Shipping Container Dimensions and Storage Capacity: What Fits Inside?

Whether you're relocating across the country, ordering additional inventory for your business, or storing classic cars, it’s important to know how much you can fit inside a shipping container.

Standard Shipping Container Dimensions

20 Foot Standard Height Container

• External Dimensions: 20' L x 8' W x 8'6" H

• Internal Dimensions: 19'4" L x 7'9" W x 7'10" H

• Volume: Approximately 1,172 cubic feet (33.2 cubic meters)

• Tare Weight: Around 4,850 lbs (2,200 kg)

• Maximum Payload: Up to 61,000 lbs (27,600 kg)
  

40 Foot Standard Height Container

• External Dimensions: 40' L x 8' W x 8'6" H

• Internal Dimensions: 39'5" L x 7'8.5" W x 7'10" H

• Volume: Approximately 2,390 cubic feet (67.7 cubic meters)

• Tare Weight: Around 8,000 lbs (3,630 kg)

• Maximum Payload: Up to 59,000 lbs (26,700 kg)
  

High Cube Shipping Container Dimensions

If you need a little more headroom—literally—high cube containers might be the better option. These are the same length and width as standard containers but stand at 9’6” tall, giving you an extra foot of vertical storage.

20 Foot High Cube Container

• External Dimensions: 20' L x 8' W x 9'6" H

• Internal Dimensions: ~19'4" L x 7'9" W x 8'10" H

• Volume: Approximately 1,317 cubic feet (37.3 cubic meters)

• Tare Weight: ~5,180 lbs (2,350 kg)

• Maximum Payload: Around 60,000 lbs (27,200 kg)

These are less common than the 40’ high cubes but great for storing tall equipment or stackable inventory with low weight.

40 Foot High Cube Container

• External Dimensions: 40' L x 8' W x 9'6" H

• Internal Dimensions: ~39'5" L x 7'8.5" W x 8'10" H

• Volume: Approximately 2,694 cubic feet (76.3 cubic meters)

• Tare Weight: ~8,775 lbs (3,980 kg)

• Maximum Payload: Around 58,500 lbs (26,500 kg)

This is a favorite for international shipping of lightweight but bulky goods, or when shipping container conversions (like tiny homes or retail units) require more vertical space.

These sizes are standardized across the industry, meaning you’ll get the same fit whether you're shipping overseas or storing gear in your backyard.

Storage Capacity: What Can You Fit Inside?

So how much can you fit in a shipping container? The answer is—quite a lot. Here’s a breakdown of how much can fit in each size, from furniture to wine bottles.

20 Foot Standard Height Container or 40 Foot High Cube

Perfect for smaller moves or compact storage needs:

• Household Goods: Fits the contents of a 1–2 bedroom apartment—think beds, couches, appliances, and around 200–300 boxes.

• Vehicles: One standard car fits comfortably.

• Pallets: Up to 10 standard pallets.
  

40 Foot Standard Height Container or 40 Foot High Cube

Double the length means double the capacity—and way more flexibility:

• Household Goods: Holds a 2–3 bedroom home, including larger furniture and more boxes (400–600).

• Vehicles: Two standard cars or an SUV and extra items.

• Pallets: Up to 20 standard pallets.
  

Whether you're hauling a house full of furniture or fulfilling a major retail shipment, these shipping containers have you covered.

Tips for Maximizing Space in Your Shipping Container

Smart packing can make a world of difference in maximizing the space available:

• Efficient Packing: Disassemble large furniture and use same-size boxes when possible.

• Weight Distribution: Keep heavier items on the floor and spread the weight evenly across the base.

• Stack Strategically: Consider getting a high cube to make the most of vertical space.

• Protection Matters: Wrap items in blankets, use cushioning, and strap loads down to avoid damage in transit.

  Once you understand the size and capacity of shipping containers, you’ll see just how useful they can be for everything from storing inventory to moving your family’s belongings to your new home.

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