Shipping containers Container types

Shipping containers

20 ft and 40 ft ISO containers: dimensions, types and use on land.

Shipping containers (ISO containers) are standardised steel boxes for global trade – usually 20 ft or 40 ft. On land they serve as storage, a base for conversions or cheap extra space.

Typical uses

  • Overseas shipping and transport
  • Stationary storage
  • Base for conversions (workshop, bar)
  • Cheap extra space

✓ Advantages

  • Globally standardised dimensions
  • Extremely strong and stackable
  • Widely available, also used
  • Highly convertible

! Points to consider

  • Heavy tare weight
  • Condensation/rust if untreated
  • High cube only ~30 cm taller

Related guides

Sizes & dimensions → Used-buying checklist → What does a container cost? →

Planning with shipping containers?

Compare sizes, costs and buying vs. renting in our guides.

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