Container dimensions

One of the main reasons that shipping containers have become so popular is because they are standardized. Standard shape, standard corner castings, standard construction etc. has helped to simplify intermodal logistics. Of course, there are many variations, and you should always check the exact dimensions of a container that you are purchasing/hiring. If you want to get an idea though of how the standard versions tend to measure up, here is a handy guide to shipping container dimensions.

The standard dimensions are assigned by the International Organisation for Standardisation, specifically in ISO 668:2013. These standards are reviewed every 5 years.

Length: 6.06 m

Width: 2.44 m

Height: 2.59 m

Length: 5.87 m

Width: 2.35 m

Height: 2.39 m

Length: 12.19 m

Width: 2.44 m

Height: 2.59 m

Length: 12.03 m

Width: 2.35 m

Height: 2.39 m

Length: 12.19 m

Width: 2.44 m

Height: 2.90 m

Length: 12.00 m

Width: 2.31 m

Height: 2.65 m

Length: 13.72 m

Width: 2.44 m

Height: 2.90 m

Length: 13.56 m

Width: 2.35 m

Height: 2.70 m

Listed so far are the most common size variations of intermodal shipping containers. There are however a wide range of different types of shipping containers. A few of the notable different ones are displayed below.

Smaller containers are popularly used by the United States military. These small containers are based on the standard 20 footer, retaining the same width, but shortening the length. They categorize the different sizes as follows.

Bicon containers are 1/2 the length
Tricon containers are 1/3 the length
Quadcon containers are 1/4 the length

Larger containers have been developed, but they are used almost entirely for domestic U.S. logistics (rail and road freight). Although efforts have been made to use these containers in ocean transport, uptake has been slow, especially after APL stopped offering vessel space on the trans Pacific vessels in 2013 for 53 footers.

48 foot containers 16.15 m in length, 2.90 m in height and 2.59 m wide
53 foot containers 14.63 m in length, 2.90 m in height and 2.59 m wide

All the measurements above have been rounded to two decimal places. Conversions, extra additions such as refrigeration capabilities and different manufacturing processes can cause variations in size. Further information on dimension variations can be found here. The information provided above is intended as guidance only and the author should not be considered responsible should any misinformation be presented.

ConFoot legs can support the majority of containers with standard corner casting. They allow just one person to remove or place a shipping container to a trailer, and stand it for an indefinite period of time. Find out more here.