Shipping Container Sizes in the UK and Around the Globe
Shipping containers aren't just for cargo transport. From small 8ft units to colossal 45ft containers, they can be transformed into a range of purposes from retail and boutique spaces to contemporary living and work spaces.
Container sizes are controlled by ISO regulations. Knowing the specific dimensions of each type will aid in planning your transportation and optimize the efficiency of your space.
Transport
There are a myriad of shipping container sizes that are available in the UK and across the globe, each designed to meet the different needs of cargo. Each size, ranging from the 8ft to the 45ft, has a specific function in facilitating international trade and commerce. The range of options is endless and includes everything from repurposing containers to modern offices and living spaces to storage for agricultural use.
While the dimensions of a shipping container might differ, the majority of them adhere to a standard in terms of height, width and length. This allows containers to be securely stacked in intermodal freight transport options like trains, ships and road vehicles, without needing access to the cargo. Most shipping containers are made of high-quality steel and aluminium to protect them from the elements. This reduces the risk of damage during transit.
The majority of containers are constructed with closed or open tops. Open-top containers are able to hold more cargo as they allow overfilling. Closed-top containers, however, are better suited for international shipping since they offer greater protection from the elements. The doors of containers can be made to lock into place providing additional security.
As the world of global trade continues to grow and change, the right size of container for shipping is crucial for optimising logistics. From the 20ft and 40ft standard shipping containers to specialised reefers for temperature-sensitive cargo, understanding the various options on offer will help businesses to streamline transport operations.
Shipping containers can be shipped either domestically within the UK or internationally across continents, dependent on the final destination. The best method of transport will depend on the specific requirements for cargo and whether there are any restrictions on cargo handling.
The most popular method of containers for shipping is via sea, with many companies choosing to transport their containers from the factory to port via containers on vessels. This is a cost-effective method to get your products from point A to point B. It is not necessary to employ cargo handlers or pay for special vehicles.
Stores
Shipping containers play a significant role in the global supply chain, offering a standardised method of packaging, securing and transporting cargo across vast distances by sea, rail or road. These versatile units are available in a range of sizes and types to meet the needs of a variety of industries such as storage of equipment and tools on construction sites to storing equipment and other supplies in warehouses. The size of the container depends on how much you plan to store. This can impact the storage options you have.
There are several different kinds of storage containers, all of which are compliant with ISO standards and are safe to transport aboard cranes, ships or trucks. Dry or general-purpose containers are the most commonly used shipping containers. They are available in 40-foot and 20-foot sizes with an internal height of eight feet. height. High cube containers are nine feet six inch taller and can provide an impressive increase in volume for taller items.
Refrigerated containers, also known as reefers, are a particular type of ISO container designed to transport products at a controlled temperature. They can be used to transport a variety of items including fresh produce as well as pharmaceuticals. Typically, they are used for long-haul transport, and are often adapted to meet the specific needs of.
20ft shipping container for sale uk of shipping containers include open top containers which have a removable roof that allows for easy loading and unloading of cargo. These containers are used to transport large loads that could not be able to fit through standard container doors. They are available in sizes of 20 feet and 40 feet. Containers with flat racks, which have collapsible side panels and can be towed on bed beds for trucks, are another option.
Tank shipping containers are huge metal canisters that can be used for gas and liquids. They are constructed from sturdy steel and are lined with a non-permeabil material, which helps protect the cargo inside from leakage and corrosion. Tank shipping containers are used to transport hazardous substances, like crude oil and chemicals.
Commercial
Shipping containers have a long history of being a tool that can be used to secure, transport and store goods around the world. Initially, they were designed to facilitate the simple task of moving cargo across oceans, they have since seen a huge increase in popularity as a cost-effective solution to many different uses. Containers are available in a wide range of sizes. From 8ft containers that are perfect for small businesses and personal storage to 45ft containers that can be used for huge projects, there's the right container for each need.
The selection of the right container for your business requires careful consideration of internal and external dimensions. Utilizing ISO standard dimensions for containers will allow you to optimize cargo loading and ensure that you are in compliance with shipping regulations. You can save money and time by not having to purchase multiple containers in the last minute or make costly last minute changes to shipping plans.
Shipping container sizes generally refer to their length and width and also the height of the doors. The dimensions are controlled to guarantee compatibility with international shipping standards and they can be used through a variety of intermodal freight transportation modes, including sea, rail and road.
The 20-foot container is the most popular. It is a popular container for both domestic and international storage as it offers plenty of space for medium-sized goods. With a payload capacity of approximately 29,800 pounds (approximately 20000 kilograms), it can comfortably take on a lot of equipment and goods.
A 10ft container is a great choice for small businesses. It can be easily modified to suit a variety of needs. The payload ranges between 3,700 and 4,200 pounds (approximately 2400 to 2,900 kg) depending on how the container was modified.
Shipping containers are utilized by companies across the UK for creative expansions and storage for practical purposes. From repurposing them into kiosks and mobile offices to secure on-site storage facilities for construction projects, the versatility of these containers is unsurpassed. Willbox has a large selection of new or used shipping containers to rent or purchase in the UK. This allows you to select the container that best meets your needs.
Residential
Shipping containers are a flexible and durable solution for a variety of different applications for residential and commercial use. These sturdy steel boxes can be used to build studios, homes, offices and much more. They're also an excellent option for temporary storage. Shipping container homes have become a popular option for homeowners. They are also an affordable way to build a house. However there are some important things to consider before choosing this option for your home.
Modified shipping containers are used to build homes. These are the same containers that cargo ships and trucks use for long-distance transport. They are usually constructed from steel that has been galvanized or reinforced, and are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions. They're also easy to customize, and easily adapted to fit into any space you require. These attributes make shipping container homes an ideal choice for homeowners who want to build a house that is affordable and sustainable.
The most common sizes for shipping containers are 20 feet and 40 feet. These sizes allow them to be easily transported and loaded on a variety of modes of transportation for freight, from train to ship. They are also designed to stack, which makes them ideal for shipping and storage solutions at any location.

There are other sizes of shipping containers too. Willbox offers the smaller 9-foot and 8-foot versions of these containers, which are great for small spaces or flexible storage needs. These smaller containers can be made by cutting down larger standard shipping container sizes and can be customised to meet your specific requirements.
The square footage of the standard or high-cube shipping container is 160 or 320 feet depending on which model you select. The high-cube container has 9.5-foot ceilings, while the standard container has 8.2-foot ceilings. High-cube containers tend to be preferred because they can be fitted with insulation and run utilities with no worries about running out space.
The main drawback of living in the container is that it's not as energy efficient as a traditional home. This is a compromise which can be offset by solar panels, or other renewable sources of energy. Another downside is that it can be difficult to get a mortgage for a shipping container home because lenders typically require that the containers be placed on a permanent foundation.