20ft shipping container
The 20ft shipping container is the most sought-after size on the Czech market — and it is no coincidence. With its six meters in length, it offers an ideal balance between space, price, and practical usability. Whether you are looking for a secure garden storage, a mobile workshop, or planning to transport goods, a 20ft shipping container represents a universal solution that adapts to almost any scenario.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about a 20ft container — from exact dimensions through types and price ranges to the specific procedure for purchasing and transport. We base it on current data for 2026, real offers on the Czech market, and many years of experience selling shipping containers.
Dimensions of a 20ft Shipping Container: External and Internal Parameters
Dimensions are the fundamental building block of every decision. Standardization according to ISO 668 ensures that a 20ft container always has the same external dimensions — minor deviations in the order of millimeters may occur only in internal dimensions depending on the manufacturer and age.
Standard 20′ Container (General Purpose / DV)
The most common variant you will encounter on the market. It is designated as 20′ GP (General Purpose) or 20′ DV (Dry Van).
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| External length | 6,058 mm |
| External width | 2,438 mm |
| External height | 2,591 mm |
| Internal length | 5,898 mm |
| Internal width | 2,352 mm |
| Internal height | 2,393 mm |
| Volume | approximately 33.2 m³ |
| Tare weight | 2,200–2,400 kg |
| Maximum payload | 28,000–28,200 kg |
| Maximum gross weight | 30,480 kg |
| Euro pallet capacity | 11 pcs |
20′ High Cube Container: Dimensions and Volume
For situations where you need more height, there is the High Cube (HC) variant. It is identical in length and width but offers 30 cm more headroom.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| External height | 2,896 mm |
| Internal height | 2,698 mm |
| Volume | approximately 37.4 m³ |
| Tare weight | 2,300–2,500 kg |
Practical tip: If you plan to work standing up inside the container, install shelving up to the ceiling, or store bulkier items, pay extra for High Cube. The difference in volume is a full 4.2 m³ — that is like adding a small bathroom.
Types of 20ft Containers by Condition: New, Used, Retired
This is a decision that will fundamentally affect your satisfaction and your wallet. Let us break down each category in detail.
New One-Trip Container
A container that has made a single voyage — from the factory in Asia to Europe with cargo. After unloading, it is sold as “one-trip.” Practically speaking, it is a new container: no corrosion, no odor, with an undamaged floor and functional sealing. Ideal for conversions into living spaces, offices, or representative retail stands.
Indicative price (2026): 60,000–85,000 CZK excluding VAT
Used Cargo Worthy (CW) Container
A fully functional container with valid CSC certification for maritime transport. It bears signs of wear — minor scratches, surface corrosion, worn paint — but it is structurally completely sound. The floor holds, the doors seal, the locks work.
Indicative price (2026): 35,000–50,000 CZK excluding VAT
Used Wind and Watertight (WWT)
A container that no longer meets the strict standards for maritime transport but is still watertight and wind-resistant. Absolutely sufficient for storage. It may have more visible cosmetic defects, but it should not leak.
Indicative price (2026): 30,000–40,000 CZK excluding VAT
Retired As-Is Container
A container at the end of its service life. It is sold “as is” — without warranties. It may have holes in the roof, damaged flooring, non-functional doors. Suitable as a raw container, cheap tool shed, or a base for construction modifications where more extensive renovation is expected.
Indicative price (2026): 20,000–35,000 CZK excluding VAT
Comparison of Container Conditions at a Glance
| Condition | Certification | Suitable for | Service life | Price (excl. VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One-trip | CSC (5 years) | Conversions, representative purposes | 20+ years | 60,000–85,000 CZK |
| Cargo Worthy | CSC (until expiration) | Storage, transport | 10–15 years | 35,000–50,000 CZK |
| Wind & Watertight | none | Storage, garage | 5–10 years | 30,000–40,000 CZK |
| As-is | none | Raw, cheap storage, renovation | depending on condition | 20,000–35,000 CZK |
Price of a 20ft Shipping Container in 2026
Shipping container prices have undergone dramatic development in recent years — from the pandemic peak through a decline to the current stabilization. In 2026, the market is in a relatively balanced phase.
