When it comes to global trade and logistics, shipping containers are the unsung heroes that keep the world moving. Whether you’re an importer, exporter, or new to the freight industry, understanding the different shipping container types is important for choosing the right one for your cargo.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common containers—from the 20-foot standard to the 45-foot high cube—along with special types like reefer, flat rack, and open top containers. You’ll also find a detailed container size comparison table to help you make informed shipping decisions.
The Standard Containers: 20’ & 40’ Dry Vans
20’ Standard Container (Dry Van)
The 20-foot container, often called a “Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit” (TEU), is the workhorse of global shipping. Compact yet strong, it’s ideal for heavy cargo such as machinery, metals, or bulk commodities where weight—not volume—is the limiting factor. The max legal weight capacity over the road is about 37,000 lbs. Anything over that, will require a special chassis and overweight permits.
Best for: Heavy, dense goods (steel coils, minerals, equipment).
Not ideal for: Lightweight, voluminous goods that need more space.
40’ Standard Container
The 40-foot container (2 TEUs) or one FEU (Forty-Foot Equivalent Unit) is the next step up, offering double the length for lighter, higher-volume cargo. It’s the industry standard for international freight and is commonly used for everything from consumer goods to textiles. The maximum legal weight limit over the road is 44,000 lbs. Anything over that will require a special chassis and overweight permits.
Best for: Furniture, electronics, textiles, manufactured products.
Not ideal for: Extremely heavy cargo that could exceed weight limits before the container is full.
The High Cube Containers: 40’ & 45’ Options
40’ High Cube (HC) Container
The 40’ High Cube offers an additional foot of internal height compared to the standard 40’. This makes it perfect for lightweight cargo that needs extra headroom, or for shippers using pallets and tall items.
Best for: Bulky but lightweight goods, e.g., furniture, insulation materials, or machinery.
Bonus: Typically the rates between a 40’ standard and high cube are the same, so you are best going with the high cube option to get the extra foot of height space.
45’ High Cube Container
The largest standard container available in global shipping, the 45’ HC offers even more length and height, maximizing cubic capacity. These containers are often used by major retailers and e-commerce giants for long-haul sea freight.
Best for: High-volume, low-density shipments; e-commerce fulfillment; consolidated loads.
Limitations: Not available on all trade routes due to port restrictions.
Specialized Shipping Containers
While standard and high cube containers handle most cargo, some goods require specialized containers. Here are the most common types you’ll encounter in the full container load (FCL) market:
Reefer Container (Refrigerated)
Reefers are temperature-controlled containers designed to transport perishable goods such as fruits, vegetables, pharmaceuticals, and frozen food. They come in 20-foot and 40-foot versions, equipped with built-in refrigeration units that maintain temperatures from -30°C to +30°C.
Best for: Perishables, chemicals, or temperature-sensitive goods.
Tip: Always ensure adequate ventilation and pre-cooling for optimal results.
Flat Rack Container
Flat racks are built for out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo—items that don’t fit within standard dimensions. They have collapsible or fixed ends and no sidewalls, making them perfect for heavy machinery, vehicles, or construction materials.
Best for: Oversized cargo (cranes, yachts, industrial machinery).
Tip: Cargo must be properly lashed and secured using chains or straps to prevent movement during transit.
Open Top Container
Open tops are similar to standard containers but feature a removable tarpaulin roof instead of a solid top. This allows for easy loading of tall or bulky goods via crane.
Best for: Heavy cargo loaded from above, like marble blocks or large machinery.
Bonus: Tarpaulin covers protect goods from weather while allowing vertical access.
Shipping Container Specifications Table
| Container Type | Exterior Dimensions (L x W x H) | Interior Dimensions (L x W x H) | Door Opening (W x H) | Max Cargo Weight | Cubic Capacity |
| 20’ Standard | 20’ x 8’ x 8’6” (6.06 x 2.44 x 2.59 m) | 19’4” x 7’8” x 7’10” (5.9 x 2.35 x 2.39 m) | 7’8” x 7’5” (2.34 x 2.28 m) | 28,200 kg | 33.2 m³ |
| 40’ Standard | 40’ x 8’ x 8’6” (12.19 x 2.44 x 2.59 m) | 39’5” x 7’8” x 7’10” (12.03 x 2.35 x 2.39 m) | 7’8” x 7’5” (2.34 x 2.28 m) | 26,700 kg | 67.7 m³ |
| 40’ High Cube | 40’ x 8’ x 9’6” (12.19 x 2.44 x 2.90 m) | 39’5” x 7’8” x 8’10” (12.03 x 2.35 x 2.69 m) | 7’8” x 8’5” (2.34 x 2.56 m) | 26,500 kg | 76.3 m³ |
| 45’ High Cube | 45’ x 8’ x 9’6” (13.72 x 2.44 x 2.90 m) | 44’5” x 7’8” x 8’10” (13.55 x 2.35 x 2.69 m) | 7’8” x 8’5” (2.34 x 2.56 m) | 26,500 kg | 86.0 m³ |
| 20’ Reefer | 20’ x 8’ x 8’6” | 17’10” x 7’6” x 7’4” | 7’6” x 7’3” | 27,400 kg | 28.3 m³ |
| 40’ Reefer High Cube | 40’ x 8’ x 9’6” | 37’11” x 7’6” x 8’4” | 7’6” x 8’3” | 29,400 kg | 67.0 m³ |
| 40’ Flat Rack | 40’ x 8’ x 8’6” | 39’6” x 7’7” x (no roof) | N/A | 45,000 kg | N/A |
| 20’ Open Top | 20’ x 8’ x 8’6” | 19’4” x 7’8” x 7’8” | 7’8” x 7’5” | 28,200 kg | 32.5 m³ |
| 40’ Open Top | 40’ x 8’ x 8’6” | 39’5” x 7’8” x 7’8” | 7’8” x 7’5” | 26,600 kg | 66.0 m³ |
Choosing the Right Container for Your Cargo
When selecting a container, always consider:
- Cargo type & size – Determine if your shipment fits within standard dimensions or requires special handling.
- Weight vs. volume – Heavier loads suit smaller containers; lighter goods fit better in larger or high-cube options.
- Destination & route – Not all ports accommodate 45’ containers or special units.
- Budget – Standard containers are cheaper to ship and easier to find.
A logistics provider or freight forwarder can help you determine the most cost-effective and efficient container type for your cargo.
Final Thoughts: Maximize Efficiency with the Right Container
Understanding the differences among the common 20’ & 40’ containers, as well as specialized types like reefer, flat rack, and open top, can save you money and ensure your goods arrive safely.
Whether you’re shipping bulk materials, perishable goods, or oversized cargo, there’s a container that fits your needs. Choosing correctly means optimizing your supply chain, reducing waste, and improving turnaround time.
For additional insights into container shipping and more, get in touch with our logistics experts here at Allison Shipping—we’ll help you find the right logistical solution for your business.
Contact us today to learn how our freight forwarding expertise can support your international logistics and elevate your global supply chain.
