How Wide, Big, and Heavy Is a Shipping Container?
How Wide, Big, and Heavy Is a Shipping Container?
Learn how wide, big, and heavy shipping containers are. Includes size comparisons, weights, and what fits in each container type.
How Wide Is a Shipping Container?
If you’re wondering how wide shipping containers are, the answer is simple:
All standard ISO shipping containers have a uniform exterior width of 8 feet (2.44 meters).
The interior width is about 7 feet 8 inches (2.34 meters), accounting for the steel walls.
This applies to 20ft, 40ft, and high cube containers alike.
Why this matters: The 8ft width allows shipping containers to travel by truck, train, and ship worldwide. It’s a global standard.
Shipping Container Sizes Compared
Let’s look at the most common container sizes, including both standard and high cube versions:
| Container Type | Exterior (L × W × H) | Interior (L × W × H) | Capacity (Cubic Ft) |
| 20ft Standard | 20′ × 8′ × 8′6″ | ~19′4″ × 7′8″ × 7′10″ | ~1,172 ft³ |
| 20ft High Cube | 20′ × 8′ × 9′6″ | ~19′4″ × 7′8″ × 8′10″ | ~1,320 ft³ |
| 40ft Standard | 40′ × 8′ × 8′6″ | ~39′4″ × 7′8″ × 7′10″ | ~2,389 ft³ |
| 40ft High Cube | 40′ × 8′ × 9′6″ | ~39′4″ × 7′8″ × 8′10″ | ~2,694 ft³ |
Need more container info? Check out our Container Types page to compare cargo-worthy (CW), wind and water tight (WWT), and one-trip containers.
How Much Does a Shipping Container Weigh?
Knowing a container’s weight is essential for transport, permits, and loading.
Here’s a breakdown of empty (tare) and maximum weights:
| Container Type | Tare Weight (Empty) | Max Gross Weight | Max Payload |
| 20ft Standard | ~4,900 lbs (2,223 kg) | 52,800 lbs (23,950 kg) | ~47,900 lbs |
| 20ft High Cube | ~5,072 lbs (2,300 kg) | 52,800 lbs | ~47,700 lbs |
| 40ft Standard | ~8,377 lbs (3,800 kg) | 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg) | ~58,823 lbs |
| 40ft High Cube | ~8,820 lbs (4,000 kg) | 67,200 lbs | ~58,380 lbs |
Need info on delivery access or weight limits? Visit our Delivery Guidelines to prepare for your container drop-off.
What Can You Fit Inside?
Use cases vary based on size. Here are real-world examples of what fits:
20ft Standard
- 1–2 bedroom home’s contents
- Compact car, ATV, or motorcycles
- Tools, equipment, small business stock
20ft High Cube
Everything above, plus extra height for:
-
- Shelving
- Insulation
- Standing workspace or vertical storage
40ft & 40ft High Cube
- Full 3–4 bedroom home
- Large office storage
- Pallets, racking, inventory for resale
- Small container home or conversion project
FAQ: Shipping Container Dimensions & Weight
Q: Are all shipping containers 8 feet wide?
A: Yes. 8 feet (2.44 meters) is the standard width for all ISO shipping containers, regardless of length or height.
Q: What’s the difference between high cube and standard containers?
A: High cube containers are 1 foot taller (9’6”) than standard containers (8’6”), offering more vertical space inside.
Q: How much does a 20ft shipping container weigh?
A: A standard 20ft container weighs about 4,900 lbs empty. The high cube version weighs slightly more—around 5,072 lbs.
Q: How much weight can I load into a 40ft shipping container?
A: A 40ft container can carry up to about 58,000 lbs of cargo (around 29 tons), depending on local transport laws and what you’re loading.
Q: Can I put a shipping container on my property?
A: In most cases, yes. Just make sure you have enough space (at least 60ft of clearance for delivery), and check your local zoning rules.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the exact size, width, and weight of a shipping container helps you:
- Choose the right fit for your project
- Avoid delivery issues
- Maximize your storage or transport space
- Stay compliant with weight limits and permits
Still unsure what size works best?
Request a Quote—we’re happy to help you find the right container for your needs. Or check out our more in depth explanation here.