Shipping Container Sizes, When it comes to shipping goods internationally, shipping containers are the unsung heroes of global trade. These large, durable containers come in various sizes, catering to different shipping needs, whether you’re transporting household goods, machinery, or bulk materials. In this article, we will explore the most common shipping container sizes, their specifications, and how to choose the right size for your needs.
Common Shipping Container Sizes
Shipping containers are standardized to make international transport easier and more efficient. The two most widely used sizes for containers are the 20-foot and 40-foot containers, but other variations exist to accommodate different requirements.
1. 20-Foot Shipping Container (20ft)
The 20-foot shipping container, also known as a TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit), is one of the most common and versatile sizes in the industry. It’s ideal for small businesses or individuals looking to ship a moderate amount of goods.
Dimensions:
- External Length: 20 feet (6.1 meters)
- External Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
- External Height: 8.5 feet (2.59 meters)
- Internal Length: 19.4 feet (5.9 meters)
- Internal Width: 7.7 feet (2.35 meters)
- Internal Height: 7.9 feet (2.39 meters)
Capacity:
- Cubic Capacity: 1,170 cubic feet (33.2 cubic meters)
- Maximum Payload: Approximately 55,000 pounds (25,000 kg)
This size is often used for shipping personal items, furniture, electronics, or smaller bulk items. It’s a popular choice for international relocations and businesses with moderate shipping needs.
2. 40-Foot Shipping Container (40ft)
The 40-foot container, or FEU (Forty-foot Equivalent Unit), is the largest and most commonly used size for bulk cargo and large shipments. It is well-suited for both residential and commercial use.
Dimensions:
- External Length: 40 feet (12.19 meters)
- External Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
- External Height: 8.5 feet (2.59 meters)
- Internal Length: 39.5 feet (12.03 meters)
- Internal Width: 7.7 feet (2.35 meters)
- Internal Height: 7.9 feet (2.39 meters)
Capacity:
- Cubic Capacity: 2,390 cubic feet (67.6 cubic meters)
- Maximum Payload: Approximately 61,000 pounds (27,500 kg)
The 40-foot container offers more space and is generally used by businesses involved in large-scale shipping or those transporting heavy goods that need more storage.
3. 40-Foot High Cube Container
The 40-foot high cube container is similar to the standard 40-foot container, but it has an extra foot of height, providing more vertical space for taller items.
Dimensions:
- External Length: 40 feet (12.19 meters)
- External Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
- External Height: 9.5 feet (2.89 meters)
- Internal Length: 39.5 feet (12.03 meters)
- Internal Width: 7.7 feet (2.35 meters)
- Internal Height: 8.9 feet (2.7 meters)
Capacity:
- Cubic Capacity: 2,700 cubic feet (76.5 cubic meters)
- Maximum Payload: Approximately 61,000 pounds (27,500 kg)
This extra height is ideal for shipping taller goods or items that require additional clearance, such as machinery or large furniture.
4. 10-Foot Shipping Container
While less common, the 10-foot shipping container is used for specialized or smaller shipments. It’s suitable for small businesses or individuals who need to transport smaller amounts of goods without the extra space of a 20-foot container.
Dimensions:
- External Length: 10 feet (3.05 meters)
- External Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
- External Height: 8.5 feet (2.59 meters)
- Internal Length: 9.5 feet (2.89 meters)
- Internal Width: 7.7 feet (2.35 meters)
- Internal Height: 7.9 feet (2.39 meters)
Capacity:
- Cubic Capacity: 500 cubic feet (14.2 cubic meters)
- Maximum Payload: Approximately 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg)
This container is often used for smaller commercial shipments, personal moves, or temporary storage solutions.
Choosing the Right Shipping Container Size
When selecting the appropriate shipping container size, several factors should be considered:
- Type of Goods: What are you shipping? Larger or more irregularly shaped items may require a 40-foot container, while smaller or more compact goods may fit in a 20-foot or 10-foot container.
- Budget: Larger containers cost more, so choosing the right size is essential to avoid unnecessary expenses. Make sure to calculate how much space your goods require and choose a container that provides enough room without going overboard.
- Distance and Shipping Method: If you’re shipping goods over long distances, opting for a larger container may help optimize the transportation cost, as containers are often charged by volume or weight.
- Storage Space: If you’re planning to store the container at a warehouse or facility before shipping, make sure that the size fits the space available.
Conclusion
Understanding shipping container sizes is crucial for efficient and cost-effective shipping. Whether you’re sending a small load across the ocean or moving a large shipment of goods, selecting the right size container ensures that your items are transported securely and at the best price. Always consider your specific shipping needs, cargo volume, and budget before making a final decision.
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