External footprint
40 ft × 8 ft
Rounded external length and width. Allow extra space for door opening, access and delivery.
Rental · Duration and delivery to be confirmed
40ft container: dimensions and rental
Compare 40-foot shipping containers by height, condition and usable space. Check the standard and High Cube models, then request the full cost including sales tax, delivery and unloading to your ZIP code.
- External length
- 40 ft
- Internal floor area
- ≈ 304.6 sq ft
- Internal volume
- ≈ 2,401.4 cu ft
- Tare weight (example)
- ≈ 8,267.3 lb
- Independent supplier matching service · ContainerFox helps you compare suppliers and request quotes.
40ft container prices and delivered project costs in the USA
The delivered total depends on the size, condition, depot, transport, unloading and any conversion work. Our US catalog lists container specifications and indicative prices where comparable references are available. Ask for conversion and site installation to be priced separately. Request an itemized quotation showing applicable sales tax and every required charge.
Dimensions and weights of a 40ft container
Check the external footprint, the internal space, the door opening and the weights. The table distinguishes between standard and High Cube, based on an example model for each size.
| Reference | Standard (DRY) | High Cube |
|---|---|---|
| External length | 40 ft | 40 ft |
| External width | 8 ft | 8 ft |
| External height | 8 ft 6 in | 9 ft 6 in |
| Internal length | 39 ft 5.7 in | 39 ft 5.7 in |
| Internal width | 7 ft 8.6 in | 7 ft 8.5 in |
| Internal height | 7 ft 10.3 in | 8 ft 10.3 in |
| Door opening width | 7 ft 8.1 in | 7 ft 8.1 in |
| Door opening height | 7 ft 6.2 in | 8 ft 6.2 in |
| Stated internal volume | 2,390.8 cu ft | 2,694.5 cu ft |
| Calculated internal floor area | Approximately 304.6 sq ft | Approximately 304.6 sq ft |
| Tare weight | 8,267.3 lb | 8,598 lb |
| Maximum payload | 63,382.9 lb | 63,052.2 lb |
| Maximum gross mass | 71,650.2 lb | 71,650.2 lb |
The maximum gross mass published for these examples is 71,650.2 lb for both formats. Confirm the actual unit's CSC plate, current markings and inspection status. A generic ISO-series figure is not permission to load to that mass. Floor and concentrated-load limits, lifting equipment, vehicle and axle weights and route restrictions must also be satisfied. The container's rating is separate from the allowable gross weight of the truck and trailer.
- Tare weight
- The weight of the empty container. It matters for delivery and lifting.
- Maximum payload
- The unit's rated gross mass minus its actual tare. Cargo, pallets, packaging and securing materials all consume this allowance; operational limits may be lower.
- Maximum gross mass
- Container plus all contents. Confirm its rated limit on the actual unit's CSC plate and current documentation. Vehicle, axle, handling and route limits are separate.
Inside
≈ 304.6 sq ft floor area
2,390.8 cu ft in standard and 2,694.5 cu ft in High Cube. Storage and aisles reduce the space that can actually be used.
At the door opening
≈ 7 ft 8.1 in wide
Height: 7 ft 6.2 in for standard and 8 ft 6.2 in for High Cube, on the models shown.
How many North American pallets fit in a 40ft container?
The illustrated calculation fits 21 nominal North American pallets (48 × 40 in (1,219.2 × 1,016 mm)) on this reference floor in one layer. It includes no overhang, aisle, handling or securing allowance. Rotated pallets require compatible fork entry and a workable loading sequence. Actual loaded dimensions, door clearance, cargo mass and floor loads must be checked with the supplier and carrier; this is not a guaranteed capacity.
Adjust the allowances or compare Euro pallets in the pallet planner.
Model examples and floor-area calculationIdentify the standard and High Cube examples, then check the usable space for your project.ExpandCollapse
The interior, doors, volume and weights describe 40ft standard and High Cube example models. The High Cube internal width is 7 ft 8.5 in, from the same model specification as its volume and weights. The external dimensions describe the standard and High Cube formats. Confirm the actual unit's specification before purchase.
Internal floor area: 39 ft 5.7 in × 7 ft 8.6 in = 304.6 sq ft, rounded to 304.6 sq ft. This geometric area does not deduct aisles, racking or fittings. Internal dimensions, volumes and weights vary by manufacturer.