What Affects the Price of a 20ft Container
- Condition and grade — one-trip is up to 3× more expensive than as-is
- Location — containers in and around Prague tend to be more expensive than in the regions
- Season — spring and summer traditionally increase demand and prices
- Transport — distance from the depot plays a role; some sellers offer free transport upon meeting certain conditions
- Color and modifications — non-standard colors (custom RAL) and additional modifications increase the price
Transport and Unloading Costs for a 20ft Container
The transport of a container alone in the Czech Republic ranges from 5,000 to 15,000 CZK depending on the distance. For unloading, a hydraulic arm on a flatbed truck or a crane is needed — most professional sellers provide this service as part of the transport.
What to watch out for: Before ordering transport, make sure you have a sufficiently reinforced surface and an access road for a truck with a hydraulic arm (minimum 3 m clearance, sufficient ground bearing capacity).
20ft vs 40ft Shipping Container: When to Choose Which
One of the most common questions when buying. The answer depends on exactly what you need.
| Consideration | 20ft | 40ft |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6.06 m | 12.19 m |
| Volume | ~33 m³ | ~67 m³ |
| Price (used CW) | 35,000–50,000 CZK | 55,000–80,000 CZK |
| Price per m³ | higher | lower |
| Handling | easier, lighter | needs more space |
| Use | storage, garage, workshop | larger storage, workshop, conversion |
| Stacking | yes | yes |
Conclusion: If you have limited space and do not need large capacity, the 20ft is the more practical choice. If you need maximum volume at the lowest unit price and have room to place the container, go for the 40ft.
20ft Shipping Container as Garden Storage
This is the most common use of a 20ft container outside logistics. And it makes sense — for around 40,000 CZK, you get 33 m³ of dry, lockable, and durable space that withstands wind, rain, and snow.
What to Consider Before Placing a Container in Your Garden
- Building permit: A container with a built-up area of up to 25 m² and a height of 5 m usually does not require a building permit or notification — but always check with your local building authority. Rules may vary by municipality.
- Base: Ideally compacted gravel, a concrete slab, or at least concrete footings in the corners. The container must not stand directly on soil — the bottom frame would corrode.
- Ventilation: Even the tightest container needs air circulation. Without it, condensation and mold can occur. Consider installing ventilation grilles.
- Access: Ensure that a truck with a hydraulic arm can reach the container.
How to Equip a Storage Container for the Garden
- Shelving and racks — make use of the height, install them on both sides
- Lighting — battery-powered LED strips or solar lights
- Space division — partitions to separate seasonal equipment from tools
- Security — security lock, lock box (protective cover for the lock against cutting), optionally an alarm
How to Buy a 20ft Shipping Container and Have It Delivered
Buying a shipping container is not like shopping in an e-shop. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to proceed.
Step 1: Define the Purpose and Budget
Before you start browsing listings, answer these questions:
- What will the container be used for? (storage, workshop, conversion, transport)
- What condition do you need? (one-trip, CW, WWT, as-is)
- What is your budget including transport?
Step 2: Choose a Seller
There are several established sellers of shipping containers operating in the Czech Republic. Among the most significant are:
- HZ Containers — a specialist in selling new and used containers, with depots throughout the Czech Republic, offers transport and a wide selection of conditions
Step 3: Verify the Container’s Condition
If you are buying a used container, ideally inspect it in person. If that is not possible, request detailed photos and video. Focus on:
- The roof (leaks, corrosion)
- The floor (strength, stains, odor)
- The doors and sealing (functionality, integrity of the rubber seal)
- Locks and hinges
- Overall condition of the frame
Step 4: Arrange Transport and Unloading
Most sellers offer transport as part of the service. You will need to know:
- The exact delivery address
- Access conditions (road width, bearing capacity, obstacles)
- The type of surface for unloading
- Whether a crane is needed (usually not, a hydraulic arm is sufficient)
Step 5: Prepare the Site
Before the container arrives, prepare the base — compacted gravel, concrete footings, or a slab. Ensure clear access and remove any obstacles.
20 ft TEU Container: Significance in Logistics
The term TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) is the basic unit of measurement in container transport. One 20ft container = 1 TEU. A 40ft container = 2 TEU. This unit allows ports, harbor operators, and logistics companies to measure capacity and performance in a uniform way.
