Discover the differences between shipping container offices and office trailers. See which option best suits your business in cost, reliability, and more.
August 18, 2020
Standardizing shipping container size and dimensions helps things run more smoothly for your business. Product selection is made simpler and transportation is made easier.
ISO standard shipping containers come in sizes ranging from 10ft to 40ft. Shipping container dimensions can be found on the container registration number. The container owner can also find this information on the container identification number.
These standard sizes and specifications can be applied to similar storage solutions, including reefer containers, tank containers, conex boxes, and more.
In this guide to shipping container dimensions, we will introduce you to everything you need to know to find the right container for your business storage or jobsite office space applications.
Shipping containers are built for heavy-duty work. They are designed to be lifted vertically, transported across long distances via cargo ship, freight or rail transportation, or tilt bed truck. These standard containers can also withstand harsh weather conditions when stationed outside. For these reasons, containers are usually made of durable corrugated thick steel (or, in some cases, aluminum). Containers for shipping carry ISO certification that attests to the use of standard shipping container dimensions.
These rectangular boxes are meant to be reused. That’s why they are made of tough metal that is designed to withstand heavy wear and tear.
The corners of a shipping container need maximum strength as they are engaged by the twist locks of a container lifting crane. The corner castings of the container are its point of strength.
The dimensions of a shipping container are based on standards that ensure there are no issues during shipping. ISO sets the standard for shipping container dimensions.
Ranging from 10 ft. to 40 ft. in length, you can use these units for a variety of products and purposes, based on their dimensions and the space available at your location. Take a look at commonly available sizes of shipping containers and related measurements below.
These containers are commonly used for shipping general-purpose cargo, and they are a popular choice when it comes to onsite storage and jobsite offices. Made from strong corten steel, these 40-foot shipping containers have an internal storage capacity of 67.6 cubic meters or 2.387 cubic feet.
Exterior Dimensions:
Interior Dimensions:
These dimensions also apply to our 40’ double-door shipping containers.
Container Application | The 20 ft. standard shipping container is for heavy cargo, machinery, and commodities. | ||
---|---|---|---|
Container Dimensions | Width | Height | Length |
Door opening in feet | 7ft 9in | 7ft 6in | - |
Door opening in meters | 2.34m | 2.28m | - |
Interior dimensions in feet | 7ft 9in | 7ft 10in | 19ft 4in |
Interior dimensions in meters | 2.35m | 2.39m | 5.9m |
Exterior dimensions in feet | 8ft | 8ft 6in | 20ft |
Exterior dimensions in meters | 2.44m | 2.60m | 6.06m |
Container Weight | Max Gross | Tare | Max Payload |
Weight in lbs | 52,910 lbs | 4,982 lbs | 47,928 lbs |
Weight in kg | 24,000 kg | 2,260 kg | 21,740 kg |
Weight in ton | 26 ton | 2 ton | 24 ton |
Container volume | In CFT | In CBM | - |
Load Capacity | 1,172 cf | 33.2 cm | - |
These containers are useful for projects where you don’t need 40 feet containers but can’t do with smaller sizes either. With a storage capacity of 192 square feet, these 24-foot containers are great for onsite storage requirements.
Exterior Dimensions:
Interior Dimensions:
Container Application | The 24 ft. standard shipping container is for mid-size cargo and service providers like plumbers | ||
---|---|---|---|
Container Dimensions | Width | Height | Length |
Door opening in feet | 7ft 9in | 7ft 6in | - |
Door opening in meters | 2.34m | 2.28m | - |
Interior dimensions in feet | 7ft 8in | 7ft 10in | 23ft 5in |
Interior dimensions in meters | 2.33m | 2.39m | 7.13m |
Exterior dimensions in feet | 8ft | 8ft 6in | 24ft |
Exterior dimensions in meters | 2.43m | 2.60m | 7.31m |
Container Weight | Max Gross | Tare | Max Payload |
Weight in lbs | 53,410 lbs | 5,842 lbs | 48,428 lbs |
Weight in kg | 24,226 kg | 2,650 kg | 21,966 kg |
Weight in ton | 27 ton | 3 ton | 24.21 ton |
Container volume | In CFT | In CBM | - |
Load Capacity | 1,391 cf | 39.3 cm | - |
These containers are ideal for small or medium-sized projects. 20-foot shipping containers are perfect for industrial or commercial storage requirements and can even be converted into onsite offices or guard shacks.
