Shipping containers come in various standard sizes and configurations. Below is a detailed overview of the most commonly used container types, their dimensions, maximum payload, and internal capacity.
🚢 20ft General Purpose Container (20GP)
External Dimensions: 5.89m × 2.35m × 2.39m (20ft × 8ft × 8ft6in)
Internal Dimensions: 5.69m × 2.15m × 2.19m
Typical Maximum Gross Weight: 21 tons
Internal Volume: Approx. 28 CBM (cubic meters)
Usage: Suitable for heavy cargo such as metals, machinery, or dense raw materials.
🚢 40ft General Purpose Container (40GP)
External Dimensions: 12.09m × 2.35m × 2.39m (40ft × 8ft × 8ft6in)
Internal Dimensions: 11.89m × 2.15m × 2.19m
Typical Maximum Gross Weight: 24.5 tons
Internal Volume: Approx. 58 CBM
Usage: Commonly used for light and voluminous goods.
🚢 40ft High Cube Container (40HC)
External Dimensions: 12.09m × 2.35m × 2.69m (40ft × 8ft × 9ft6in)
Internal Dimensions: 11.89m × 2.15m × 2.49m
Typical Maximum Gross Weight: 22 tons
Internal Volume: Approx. 68 CBM
Usage: Ideal for lightweight cargo that requires extra height.
🚢 45ft High Cube Container (45HC)
Internal Dimensions: 13.58m × 2.34m × 2.70m
Typical Maximum Gross Weight: 29 tons
Internal Volume: Approx. 86 CBM
Usage: Best for large-volume cargo and intercontinental transport.
📐 Standard Container Internal Capacities Overview
| Container Type | Internal Dimensions (m) | Gross Weight (tons) | Volume (CBM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20GP | 5.69 × 2.13 × 2.18 | 17.5 | 24–26 |
| 40GP | 11.8 × 2.13 × 2.18 | 22 | 54 |
| 40HQ | 11.8 × 2.13 × 2.72 | 22 | 68 |
| 45HQ | 13.58 × 2.34 × 2.71 | 29 | 86 |
| 20OT (Open Top) | 5.89 × 2.32 × 2.31 | 20 | 31.5 |
| 40OT (Open Top) | 12.01 × 2.33 × 2.15 | 30.4 | 65 |
| 20FR (Flat Rack) | 5.85 × 2.23 × 2.15 | 23 | 28 |
| 40FR (Flat Rack) | 12.05 × 2.12 × 1.96 | 36 | 50 |
⚙️ Note: Container internal volume and payload limits may slightly vary depending on the shipping line and specific container manufacturer.
💡 Practical Tips
Heavy cargo → choose 20GP for better weight distribution and easier handling.
Light bulky cargo → choose 40HC or 45HC for maximum space efficiency.
Over-height cargo → use Open Top Containers (OT).
Machinery and oversized goods → use Flat Rack Containers (FR).
