Container Types & Specifications
Understanding container types helps you choose the right option for your cargo. This guide covers dimensions, capacities, and ideal uses for each container type.
Quick Reference: Standard Container Sizes
20' Standard
33 CBM | ~11 EUR pallets
Max payload: 28.2 t
40' Standard
67 CBM | ~24 EUR pallets
Max payload: 28.7 t
40' High Cube
76 CBM | ~24 EUR pallets
Max payload: 28.6 t
20' Standard (20' DC)
The most common container type. Ideal for heavy cargo that doesn't need the full length of a 40'.
Dimensions
External: 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.39m
Capacity
Volume: 33.2 CBM
Payload: 28,200 kg
Tare: 2,300 kg
Door/Opening
2.34m × 2.28m
40' Standard (40' DC)
Double the length of a 20'. Most economical per CBM for volume cargo.
Dimensions
External: 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.39m
Capacity
Volume: 67.7 CBM
Payload: 28,750 kg
Tare: 3,750 kg
Door/Opening
2.34m × 2.28m
40' High Cube (40' HC)
Extra 30cm height compared to standard 40'. Popular for lightweight, voluminous cargo.
Dimensions
External: 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.89m
Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.69m
Capacity
Volume: 76.3 CBM
Payload: 28,600 kg
Tare: 3,900 kg
Door/Opening
2.34m × 2.58m
20' Refrigerated (Reefer)
Temperature-controlled from -30°C to +30°C. For perishables and pharmaceuticals.
Dimensions
External: 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 5.44m × 2.29m × 2.27m
Capacity
Volume: 28.3 CBM
Payload: 27,400 kg
Tare: 3,100 kg
Door/Opening
2.29m × 2.26m
40' Refrigerated (Reefer)
High-cube reefer with maximum cold storage capacity.
Dimensions
External: 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.89m
Internal: 11.56m × 2.29m × 2.50m
Capacity
Volume: 66.7 CBM
Payload: 29,500 kg
Tare: 4,800 kg
Door/Opening
2.29m × 2.50m
20' Open Top
Removable tarpaulin roof for top-loading of tall cargo.
Dimensions
External: 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 5.90m × 2.35m × 2.35m
Capacity
Volume: 32.5 CBM
Payload: 28,100 kg
Tare: 2,400 kg
Door/Opening
2.34m × 2.28m
40' Open Top
For cargo that must be loaded from above due to height or shape.
Dimensions
External: 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 12.03m × 2.35m × 2.35m
Capacity
Volume: 66.5 CBM
Payload: 28,600 kg
Tare: 3,900 kg
Door/Opening
2.34m × 2.28m
20' Flat Rack
No sides or roof. End walls fold flat for easy stacking when empty.
Dimensions
External: 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 5.62m × 2.20m × 2.23m
Capacity
Payload: 28,200 kg
Tare: 2,800 kg
Door/Opening
Collapsible end walls
40' Flat Rack
For very heavy or wide cargo that can't fit in enclosed containers.
Dimensions
External: 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Internal: 12.00m × 2.20m × 2.00m
Capacity
Payload: 40,000 kg
Tare: 5,700 kg
Door/Opening
Collapsible end walls
40' Tank Container
Cylindrical tank within container frame for liquid cargo.
Dimensions
External: 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.59m
Capacity
Volume: 21,000-26,000 liters
Payload: 26,000-36,000 kg
Door/Opening
Top hatch, bottom valve
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