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.

Frequently asked questions
Container sizes in practice
What is the difference between outside size and inside size?
De buitenmaat is de maat waarmee u rekening houdt bij transport, plaatsing en vergunningen: hoeveel ruimte de container op uw terrein of vrachtwagen inneemt. De binnenmaat is de bruikbare laadruimte, altijd kleiner door de wanddikte en, bij high cube and reefer, door isolatie. Reken bij het plannen van uw lading altijd met de binnenmaat.
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.

Question about container sizes?
Edward Koudijzer
Manager Trading & Leasing
Ask us about dimensions, weight or load capacity; we would be happy to work with you.
edward.koudijzer@rcc-containers.nl +31102632336Request a quote or get in touch?
Which size suits your situation?
Are you unsure between two sizes, or does your cargo not quite fit? Our team will calculate it with you and advise which container is best suited.
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