Are you considering buying a 40 foot shipping container?
Before taking the plunge and investing in one, it’s important to have an understanding of what kind of size and dimensions to expect.
To help guide your decision making process, in this comprehensive post, I will outline some essential information on 40 foot shipping container dimensions, the standard height, width, and length measurements for a typical 20 foot cargo shipping container, as well as provide helpful tips on how to get the most out of these compact spaces.
40 Foot Shipping Container Dimensions and Sizes
| Container Type | External Dimensions (L x W x H) | Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) | Door Opening (W x H) | Tare Weight (lbs) | Payload Capacity (lbs) | Volume (cubic ft) |
| Standard (Dry) | 40′ x 8′ x 8’6″ (12.2m x 2.4m x 2.6m) | 39’5″ x 7’8″ x 7’10” (12.0m x 2.35m x 2.39m) | 7’8″ x 7’6″ (2.34m x 2.28m) | 8,380 (3,800 kg) | 58,930 (26,730 kg) | 2,390 (67.7 m³) |
| High Cube | 40′ x 8′ x 9’6″ (12.2m x 2.4m x 2.9m) | 39’5″ x 7’8″ x 8’10” (12.0m x 2.35m x 2.69m) | 7’8″ x 8’5″ (2.34m x 2.58m) | 8,775 (3,980 kg) | 58,540 (26,580 kg) | 2,700 (76.4 m³) |
| Open Top | 40′ x 8′ x 8’6″ (12.2m x 2.4m x 2.6m) | 39’5″ x 7’8″ x 7’10” (12.0m x 2.35m x 2.39m) | 7’8″ x 7’6″ (2.34m x 2.28m) | 8,490 (3,850 kg) | 58,820 (26,680 kg) | 2,390 (67.7 m³) |
| Reefer (Refrigerated) | 40′ x 8′ x 8’6″ (12.2m x 2.4m x 2.6m) | 37’11” x 7’6″ x 7’6″ (11.56m x 2.29m x 2.29m) | 7’5″ x 7’3″ (2.26m x 2.21m) | 9,590 (4,350 kg) | 57,720 (26,180 kg) | 2,040 (57.8 m³) |
| Insulated | 40′ x 8′ x 8’6″ (12.2m x 2.4m x 2.6m) | 39’3″ x 7’8″ x 7’9″ (11.96m x 2.35m x 2.37m) | 7’8″ x 7’6″ (2.34m x 2.28m) | 8,600 (3,900 kg) | 58,710 (26,630 kg) | 2,350 (66.5 |
40-Foot Shipping Container Types:
- Standard (Dry) Container
- High Cube Container
- Open Top Container
- Reefer (Refrigerated) Container
- Insulated Container
Common Uses of 40 Foot Shipping Containers
- General cargo transportation
- Furniture and household goods shipping
- Vehicle and automobile transportation
- Construction site storage
- Portable workshops and workspaces
- Pop-up retail stores and restaurants
- Temporary event spaces and venues
- Mobile medical clinics and laboratories
- Military and disaster relief operations
- Agriculture and farm storage
- Cold storage for perishable goods
- Art galleries and exhibition spaces
- Off-grid housing and living spaces
- Office spaces and meeting rooms
- Educational and training facilities
- Emergency shelters and housing
Considerations When Buying a 40-Foot Shipping Container:
- Container type
- Cargo requirements
- Weight capacity
- Door opening dimensions
- Interior dimensions
- Condition and quality
- New or used
- Climate control
- Security features
- Customization options
- Transportation methods
- Local regulations and permits
- Container availability
- Delivery and pick-up logistics
- Budget constraints
- Environmental impact
Customization Options for 40-Foot Shipping Containers:
- Insulation and climate control
- Interior partitions
- Shelving and storage systems
- Custom flooring
- Electrical and lighting installations
- Plumbing and water systems
- Windows and skylights
- Doors and access points
- Ventilation and air conditioning
- Exterior paint and branding
- Security features and locks
- Container stacking and joining
- Roofing and canopies
- Solar panel installations
- Accessibility features
FAQs
What is the difference between a standard 40-foot shipping container and a high cube container?
A high cube container is taller than a standard container, providing additional interior height. High cube containers are 9.5 feet tall externally, whereas standard containers are 8.5 feet tall.
Can I modify a 40-foot shipping container for residential or commercial use?
Yes, you can. In fact, shipping containers are increasingly being used for modular construction projects, including homes, offices, and retail spaces. They can be customized with insulation, windows, doors, and other features to create functional and comfortable spaces.
What type of cargo can be stored in a 40-foot shipping container?
A 40-foot shipping container can store a wide range of cargo, including vehicles, machinery, furniture, and large quantities of consumer goods. High cube containers are especially suitable for taller or bulkier items.
How do I maintain a 40-foot shipping container?
Regular inspections, cleaning, lubrication of door hinges and locks, prompt repairs, and proper storage on a level surface will help extend the lifespan and maintain the performance of your shipping container.