The largest container ships in the world today transport over 24,000 TEU — that is the equivalent of 24,000 twenty-foot containers on a single deck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the exact dimensions of a 20ft shipping container?
The external dimensions of a standard 20ft container are 6,058 × 2,438 × 2,591 mm (length × width × height). Internal dimensions are approximately 5,898 × 2,352 × 2,393 mm. The volume is roughly 33.2 m³. In the High Cube variant, the external height is 2,896 mm and the internal height is 2,698 mm (volume approximately 37.4 m³).
How much does a 20ft shipping container cost in 2026?
The price depends on the condition. A used cargo worthy container ranges from 35,000 to 50,000 CZK excluding VAT. A new one-trip costs 60,000 to 85,000 CZK excluding VAT. A retired as-is can be obtained from as little as 20,000 CZK excluding VAT. Transport must be added to the price (5,000–15,000 CZK).
Where to buy a 20ft shipping container in the Czech Republic?
Among the main sellers in the Czech Republic is HZ Containers. Containers can also be found on classifieds portals such as Bazoš or Sbazar.
How to transport a 20ft container to the property?
Transport is provided by most sellers using a truck with a hydraulic arm. The container is unloaded directly onto the prepared base. An access road of at least 3 meters in width and a reinforced base (gravel, concrete, panels) must be ensured.
What is the difference between a 20ft and 40ft container?
A 20ft container has a length of 6 m and a volume of ~33 m³. A 40ft has double the length (12 m) and a volume of ~67 m³. A 40ft is cheaper per m³ but requires more space and is more difficult to handle. For regular storage and garden use, the 20ft is more practical.
Do I need a building permit for a shipping container in the garden?
Usually not — a container with a built-up area of up to 25 m² and a height of 5 m generally does not require a building permit or notification. However, always verify the specific conditions with your local building authority, as they may differ depending on the municipality’s zoning plan.
What is a High Cube container and is it worth it?
High Cube (HC) is a container with increased height — 2,896 mm externally instead of the standard 2,591 mm. You gain 4.2 m³ more volume and more comfortable movement inside. It pays off especially for workshops, offices, or storage of bulky items.
What is the difference between a new one-trip and a used cargo worthy container?
A one-trip has made only a single journey from production and is practically as new — no corrosion, with a perfect floor and valid CSC certification for 5 years. Cargo worthy is an older, used container with visible signs of wear but still fully functional and certified for maritime transport.
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What Are the Internal Dimensions of a 40 Foot Container?
A standard 40-foot dry shipping container has internal dimensions of 12,032 mm in length, 2,352 mm in width, and 2,395 mm in height — or approximately 39 feet 5⅝ inches × 7 feet 8⅝ inches × 7 feet 10¼ inches. These figures come from the published specifications of major shipping lines and align with the ISO 668 international standard for Series 1 freight containers. The internal capacity is roughly 67.7 cubic meters (2,390 cubic feet).
what is the internal dimensions of a 40 foot container
A standard 40-foot shipping container has internal dimensions of approximately 12.032 meters (39 feet 5⅝ inches) in length, 2.352 meters (7 feet 8⅝ inches) in width, and 2.395 meters (7 feet 10¼ inches) in height. These internal dimensions are significantly smaller than the external dimensions because the corrugated steel walls, structural frame, corner posts, and the floor system—composed of plywood and steel—occupy valuable space intended for cargo.
What Is the Shipping Cost for a 40ft High Cube Container?
The shipping cost for a 40ft high cube container is not a single number — it is a layered calculation spanning purchase price, international ocean freight, and local ground delivery. A used 40ft high cube container typically costs $1,550 to $5,500 to purchase, while a new one-trip unit runs $2,800 to $9,000 depending on condition, location, and whether delivery is included.
Shipping container types
Roughly 80% of everything you own traveled to you inside a steel box. Shipping containers—also called cargo containers, ISO containers, or “conex” boxes—are the backbone of global trade, carrying about 90% of the world’s non-bulk cargo across oceans, rails, and highways. Yet a “shipping container” is not one single object. It is a family of specialized steel boxes, each engineered for a specific kind of cargo: some vent, some freeze, some open from the top, and some have no walls at all.