Shipping Container Dimensions Guide
Authoritative ISO standard sizes for 20ft, 40ft, High Cube, and specialty cargo units for 2026 global trade. Complete list of 17 ISO types.
Shipping container dimensions play a critical role in global logistics, helping shippers, freight forwarders, and importers optimize loading and reduce costs. All modern intermodal containers adhere to ISO standards (primarily ISO 668 and ISO 1496).
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Visual comparison of 20ft Standard, 40ft High Cube, and Reefer containers.
ISO Standard Container Sizes (2026)
| Container Type | Internal (L×W×H) | Volume | Tare | Payload |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20' Standard Dry | 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 33.2 m³ | 2,300kg | 28,180kg |
| 40' Standard Dry | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m | 67.7 m³ | 3,750kg | 26,730kg |
| 40' High Cube | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.70m | 76.3 m³ | 3,940kg | 28,600kg |
| 45' High Cube | 13.56m × 2.35m × 2.70m | 86.1 m³ | 4,800kg | 27,700kg |
| 20' Open Top | 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.35m | 32.5 m³ | 2,350kg | 28,130kg |
| 40' Open Top | 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.35m | 66.4 m³ | 3,850kg | 26,630kg |
| 20' Flatrack | 5.94m × 2.35m × 2.35m | - | 2,730kg | 31,200kg |
| 40' Flatrack | 12.06m × 2.37m × 1.96m | - | 4,900kg | 40,000kg |
| 20' Reefer | 5.45m × 2.29m × 2.27m | 28.3 m³ | 3,080kg | 27,400kg |
| 40' Reefer HC | 11.58m × 2.29m × 2.50m | 67.3 m³ | 4,800kg | 29,200kg |
| 20' Tank | Length: 6.06m (ext) | 26,000L | 3,600kg | 30,400kg |
Standard Dry Containers (20' & 40')
The workhorse of global trade, ideal for heavy, dense cargo or general shipments of dry goods. Known as General Purpose (GP) containers.
20' Standard
Perfect for machinery, spare parts, and dense commodities like copper, scrap, or bagged goods.
40' Standard
Best for retail goods, furniture, and large volume electronics. Standard length for ocean freight.
High Cube Containers (40' & 45')
Provides an extra 30cm (1 foot) height, maximizing volume for lighter, bulky cargo. Essential for modern retail logistics.
40' HC
The industry standard for garments-on-hangers, light furniture, and consumer electronics.
45' HC
Maximizes cubic capacity. Often used in regional loops or specialized long-haul ocean routes.
Open Top Containers
Designed for cargo that is over-height or requires loading by crane through the top. Uses a removable tarpaulin roof.
- Features: Removable top bows and tarpaulin (rag-top). Tiltable door header for easy loading.
- Ideal Cargo: Large machinery, industrial boilers, stone slabs, and bulky timber.
Flat Rack & Platform Units
For heavy-lift and out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo that won't fit in standard containers. No side walls.
Flat Rack (Fixed/Collapsible)
End walls can be folded to allow for stacking when empty or for carrying extra-long cargo.
Platform
Simply a heavy-duty reinforced floor for project cargo, yachts, or oversized engines.
Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers
Equipped with an active cooling unit to maintain temperatures from -30°C to +30°C. Essential for cold chain integrity.
- Internal Design: Stainless steel or aluminum walls. T-bar flooring for air circulation.
- Applications: Fruits (controlled atmosphere), pharmaceuticals, flowers, and frozen seafood.
Specialized: Bulk, Tank & Pallet Wide
Expert equipment designed for non-standard commodities and specific distribution networks.
20' ISO Tank
Specifically for liquids, chemicals, and food-grade oils. Integrated within a standard 20ft frame.
Pallet Wide (PW)
Internal width of 2.45m fits two 1.2m Euro-pallets side-by-side perfectly, reducing cargo movement.
Pro Tip: Selection Strategy
Selecting the correct container can reduce freight costs by 10-30%. Always calculate your total CBM and pallet footprint before booking. Use our CBM Calculator to find the best fit.