Standard 40ft or High Cube?
Both have the same external length and width. The High Cube adds 1 ft in height: choose it if your load uses this extra space.
Standard height
40ft DRY · 2,390.8 cu ft
8 ft 6 in high externally and 7 ft 10.3 in internally. To be considered when the height of your goods and the door opening are sufficient.
Get a quote for a standard 40ft containerMore headroom
40ft High Cube · 2,694.5 cu ft
9 ft 6 in high externally and 8 ft 10.3 in internally. Useful for tall equipment or shelving, subject to confirming loading and delivery.
Request a quote for a 40ft High CubeApproximate figures based on the models in the dimensions table. The door opening is lower than the internal ceiling. All about High Cube.
One 40ft or two 20ft containers?
The decision depends on how you will use the space. Compare the two configurations including delivery and installation.
One large space
The 40ft provides 39 ft 5.7 in of continuous internal length. This is useful for long items or organizing a single storage space. However, you must allow for access to goods stored at the far end.
To check: available length and delivery maneuvers.
Two independent spaces
Two 20ft containers allow you to separate uses or storage locations. Each unit has its own doors; the quote must include transport and delivery of both containers.
Compare with the 20ft sizeA larger volume does not mean a doubled payload: on the models shown, it is 63,382.9 lb for a 40ft, compared with 62,016 lb for each 20ft. For heavy equipment, have their weight, distribution and the limits of the proposed container checked.
Which 40ft shipping container should you buy?
Same nominal length, different height, condition or format: compare specifications before requesting a US-dollar quotation. These are reference models; stock and delivery are confirmed for your location.
Scroll to see all formats.
Scale
5 ft 8.9 in
length 9 ft 9 in height 8 ft 6 in
length 19 ft 10.5 in height 8 ft 6 in
40ft standardthis page
length 40 ft height 8 ft 6 in
length 40 ft height 9 ft 6 in
40ft High Cube
length 40 ft · height 9 ft 6 in · 2,694.5 cu ft
Same footprint as the standard, with more height for tall equipment, shelving or a conversion.
See the guide40ft new / one-trip
length 40 ft · height 8 ft 6 in · 2,390.8 cu ft
Usually marketed after one loaded journey from manufacture. Confirm the actual history, color, condition and included equipment.
See the guide40ft used
length 40 ft · height 8 ft 6 in · 2,390.8 cu ft
Consider for storage if signs of wear are acceptable. Ask for photos of the floor, doors and seals.
See the guideOpen Side (20ft model)
length 20 ft · opening ≈ 18 ft 9.2 in · 1,094.8 cu ft
A large side that opens to access equipment without moving everything. The reference model is a 20ft.
See the guideConverted container
Insulation, partitions and services to be quoted
Office, workshop or reception: a 40ft length allows several zones to be separated. Conversion works are compared separately.
See the guideRefrigerated, for rent
Refrigeration unit · electrical connection
For keeping products cold: compare the temperature range, power supply and planned maintenance.
See the guide10ft
length 9 ft 9 in · height 8 ft 6 in
The compact size, when site space or truck access is very limited.
See the guide20ft
length 19 ft 10.5 in · height 8 ft 6 in · 1,172.4 cu ft
A shorter size to consider if space or delivery access is a concern.
See the guideCompare the dimensions, condition and specification before requesting a delivered price. See all shipping containers.
New, one-trip or used: which should you choose?
Condition is chosen separately from format. Start from your use and the acceptable level of wear.
To prioritize budget
A used 40ft container
Ask for recent photos of the container on offer: floor, doors, seals and repairs. Ask for details of its watertightness and what has been inspected. To find out what condition to ask for, see condition classes for used containers.
Prioritizing condition
A one-trip 40ft container
It has already been transported since manufacture and may have handling marks. Ask for details of color, condition and included equipment.
What to do with a 40ft container?
The contents to store and the access frequency inform the useful features. These cases are project examples, not supplier installations.
CASE 1
Storing business stock
Palletised goods, spare parts or archives can be kept close to the workplace. Over this length, a storage layout with an aisle avoids moving everything to reach the back. First check that a long truck can access the site.
Equipment to consider
Shelving or racks, lighting, pallet truck ramp and location labels.
