Shipping container dimensions and capacities

The full specification

	Type	Internal length (m)	Internal width (m)	Internal height (m)	Capacity (m³)	Payload (kg)	Tare (kg)
	20' GP	5.90	2.35	2.39	33.2	28,200	2,230
	40' GP	12.03	2.35	2.39	67.7	26,600	3,850
	40' HC	12.03	2.35	2.69	76.4	26,460	3,990
	45' HC	13.56	2.35	2.69	86.0	25,600	4,850
	20' Reefer	5.44	2.29	2.27	28.3	27,400	3,000
	40' Reefer	11.58	2.29	2.55	67.6	25,850	4,600
	20' Open Top	5.89	2.34	2.35	32.4	28,100	2,350
	40' Open Top	12.02	2.34	2.35	66.1	26,780	3,700
	20' Flat Rack	5.62	2.23	2.21	—	31,260	2,740
	40' Flat Rack	12.06	2.40	2.14	—	39,500	5,500

These are representative industry figures and vary slightly between manufacturers. The weight you can actually load also depends on road limits along the route, which are often lower than the box itself allows. Ask us for the exact dimensions of the unit before you load.

Which box for which cargo

• Standard (GP) — general palletised or cartoned cargo that fits within the normal height. The usual choice and the cheapest.
• High cube (HC) — about a foot more height. For bulky, light cargo that runs out of volume before it runs out of weight.
• Reefer — temperature-controlled cargo. The machinery shortens the internal length, and plug-in power is charged separately at the port.
• Open top — when the cargo has to be loaded from above, or is taller than the door opening. The roof is closed with bows and a tarpaulin.
• Flat rack — cargo out of gauge in width or height, machinery and heavy pieces. Higher payload, but it has to be properly lashed.