Metalwork on a container for modification

Container Dimensions

Q: What is the difference between outside size and inside size?

The outside dimension is the dimension you take into account when transporting, placing and obtaining permits. The inside dimension is the usable loading space, which is always smaller due to the wall thickness and, in the case of high cube and reefer containers, due to insulation. Always calculate the inside dimension when planning your cargo.

Q: Can a europallet fit the width of a container?

Yes. With a width of approximately 2352 mm, two europallets can be placed side by side in the width direction, with space left over for the door trims.

All sizes and weights of our containers at a glance

Which container size fits your cargo?

The correct container size determines whether your cargo fits in one go, what the transport costs per cubic meter, and whether the container fits within your permit or site layout. The following lists the outer dimensions, inner dimensions, door opening, and maximum load capacity of each size from our range, so you can calculate for yourself whether your cargo fits before requesting a quote.

Size	Extra sizes (L x W x H)	Inside dimensions (L x W x H)	Door opening (B x H)	Max. load capacity
10ft	2991 x 2438 x 2591 mm	2831 x 2352 x 2393 mm	2340 x 2280 mm	8,760 kg
20ft	6058 x 2438 x 2591 mm	5898 x 2352 x 2393 mm	2340 x 2280 mm	28,280 kg
40ft	12192 x 2438 x 2591 mm	12032 x 2352 x 2393 mm	2340 x 2280 mm	26,680 kg
40ft High Cube	12192 x 2438 x 2896 mm	12032 x 2352 x 2698 mm	2340 x 2585 mm	26,580 kg
45ft High Cube	13716 x 2438 x 2896 mm	13556 x 2352 x 2698 mm	2340 x 2585 mm	27,600 kg

All sizes come from the product pages of our containers and apply to standard steel sea containers. In the case of reefers, open top and flat rack containers, the internal dimensions and load capacity vary slightly due to the additional construction; these dimensions are listed on the product page for the respective container.

View our range

Frequently asked questions

Container sizes in practice

What is the difference between outside size and inside size?

The exterior dimension is the dimension you take into account when transporting, placing and licensing: how much space the container takes up on your premises or truck. The interior dimension is the usable loading space, always smaller due to the wall thickness and, in the case of high cube and reefer, due to insulation. Always calculate the interior dimension when planning your cargo.

What is the difference between a 40ft and a 40ft High Cube container?

A 40ft High Cube is 30.5 centimeters higher than a standard 40ft container (2896 mm versus 2591 mm outside height), which yields a significantly more load volume of 8 cubic feet. The maximum weight remains virtually unchanged: the extra height is intended for bulky, lightweight cargo, not for extra weight.

How much does an empty container weigh (tare)?

The tare weight is the maximum gross weight of the container minus the maximum load capacity from the table above. For a 20ft container this is approximately 2,200 kg, for a 40ft container approximately 3,800 kg. The exact tare weight is listed on the CSC label on the door of the specific container.

Can a europallet fit the width of a container?

Yes. With a width of approximately 2352 mm, two European pallets (each 800 x 1200 mm) can be stacked side by side in the width direction, with space left over for the door panels. If you are unsure about stacking your specific load, please contact us: we will calculate it for you based on the exact internal dimensions.