CASE 2
Storing agricultural or grounds maintenance equipment
A suitable container can shelter machines, tools and supplies near the work. Check watertightness, moisture control and security for the stored items. Measure machines with their attachments, and check the door opening, floor loads and access ramp. Provide a stable surface in front of the entrance.
Equipment to consider
Reinforced ramp, wall brackets, ventilation and secure closure appropriate to the value of the equipment.
CASE 3
Centralising logistics for a long-running site
A single large container can hold the equipment, consumables and tools for several teams. Choose the location with the site manager: it must remain accessible until the end of the works. Depending on the duration, compare purchase and rental.
Equipment to consider
Racking, partition between teams, self-contained lighting and reinforced locking.
CASE 4
A large space for a conversion project
Office, workshop or reception area: the length allows separate zones to be created. A high cube provides extra starting height; insulation and the ceiling still reduce the finished space. Get the work quoted separately. Confirm municipal zoning and development requirements and the applicable state or local building, fire and electrical approvals before installation.
Preparing a converted containerEquipment to consider
Insulation, partitions, door and window cut-outs, electrics, ventilation and floor covering.
Delivering a 40ft container: what to prepare
The container is 40 ft long. The truck configuration, its maneuvers and its unloading method must be assessed before confirming the order.
Access from the road
Photograph the entrance, bends and gate. Flag any slopes, narrow passages and overhead obstacles.
The truck stopping point
Indicate where it can park and maneuver. The supplier must confirm access with the planned vehicle and lifting method.
The exact positioning point
Specify the distance between the truck and the placement point. Have side unloading or crane delivery confirmed.
The date and departure depot
Provide your ZIP code and date flexibility. Ask for the actual collection location, which may differ from the seller's head office.
Preparing the site
The site and supports must carry the loaded unit and allow the doors to operate. Have soil bearing, drainage, frost movement, support positions and anchoring assessed with the supplier and, where needed, a qualified local designer. Arrange snow clearing and check seasonal access restrictions where relevant. Leave loading space at the doors and check local container siting and permit rules.
Zoning and building approval: check your project
External footprint of a 40ft: approximately 319.9 sq ft. This is a dimensional estimate, not a permission threshold.
Before delivery, check the site's zoning and intended use with the city, county or authority having jurisdiction. Describe the container's position, height, duration, foundations, utilities and access. Zoning, building, fire and floodplain approvals are separate checks. Floodplain development rules can cover storage or site work even where no building permit is needed. Use the adopted state or local code and ordinances; a small footprint, mobility or a shipping certificate does not establish an exemption.
- California: zoning and building
Ask the city or county whether the proposed storage or commercial use, location, duration and appearance are allowed. Confirm applicable Title 24 building and fire requirements, local amendments and any factory-built approval route for converted or occupied units. Residential use needs a separate assessment.
- Texas: zoning and building
Confirm municipal or county authority, deed restrictions, floodplain rules and the proposed use. Ask TDLR whether factory conversion falls within the IHB program. Certain nonpublic construction-site buildings and temporary commercial units have program exemptions; an IHB exemption does not settle local permits, installation or workplace requirements.
- Washington: zoning and building
Confirm zoning, setbacks, duration, fire access and site approvals locally. A factory-built occupied or converted unit can fall within L&I's modular-building or commercial-coach program; establish its classification and required approval or insignia before fabrication and shipment. A bare storage shell and a completed office do not necessarily follow the same route.
- Other states and Washington, DC: zoning and building
Identify the zoning, building, fire and floodplain authorities for the actual parcel, including any tribal or federal jurisdiction. Check the adopted code, local ordinances and any state modular-building program. Repurposed containers can be subject to container-specific structural provisions, but a model-code publication alone does not establish local law or a permit exemption.
Compare the cost of your delivered 40ft container.
Format, condition, ZIP code and access: prepare a single inquiry to compare the container, transport and unloading. Free and without obligation.
How to compare 40ft container suppliers and quotes
Step 1
Specify your container
Container type, condition, purchase or rental and quantity.
Step 2
Submit one request
Your requirements and ZIP code, entered only once.
Step 3
Compare the delivered price
Container, transport and unloading, on the same basis.
Free and with no obligation. ContainerFox helps you compare suppliers and request quotes. Your request goes through our comparison service: the companies listed in the directory are not necessarily the recipients of your request. Professionals may pay for the introduction service (How the service works).
