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Posted: September 18, 2024Category: Q&As

Ocean Freight Container Sizes & Types

If your business is growing and you're shipping larger quantities than are appropriate for LCL (less than container load) shipments, you'll be looking to move to FCL (full container load) shipping.

We'll match each of your shipments to the container type and size that will fit your needs best to provide the lowest freight pricing possible while also providing safe and efficient transport for your goods. While we'll be there with you for each step of your shipping journey, it can be helpful to have an idea of what types of containers are available for ocean and land freight options, and what sizes are common within each of these different types of containers.

Note: Dimensions may vary slightly between manufacturers and carriers, and weight limits may be subject to regulations. Also some containers are not available for use at all operation locations or location origin/destination pairings. Use this page only as a general guide.

Dry Cargo Containers

These containers are suitable for general cargo and are usually equipped with various lashing devices along longitudinal rails and corner posts to secure goods during transport. High Cube containers are designed for voluminous cargo, offering extra height for larger loads, while Hardtop containers are ideal for high or excessively tall items. Containers are generally constructed from steel for durability and easy repair. General cargo should not exceed length, width, height, or weight limits, and should be secured within the container, i.e. not transported as loose bulk goods.

20 ft standard container by Hapag-Lloyd40 Foot Standard Container by Hapag-Lloyd

20ft General

  • Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) = 5.89 x 2.35 x 2.36m
  • Door Opening (W x H) = 2.33 x 2.26m
  • Cubic Capacity = 33m³
  • Maximum Cargo Weight = 21,700kgs

20ft High Cube

  • Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) = 5.89 x 2.35 x 2.69m
  • Door Opening (W x H) = 2.33 x 2.59m37m³
  • Cubic Capacity = 21,700kgs

40ft General

  • Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) = 12.05 x 2.35 x 2.36m
  • Door Opening (W x H) = 2.33 x 2.26m
  • Cubic Capacity = 66m³
  • Maximum Cargo Weight = 26500kgs

40ft High Cube

  • Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) = 12.05 x 2.35 x 2.69m
  • Door Opening (W x H) = 2.33 x 2.59m
  • Cubic Capacity = 76m³
  • Maximum Cargo Weight = 26500kgs

Flat Rack Special Cargo Containers

Flat Rack containers are designed for over-dimensional (out of gauge) cargo and are available with or without sides. These containers are ideal for heavy lift, over-height, or over-width cargo, with collapsible end frames for flexible stowage. They feature strong lashing devices on longitudinal rails, corner posts, and the floor to secure cargo with straps or chains. Special containers are available for heavy or oversized loads, as well as project cargo, but Flat Rack containers are subject to availability and may incur additional surcharges. Survey reports may also be required for out of gauge shipments.

Flatrack / platform container by Hapag-Lloyd


20 ft Flat Rack Special Cargo Container

  • Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) = 5.64 (6.00 without sides) x 2.4 x 2.23 (0.23-.37 without sides) m
  • Cubic Capacity = 30-33m³, max height 2.36 on containers without sides
  • Maximum Cargo Weight = 23500 - 42000kgs depending on manufacturer & whether the sides are used or not

40 ft Flat Rack / Platform Special Cargo Container

  • Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) = 11.6-12.05 (12.20 without sides) x 2.4 x 2.23 (0.65 without sides) m
  • Cubic Capacity = 63-67m³, max height 2.36 on containers without sides
  • Maximum Cargo Weight = 36000-49000kgs depending on manufacturer & whether the sides are used or not

Open Top Containers

Open Top containers are ideal for over-height or lengthy cargo and allow for easier loading by crane. They do not have a solid roof but are covered with a removable, waterproof tarpaulin that is secured with ropes. The metal beam above the door can be opened or removed in most models for flexible access. Lashing rings inside the container help secure cargo and prevent shifting during transport. Open Top containers are subject to availability, and additional surcharges apply for out of gauge shipments. High Cube options may exist at some locations. Contact us so we can figure out the complexities of your shipment for you.

Open Top 40 foot Container


OPEN TOP CONTAINER - 20 FEET - ONE example

Specifications for 8'6" / 30,480kg
Inside Measurement Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
5,898
2,350
2,348
Door Opening Width (mm)
Height (mm)
2,340
2,280
Roof Opening Length (mm)
Width (mm)
5,680
2,252
Swing header opening Width(mm) 1,940
Load Capacity (m³) 32.5
Container Weight (kg) 2,380
Max. Load Weight (kg) 28,100

OPEN TOP CONTAINER - 40 FEET

Specifications for 8'6" / 30,480kg
Inside Measurement Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
12,022
2,350
2,348
Door Opening Width (mm)
Height (mm)
2,340
2,280
Roof Opening Length (mm)
Width (mm)
11,798
2,230
Swing header opening Width(mm) 1,940
Load Capacity (m³) 66.3
Container Weight (kg) 3,880
Max. Load Weight (kg) 26,600

 

Reefer Containers

Reefer containers are designed to maintain the temperature of frozen, chilled, or warm cargo. Equipped with a built-in refrigeration unit, they are powered by a motor generator (when on wheels), by the terminal (when in a yard), or by the ship (when onboard). Air circulates through an air duct system under, over, and through the cargo to ensure consistent temperature control. Adjustable ventilation holes allow fresh air exchanges to prevent the buildup of carbon dioxide, protecting perishable items like fruits, vegetables, and pharmaceuticals. The smaller internal dimensions are due to the thicker walls of this type of container. Reefer containers are subject to availability and may incur additional surcharges.


Reefer Container


Example dimensions (ONE - Ocean Network Express) Reefer Containers at some locations (we'll sort the exact dimensions of your particular local container - please contact us with your details).

REEFER CONTAINER - 20 FEET

Specifications for 8'6" / 30,480kg
Inside Measurement Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
5,456
2,288
2,263
Outside Measurement Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
6,058
2,438
2,591
Door Opening Width (mm)
Height (mm)
2,290
2,221
Load Capacity (m³) 28.2
Container Weight (kg) 2,910
Max. Load Weight (kg) 27,570

 

REEFER CONTAINER - 40 FEET HIGH CUBE

Specifications for 9'6" / 34,000kg
Inside Measurement Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
11,590
2,284
2,544
Outside Measurement Length (mm)
Width (mm)
Height (mm)
12,192
2,438
2,896
Door Opening Width (mm)
Height (mm)
2,290
2,502
Load Capacity (m³) 67.5
Container Weight (kg) 4,520
Max. Load Weight (kg) 29,480
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