Standard Shipping Containers
Standard shipping containers, also called general purpose or dry van containers, are the plain steel boxes that carry most of the world’s freight. They have cargo doors at one end, corrugated steel walls, a hardwood floor and a height of 8 ft 6 in. For straightforward secure storage, they are the simplest and most cost-effective option we sell.
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Standard shipping containers in stock
- 20 foot: 20ft new shipping container, one trip 20ft shipping container and used 20ft shipping container.
- 40 foot: new 40ft shipping container, 40ft one trip shipping container and used 40ft shipping container.
Standard sizes
| Measurement | 20ft standard | 40ft standard |
|---|---|---|
| External length | 20 ft (6.06 m) | 40 ft (12.19 m) |
| External width | 8 ft (2.44 m) | 8 ft (2.44 m) |
| External height | 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m) | 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m) |
| Approx. internal volume | 33 m³ (1,170 cu ft) | 67 m³ (2,390 cu ft) |
These sizes come from the international container standards, which is why every standard box lines up and locks with the next.
Why choose standard shipping containers?
- Lowest cost per box: no special doors, roofs or machinery.
- Secure: steel on all sides with a lockable door set.
- Easy to find and resell: the most common container type worldwide.
When to choose something else
If you need more headroom, step up to 40ft high cube containers. For access at both ends, look at double door containers. For crane loading, see open top containers. Our guide to the types of shipping containers compares every design.
Condition and delivery
Pick new or one trip for long life and good looks, or used for budget storage; our one trip vs used guide explains the difference. All 40 foot standard units are also listed under 40ft standard containers. Read the delivery guide, then contact us to order standard shipping containers.
