How to choose the size of a shipping container?

Any type and any type of shipping containers are ideal for transportation and as stationary storage. Whether the main purpose will be transportation, storage or “for construction or modification” purpose, we must pay special attention to the dimensions of shipping, storage containers.

You can find all types of containers, their sizes and technical specifications on our website. Below you will find information to help you decide on the type and dimensions of the container.

Dimensions of containers and their units of measurement

Before buying, you should know that the main unit in which the size of “cans” (containers) is measured is TEU. Size 1 TEU corresponds to a standard 20 – foot “can” (6 meter long), and 40 – foot units are “cans” corresponding to size 2 TEU.

Simplifying the units, we can also give the official dimensions of shipping containers in cubic meters, square meters and capacity converted to Euro-pallets.

Sea container size – the most commonly sold containers their dimensions

Below is an overview of the most popular containers and their dimensions:

1. The statement opens with a 3-meter, 10-foot container. The basic dimensions of the container are 2,991 mm in length, 2,438 mm in width and 2,591 mm in height.
2. Another available size for a shipping container is a 6-meter, 20-footcontainer. The basic dimensions are 6,058 mm long, 2,438 mm wide and 2,591 mm high.
3. Another container often chosen by customers is the 12-meter, 40-foot unit. Its size is 12,192 mm long, 2,438 mm wide and 2,896 mm high.

* The list presented here includes the most common storage containers chosen by customers. You can also find the types of shipping containers and the dimensions of each shipping container on our site in the corresponding category.

Dimension of a shipping container – what is necessary to choose the size of a container?

To properly choose the size of a shipping container, we need to know:

• What type of goods will be transported,
• What is its weight,
• How much free space in the container we need to plan.

Based on the above information, we can choose the type of container (stationary or transport), and then adjust its dimensions to suit our needs.

Which container should I choose for a stationary warehouse?

If the “can” was purchased for stationary storage, based on the dimensions of the shipping container, a suitable place should be prepared.

If you plan to store a large amount of heavy goods, it is recommended to perform leveling and establish a minimum of 4 support points for 20 – foot units. For 40 – foot “cans” it is recommended to support a minimum of 6 points and more. This is due to the fact that the frame of a 40 – foot container, with uneven distribution of cargo can deform, which can even translate into the inability to close the container gate.

Which container to choose for transportation?

If the “can” was purchased for transportation purposes, our task is to fix the cargo inside, otherwise known as “stowing.” The process of dunnage involves arranging the cargo, fixing moving parts and objects, and filling empty spaces within the container. The main purpose of dunnage is to avoid damage by moving items, loading the goods in such a way as to maintain the stability of the unit, taking into account the order of unloading.

Equipment or items that help in stowing containers include: pallets, strap lashings, ropes, diagonal and cross beams, spreader frames, air cushions, nets, and anti-slip sheets or mats. The stowage components are the same regardless of the size of the shipping container.

Transport of the selected container vs. container dimension

The next step, having already selected a container, will be its transportation. The vast majority of “cans” are transported by road. Regulations allow a maximum load capacity of road vehicles of up to 2 TEU. Knowing the dimensions of the shipping container, we can plan the number of cars needed for transport.

If you want to buy, keep in mind that one of the main factors affecting the price is the dimensions of the shipping containers, their technical condition and age.

We invite all interested parties to contact.