Dimensions

The 45ft high cube container is designed for large-volume shipments that require additional length and height. It is commonly used in logistics operations where maximising cargo space is essential.

Container Application

Suitable for bulky cargo, oversized cartons, industrial goods, and large-scale export shipments.

Internal Dimensions

Weight Capacity

Volume Capacity

• 3,122 CFT
• 88.4 CBM

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Ventilated Shipping Containers

Ventilated containers are specially designed to allow continuous airflow through built-in ventilation openings along the container structure. This airflow helps regulate internal humidity and reduces the risk of condensation damage.

Container Application

Commonly used for agricultural products such as coffee beans, cocoa, and other organic materials that require controlled airflow during transit.

Key Benefits

• Reduces moisture build-up
• Prevents mould and condensation
• Maintains cargo quality during long-distance shipping

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Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers

Reefer containers are equipped with an integrated refrigeration unit designed to maintain a controlled internal temperature during transit. They are essential for transporting perishable and temperature-sensitive goods.

Typical cargo includes:

• Fresh and frozen food products
• Meat, fish, and dairy items
• Pharmaceuticals and medical supplies

These containers require continuous external power from a vessel, port, or generator to maintain internal temperature conditions.

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Flat Rack Containers

Flat rack containers are designed for extremely heavy, oversized, or irregular cargo that cannot fit within standard enclosed containers.

Common Cargo Types

• Heavy machinery
• Construction equipment
• Industrial vehicles
• Large pipes and steel structures

Because they have no roof and sometimes no side walls, cargo must be securely lashed and protected from weather exposure during transit.

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Open Top Containers

Open top containers are similar in structure to standard containers but feature a removable or open roof covered by a tarpaulin. This design allows cargo to be loaded from the top using cranes.

Typical Use

• Oversized machinery
• Tall equipment
• Irregular-shaped cargo
• Heavy goods requiring crane loading

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ISO Tank Containers

ISO tank containers are specialised units designed for the safe transport of liquids and gases in bulk quantities. They are built within a reinforced steel frame for maximum safety and durability.

Common Cargo Includes

• Oils and chemicals
• Liquid food products
• Industrial gases

They are widely used due to their efficiency, environmental safety, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional tankers.

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Shipping & Booking Information

We provide reliable and efficient shipping solutions for a range of container types, including:

• 20ft standard containers
• 40ft standard containers
• 40ft high cube containers

For specialised cargo such as refrigerated goods, oversized machinery, or hazardous materials, container selection will depend on:

• Cargo dimensions
• Total weight
• Handling and loading requirements
• Shipping route and destination

Our experienced logistics team is available to guide you through the entire process, from container selection to final booking.

For further assistance or enquiries, please contact us:

📧 info@fastcustomsclearance.co.uk
📞 020 8058 3086