Shipping Container Sizes in the UK and Around the Globe
Shipping containers aren't solely used for cargo transportation. Containers can be repurposed for a variety purposes including boutique and retail spaces to contemporary living and work spaces.
Sizes of containers are controlled under ISO regulations. Knowing the exact dimensions of each type can help you plan transportation and increase the efficiency of your space.
Transport
Shipping containers are available in a range of sizes, designed to meet the requirements of different types of cargo. From the compact 8ft containers, to the huge 45ft containers Each size serves an individual purpose to facilitate global trade and commerce. The possibilities are endless, from repurposing containers into modern living spaces and offices to storage for agricultural equipment.
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 them to be safely stacked in intermodal freight transport methods such as ships, trains and road vehicles, without needing to access the cargo load. The majority of shipping containers are built with a high-quality aluminium or steel material to shield against the elements, thus reducing the chance of damage occurring during transit.
The majority of containers are constructed with closed or open tops. Open-top containers can accommodate more cargo by allowing overfilling, while closed-top containers are more suitable for international shipping as they offer superior protection against the elements. The doors of containers can also be designed to lock into place, offering additional security.
The proper size of a shipping container will help optimise logistics as global commerce continues to expand and change. 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 transported either domestically within the UK or internationally across continents, based on the destination. Choosing the right type of shipping container will be based on the specific requirements for cargo and if there are any restrictions on the handling of cargo.

The most commonly used method of transporting containers for shipping is by sea and many companies opting to ship their containers from factory to port via the container vessel service. This is a cost-effective method to transport your goods from A to B because there is no need to purchase specially-trained cargo handlers or vehicles to transport them.
Stores
Shipping containers are a vital element of the global supply chain. They are a common way to pack, secure and move cargo over vast distances, whether via railway, road or sea. They are available in different sizes and styles that can be used for a wide range of applications, from storing tools and equipment in warehouses, to housing tools and equipment on construction sites. The size of the container is contingent on how much you plan to store. This can impact the storage options available to you.
Storage containers are available in various sizes and shapes, and all of them meet ISO standards. They can be transported safely by ship, crane or truck. The most commonly used type of shipping container is the dry or general purpose container, and these are available in sizes of 20-foot and 40-foot, with an internal height of eight feet. High cube containers are 9 feet 6 inches taller and can offer an impressive increase in volume for taller items.
Reefers are an ISO container that is designed to transport products at a temperature that is controlled. These containers can be used for a variety products, such as fresh produce and pharmaceuticals. They are typically used for long-haul transport and are often customized to meet the specific needs of.
Other types of shipping containers include open top containers, with a roof that can be removed that makes it easy to load and unloading of cargo. These containers are used to transport large loads that would not fit through doors of standard containers. Conversions Containers are available in sizes of 20 and 40 feet. Flat rack containers are another alternative, and they come with collapsible sides, which allow them to be easily moved on truck beds.
Tank shipping containers are huge metal containers that can be used to haul gas and liquids. They are made from strong steel and lined with a non-permeabil material, which protects the contents inside from leakage and corrosion. Tank shipping containers are used to transport hazardous substances, such as crude oil and chemicals.
Commercial
Shipping containers have a long tradition of being a multi-purpose tool to secure the transport of goods and store them all over the world. The first models were designed to perform the simple task of moving cargo across oceans, they have since seen a huge increase in popularity as a cost-effective solution to a number of different purposes. The sheer diversity of sizes, ranging from small 8ft units that are ideal for storage in homes and boutique businesses to colossal containers with a height of 45ft, guarantees that there is a suitable model for every possible use.
Selecting the best freight container for your business requires careful consideration of internal and external dimensions. Using ISO standard container dimensions can help you to optimise the loading of your cargo and ensure that you are in compliance with shipping regulations. You can save time and money by not having to buy multiple containers at the last minute or make costly last minute changes to shipping plans.
Shipping container dimensions are typically measured by their length in inches, width and height. The dimensions are controlled to ensure compatibility with international shipping standards, and they are able to be moved through a variety of intermodal freight transportation modes that include rail, sea and road.
The 20-foot container is among the most common. This container is popular for both domestic and international storage as it offers plenty of space for goods of medium size. With the capacity to payload of around 29,800 pounds (approximately 20000 kilograms), it can comfortably accommodate a large amount of equipment and goods.
A 10ft container is a great choice for small-scale companies. It can be easily modified to serve many different needs. Depending on the way in which the container was reduced from its original shape and the style of its construction it could have an average payload of 3,700 to 4,200 pounds (approximately 2,400 to 2,900 kilograms).
Businesses across the UK have been using shipping containers to create creative expansion and functional storage. The versatility of these shipping containers is unmatched. They can be repurposed into mobile kiosks, offices or on-site storage during construction projects. Willbox has a large fleet of used or new shipping containers that are available to rent or purchase in the UK. This enables you to find the container that best suits your requirements.
Residential
Shipping containers are a flexible and durable option for many different applications for residential and commercial use. These sturdy steel boxes can be used to build homes, offices, studios and many more, and they're also an excellent option for temporary storage. Shipping container homes are fast becoming a popular option for homeowners, and they're an economical alternative to traditional home construction. There are several important factors to think about before choosing this option.
Modified shipping containers are used to build homes. They're the same containers that cargo ships and trucks use for long-distance transport. These containers are typically built with steel that has been galvanized or reinforced, and are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions. They are also easy to customize, and easily adapted into whatever type of space you require. These attributes make shipping container homes an ideal option for homeowners looking to build a house that is low-cost and environmentally friendly.
Shipping containers are typically 20 feet or 40 feet long. These standard dimensions allow you to load and move them via any mode of freight transportation from train to ship or truck with ease. They can be stackable and are perfect for storage and shipping solutions.
There are a number of other shipping container sizes, too. Willbox provides smaller 8-foot and 9-foot versions of these containers, which are great for smaller spaces or flexible storage requirements. These smaller containers are typically created from cutting smaller shipping containers, and are able to be customized to meet your specific requirements.
The general size of a shipping container is 320 or 160 square feet, depending on whether you select a high cube or regular model. The high-cube container has 9.5-foot ceilings, while the standard container has 8.2-foot ceilings. High-cube containers are generally preferred because they allow you to install insulation and run utilities without worrying about running out of space.
The biggest drawback of living in shipping containers is that they aren't as efficient in energy use as traditional homes. This is a trade-off that can be compensated with a solar panel system, or other renewable sources of energy. Another downside is that it can be difficult to get a loan for a house built in a shipping container since lenders typically require that the containers are placed on an enduring foundation.