20 ft vs 40 ft containers: dimensions and choosing

01

Check the available space inside and the doors

The catalog table shows the external dimensions and prices of the models offered. To plan your storage, also ask for the internal measurements and door opening of the container you'll buy. The figures below are examples of standard models: they help you compare, but don't guarantee the measurements of every container.

Both sizes have a similar width. The 40-foot mainly adds length, not double the room to move side by side. The choice between standard and High Cube is about height. A longer container doesn't solve a problem of a low door or lack of height inside.

02

List your belongings and the ones you'll take out often

Note the dimensions, weight, and quantity of the items, then how often you'll take them out. Identify what stacks, what must stay on the floor or upright, and items too long for a 20-foot. Also measure packaging, supports, and anything sticking out: all of that takes up space.

Then draw the rows and the aisle for moving equipment. A stock that stays in place for several months isn't stored the same way as items you take out every day. Don't assume the same fill percentage applies to every load: the space you need depends on your items, what you can stack, and the access you need to keep.

03

Which size fits these three situations?

For a team's tools, start by sketching the shelves and walkways in a 20-foot. Check that rolling equipment fits through and that everyday tools stay easy to reach. If the stock doesn't fit or needs a longer space without a divider, look at a 40-foot. The site also has to allow delivery and placement.

Eight-meter parts that must stay in one piece won't fit in the roughly 5.90 m inside a standard 20-foot. A 40-foot can be a solution. Still check the door, the loading route, and the supports under the items. You also need to check the loading equipment and the weight the floor can carry.

For two teams on different sites, two 20-foot containers can be more practical than one 40-foot. Each team will have its stock on site, even if the big container seems cheaper per square meter. Ask for quotes with delivery and placement at the actual planned locations.

04

One 40-foot or two 20-foot: one space or two separate storage areas?

A 40-foot gives you one space with no divider. Two 20-foot containers give you two storage areas, each with its own doors and shelving. Adding up the volumes doesn't create one big room: items must fit and stay inside each container. This separation can be handy for several teams or activities.

Two small spots don't necessarily replace the space for a 40-foot. On site, also keep room to open the doors, move around, and unload. Check that the containers won't block an access route, a walkway, or equipment you'll need later.

05

Compare prices for equivalent type, condition, and services

Compare prices for containers of the same type and condition. Between a new 20-foot and a used 40-foot, length isn't the only difference. Also look at the appearance, doors, and equipment you need. The prices shown are indicative and exclude taxes, with transport and unloading extra.

Ask for the total for each option: containers, transport, unloading, options, work, and taxes. Have the number of trips and how they're organized confirmed. Two containers do not necessarily mean two identical delivery trips. If a price is missing, ask for it before deciding that one option is cheaper.

06

Don't confuse volume, weight, and height

A 40-foot offers more volume, but it can't necessarily carry double the load of a 20-foot. For heavy materials or machinery, check the weight and how it will be distributed. Have the limits of the container, transport, and lifting equipment confirmed by the relevant professionals. The number of cubic meters doesn't tell you these limits.

A High Cube gives you extra height. Doors on the side or at both ends make certain access easier. For an office or a refrigerated unit, also look at the equipment and layout. So choose the length, height, doors, and condition according to your needs: size alone doesn't answer every question.