How many square meters does a shipping container have?

22. 10. 2024

Shipping containers are a practical and efficient solution for transporting and storing goods worldwide. When deciding on their use, it is crucial to understand their dimensions, which vary according to the type and purpose of the container. In this article, we'll look at how many square metres a typical shipping container is and how this information can influence your decision when choosing the right container.

Standard sizes of shipping containers

The most common sizes of shipping containers are 20 feet and 40 feet. These containers are often used in international shipping due to their versatile size and ease of handling.

The 20-foot container has external dimensions of approximately 6.06 metres in length, 2.44 metres in width and 2.59 metres in height. The internal dimensions are typically 5,89 metres in length, 2,35 metres in width and 2,39 metres in height. This means that the floor area of this container is approximately 13,86 m².

The 40-foot container is twice as long as the 20-footer, with external dimensions of approximately 12.19 metres in length, 2.44 metres in width and 2.59 metres in height. The internal dimensions are typically 12.03 metres in length, 2.35 metres in width and 2.39 metres in height, giving a floor area of approximately 28.33 m².

Increased container variants

For needs that require more space, there are elevated container variants known as High Cube (HC). These containers are slightly taller than the standard versions and offer more interior space, which can be advantageous for specific types of cargo.

The 20ft HC container has an external height of approximately 2.89 metres, increasing the internal height to 2.69 metres. The floor area remains the same as a standard 20ft container, but the increased height provides more volume.

The 40ft HC container offers similar benefits to its smaller counterpart, with an internal height of approximately 2.69 metres. This increases the overall volume without changing the floor area, which remains 28.33 m².

Use of floor space in containers

Understanding the floor space of a container is essential for efficient planning and cargo arrangement. The floor area will help you determine how much goods you can load into the container and how to use the available space efficiently. For example, for storage it is crucial to know how many pallets you can fit in the container, while for residential construction it is important to plan the internal layout based on the available floor space.

Specific shipping container applications

Shipping containers are used not only for transportation but also for various creative and practical purposes. Many people convert them into living spaces, offices or even art galleries. In these cases, knowing the floor space is essential for interior design and ensuring a comfortable and functional space.


Other container news...

How to get rid of moisture in a shipping container

20. 10. 2024

Moisture control in the shipping container is key to protecting the cargo and preventing damage. The use of dehumidifiers, proper ventilation and regular inspection can significantly reduce the risk of condensation and keep your cargo safe. Also, don’t forget to pack and position your container correctly to minimize potential moisture-related problems. Now that you know how to get rid of moisture in your shipping container, you can effectively protect your cargo and ensure that it arrives at its destination in perfect condition.

How tall is a shipping container?

19. 10. 2024

The height of a shipping container is a key specification to consider when planning the transportation of goods. Standard 2.591 metre containers are suitable for most applications, while high-cube containers offer more space for bulky cargo. When choosing the right container, it is important to consider the cargo and logistical requirements.

Red Sea

19. 10. 2024

The Red Sea faces serious challenges that fundamentally affect global shipping. Political instability and the activities of Yemen’s Houthis are threatening the security and continuity of shipping, with far-reaching implications for supply chains. Shipping companies are responding to increased costs and limited shipping capacity with strategic measures, including a move away from traditional routes. Despite these difficulties, innovation and investment in new technologies are expected to strengthen the resilience of shipping systems and contribute to long-term sustainability in international trade.

Length of a shipping container

18. 10. 2024

Shipping containers come in a variety of lengths, with 20 and 40 feet being the most common. These standard sizes provide a versatile solution for most shipping needs. Other lengths such as 10, 45 and 53 feet offer specialized solutions for specific shipping scenarios. The history of containers dates back to the post-war era, and their evolution has brought efficiency and standardization in global trade. When choosing a container, it is crucial to consider not only the length, but also the type of goods and specific transport requirements.