Exterior Dimensions:
Interior Dimensions:
These dimensions also apply to our 20’ double-door shipping containers.
Container Application | The 20 ft. standard shipping container is for heavy cargo, machinery and commodities. | ||
Container Dimensions | Width | Height | Length |
Door opening in feet | 7ft 9in | 7ft 6in | - |
Door opening in meters | 2.34m | 2.28m | - |
Interior dimensions in feet | 7ft 9in | 7ft 10in | 19ft 4in |
Interior dimensions in meters | 2.35m | 2.39m | 5.9m |
Exterior dimensions in feet | 8ft | 8ft 6in | 20ft |
Exterior dimensions in meters | 2.44m | 2.60m | 6.06m |
Container Weight | Max Gross | Tare | Max Payload |
Weight in lbs | 52,910 lbs | 4,982 lbs | 47,928 lbs |
Weight in kg | 24,000 kg | 2,260 kg | 21,740 kg |
Weight in ton | 26 ton | 2 ton | 24 ton |
Container volume | In CFT | In CBM | - |
Load Capacity | 1,172 cf | 33.2 cm | - |
The smallest standard shipping container, these units are perfect for confined spaces. With 80 square feet of storage capacity, these 10-foot containers can fit into parking spaces or driveways effortlessly. Ideal for small businesses or organizations looking for storage solutions.
Exterior Dimensions:
Interior Dimensions:
Container Application |
The 10 ft. standard shipping container is for limited space stores and retail malls. |
||
Container Dimensions |
Width |
Height |
Length |
Door opening in feet |
7ft 9in |
7ft 6in |
- |
Door opening in meters |
2.34m |
2.28m |
- |
Interior dimensions in feet |
7ft 9in |
7ft 10in |
9ft 3in |
Interior dimensions in meters |
2.35m |
2.39m |
2.84m |
Exterior dimensions in feet |
8ft |
8ft 6in |
10ft |
Exterior dimensions in meters |
2.44m |
2.59m |
2.99m |
Container Weight |
Max Gross |
Tare |
Max Payload |
Weight in lbs |
22,046 lbs |
2,204 lbs |
35,000 lbs |
Weight in kg |
10,000 kg |
1,000 kg |
15, 875 kg |
Weight in ton |
11 ton |
1ton |
17ton |
Container volume |
In CFT |
In CBM |
- |
Load Capacity |
563cf |
15.95cm |
- |
Shipping containers are multi-purpose storage containers that can double up as office spaces as well. Here are some unique features of these containers that make them very useful for commercial storage.
Weather-Resistant – These shipping containers are made of durable industry-grade, corrosion-resistant steel, making them weather-resistant. These storage containers can withstand harsh weather conditions outside and can resist wind and water.
Monocoque Body and Security - Because of its monocoque construction, the outer walls carry a major part of the stress. Apart from the strong structure, the shipping containers have lockable door handles and come equipped with a high-security hasp lock to deter theft and vandalism.
Easy to transport – Shipping containers are designed for storage - hence they have forklift pockets designed to facilitate movement. They also have shelf or pipe rack options for organized storage.
Scalable – Shipping containers are modular in nature, making them easily stackable and customizable. This makes them a perfect alternative to traditional storage and transport.
If you are interested in renting or buying used shipping containers, we believe we can offer the best solutions for various kinds of businesses. Here’s why -
Understanding your storage needs and choosing a container size that will be efficient for your business is key. Connect with Mobile Modular Portable Storage to find out more details or talk to our specialists and find the ideal portable storage container for your business.
Enter your email address to subscribe to the blog and receive the notification of new posts by email.
Stay tuned for upcoming emails with valuable content that we hope will enhance your experience with our brand.
Both Pardot and mg360 form submissions failed.