The 20ft and 40ft are the two most popular shipping container sizes — and choosing between them comes down to how much space you need, your budget, and your site. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
20ft Shipping Containers
A 20ft container offers roughly 1,170 cubic feet of storage in a footprint about the size of a single parking space. It's easier to deliver to tight sites, costs less up front, and is plenty for most home and small-business storage needs.
- External: 20' L × 8' W × 8'6" H
- Best for: home storage, tools, small inventories, tight access
40ft Shipping Containers
A 40ft container roughly doubles the space (~2,390 cubic feet) for less than double the price — making it the better value per cubic foot. It needs more room to deliver and maneuver, but it's ideal for larger inventories, equipment, and container builds.
- External: 40' L × 8' W × 8'6" H (a high cube adds a full foot of height)
- Best for: large inventories, equipment, workshops, modifications
Capacity, Cost & Delivery Compared
A 40ft unit gives you the best storage value per dollar, but a 20ft is cheaper overall and far easier to place. Delivery matters too: a tilt-bed truck needs clear, straight access of roughly three times the container's length to off-load — so a 40ft needs noticeably more room than a 20ft. Both ship for the same flat $500 with us.
Which Size Should You Choose?
Choose a 20ft container if you have limited space or moderate storage needs. Choose a 40ft container if you need maximum capacity or plan to modify it. Still unsure? Talk to our team and we'll help you pick.