20ft shipping container
The most popular size for storage where space is limited or the delivery route is more challenging.
- Approximately 6.06 metres long
- About 33 m³ capacity
- Easier to deliver and position
20ft vs 40ft shipping container
A 20ft container is compact and versatile; a 40ft container provides roughly twice the floor area and capacity. Compare size, payload, delivery and use before choosing.
Choose 20ft when access, a compact footprint and payload per cubic metre matter. Choose 40ft when you mainly need substantial storage capacity at one site.
40ft shipping container
Substantial storage in one container when site length and manoeuvring space are not constraints.
- Approximately 12.19 metres long
- About 67 m³ capacity
- Potentially lower purchase cost per cubic metre
20ft and 40ft side by side
These reference dimensions apply to standard Dry Van shipping containers. High Cube models are taller and provide more capacity.
| Feature | 20ft Dry Van | 40ft Dry Van |
|---|---|---|
| External dimensions (L × W × H) | 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m |
| Internal dimensions (L × W × H) | 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 m |
| Door opening (W × H) | 2.34 × 2.28 m | 2.34 × 2.28 m |
| Capacity | Approximately 33.2 m³ | Approximately 67.0 m³ |
| Tare weight | Approximately 2,050 kg | Approximately 3,420 kg |
| Payload | Approximately 28,430 kg | Approximately 27,060 kg |
| Required ground area | Approximately 14.8 m² | Approximately 29.7 m² |
| Usually best suited to | Compact storage, construction sites or regular relocation | High capacity, long items or central storage |
Dimensions and weights are reference values and can vary by manufacturer, production year and model. Always check the product specifications for the selected container.
Which size suits your situation?
Capacity is not the only deciding factor. Consider the site, stored goods and future use as well.
Choose 20ft where space is limited
A 20ft container is easier to position on smaller yards, construction sites and locations with limited turning or unloading space.
Choose 40ft for high-volume, lighter goods
A 40ft container provides almost twice the capacity, but not twice the payload. A 20ft model can be more practical for heavy goods.
Check access and the door opening
Measure the route, bends, height clearance, unloading space and clear space in front of the doors. A suitable footprint does not automatically mean delivery is possible.
Compare total costs
Include transport, placement, ground preparation and possible on-site relocation. The lowest cost per cubic metre is not always the lowest-cost solution for the site.
A 40ft container is approximately twice as long and provides almost twice the capacity and floor area. Standard Dry Van models have virtually the same width, height and door opening.
Frequently asked questions
Choosing 20ft or 40ft
Short answers about capacity, payload, placement and price differences.
View all frequently asked questions