Prepare my request40ft shipping container suppliers in the USA
This selection reproduces the information published by the companies in the directory. Directory order, not a ranking; it does not guarantee stock or receipt of your request.
No listing yet describes all these criteria for this mode. You can consult the directory or specify your project in the form; the absence of a corresponding listing does not describe market stock.
Browse the directory with these criteriaFrequently asked questions about the 40ft container
How much does a 40ft container cost in the United States?
Request a US-dollar quotation for the condition, height and fittings you need. Ask for the unit, applicable sales taxes, delivery and unloading to be itemized for your ZIP code. This page does not publish a fixed US price or a market average.
What are the dimensions of a 40ft container?
A 40ft (40-foot) container counts as 2 TEU, the twenty-foot equivalent unit: its length of 40 ft, approximately 39 ft 4.4 in, corresponds to 40 feet. Externally, the standard 40ft measures 8 ft wide and 8 ft 6 in high. Internally, the example model offers 39 ft 5.7 in × 7 ft 8.6 in × 7 ft 10.3 in, i.e. approximately 304.6 sq ft of floor area and 2,390.8 cu ft. The High Cube keeps the same length and width, with 9 ft 6 in external height.
How much does an empty 40ft container weigh?
The standard example model has a tare weight of 8,267.3 lb, rated payload of 63,382.9 lb and maximum gross mass of 71,650.2 lb. The High Cube example model has a tare of 8,598 lb. Confirm the actual unit's markings, CSC plate, inspection status and floor limits. Pallets, packaging and restraint consume payload; the carrier's vehicle, axle, lifting and route limits may require a lower load.
What is the difference between a standard and a High Cube 40ft container?
The High Cube is 1 ft higher externally, for the same length and width. The models shown give 2,390.8 cu ft for the standard and 2,694.5 cu ft for the High Cube. This gain is in volume: the payload does not increase (63,382.9 lb compared with 63,052.2 lb on these examples). Also check the door opening height.
What is the door opening size of a 40ft container?
On the models shown, the door opening is 7 ft 8.1 in wide. Its height is 7 ft 6.2 in for the standard and 8 ft 6.2 in for the High Cube, i.e. less than the internal height. Measure your tallest load, including packaging and supports, and ask for confirmation of the opening on the unit offered.
How many 48 × 40 inch pallets fit in a 40ft container?
The illustrated calculation fits 21 nominal North American pallets (48 × 40 in) on the reference floor in one layer. It is a candidate layout, not a proven maximum or approved loading plan. Overhang, handling and securing clearances, cargo mass and floor loads can reduce the count. Check rotated-pallet fork entry and the loading sequence with the supplier and carrier.
Does the price include transport and unloading?
The scope is confirmed in your quotation. Ask for the container, delivery, lifting, placement, any site work and applicable sales taxes to be itemized for your ZIP code. This guide does not establish a US delivery tariff.
Can a 40ft container be delivered to a private site?
It may be possible once the carrier confirms safe access, maneuvering and unloading. Send photos and site measurements before ordering. Have soil bearing, loaded-unit supports, drainage and frost movement assessed. Confirm zoning and the applicable building and other approvals, including for temporary use.
Is a 40ft better than two 20ft containers?
A 40ft offers a continuous space, useful for long items. Two 20ft containers allow two uses or two locations. On the models shown, the payload is 63,382.9 lb for a 40ft and 62,016 lb for each 20ft. Compare access, storage organization and the delivered cost of the two solutions, including unloading.
Can you rent a 40ft container?
Request a rental quotation for your location and dates. Confirm the billing period, minimum term, deposit, delivery, unloading, collection and end-of-rental procedure, then compare the total over the same period as purchase.
Practical guides for your 40ft container project
- Transport and unloadingVehicle, lifting and delivery cost to your address.
- Compare rental and purchase over the same periodAdding return transport to the rental charges.
- Request a rental quote for a 40ft containerDuration, ZIP code and access, in a single request.
- Buying used containers properlyPhotos, condition points and information to request.
Updated on · Dimensions and weights describe the cited reference models, not a reserved unit. US prices, stock, applicable taxes, delivery and unloading are confirmed by quotation for your ZIP code.
Prepare your 40ft container quote request
Check these details before comparing equipment, delivery and services.