Standard shipping container
Suitable for most storage and transport uses when extra height is not required.
- External height about 2.59 m
- Internal height about 2.39 m
- Often lower purchase price
High Cube vs standard shipping container
A High Cube shipping container has the same length and width as the standard model but is approximately 30 centimetres taller externally. This provides more internal height, a taller door opening and extra capacity.
Choose standard when normal storage height is sufficient and total height or budget matters. Choose High Cube for tall goods, racking, machinery or conversions where extra working and installation space is valuable.
High Cube shipping container
More vertical space without a larger footprint at the same container length.
- External height about 2.90 m
- Internal height about 2.70 m
- Taller door and more capacity
Standard and High Cube side by side
Height is the main difference. Length and width remain the same for an equal nominal size.
| Feature | Standard Dry Van | High Cube |
|---|---|---|
| External height | Approximately 2.59 m | Approximately 2.90 m |
| Internal height | Approximately 2.39 m | Approximately 2.70 m |
| Door-opening height | Approximately 2.28 m | Approximately 2.58 m |
| Additional internal height | — | Approximately 30.5 cm |
| 20ft capacity | Approximately 33 m³ | Approximately 37 m³ |
| 40ft capacity | Approximately 67 m³ | Approximately 76 m³ |
| Footprint at the same length | Same | Same |
| Usually best suited to | General storage and transport | Tall goods, racking, machinery and conversions |
Dimensions and capacity are rounded reference values and can vary slightly by manufacturer and model. Check the product specifications and measure the entire access route.
When is High Cube the better choice?
Extra height is most valuable when you can use it and the site can accommodate the total height.
Tall goods and racking
The taller door opening and internal space make it easier to place tall pallets, machinery, cabinets and racking.
Conversions and technical services
For office, workshop or technical uses, High Cube leaves more room for insulation, ceiling finishes, lighting, ventilation and service runs.
More capacity on the same footprint
At the same length and width, High Cube provides extra cubic metres without requiring more ground area.
Check total height
Measure gates, trees, cables, eaves and the transport route. The additional height can determine whether delivery and placement are possible.
A High Cube is approximately 30.5 centimetres taller externally than a standard Dry Van: about 2.90 metres versus 2.59 metres. Its internal space and door opening are also about 30 centimetres taller.
Frequently asked questions
Choosing High Cube or standard
Short answers about height, capacity, delivery and use cases.
View all frequently asked questions