Most people know about 20ft and 40ft containers. But the full range runs from 8ft mini-containers to 53ft domestic containers — and the right size for your application isn't always the most obvious one. Here's every standard size with the numbers you actually need.
Size comparison at a glance
Every standard size — full specs
10ft container
The smallest standard ISO container. Less common than 20ft and 40ft — not all depots stock them. Useful for very tight spaces, small gardens, or as an add-on to an existing structure. Priced at $1,500–$3,500.
20ft standard
The most widely available container in the US. The standard unit of international shipping (one TEU). Easiest to deliver on residential sites due to shorter length. Priced at $1,500–$5,500 depending on grade. Full 20ft guide →
20ft high cube
Same footprint as the standard 20ft but with a full extra foot of interior height — 8'10" vs 7'10". The difference in livability for any occupied space is significant. Typically $300–$600 more than a standard 20ft. Strongly recommended for homes and offices.
40ft standard
Double the length of the 20ft for roughly 50–80% more cost — significantly better value per square foot. The most common choice for container homes and commercial storage. Requires 60–70ft of site clearance for tilt-bed delivery. Priced at $2,000–$8,000 depending on grade. Full 40ft guide →
40ft high cube
The most popular container for homes, offices, and conversions. The extra interior height makes a genuine difference in liveability and gives more room for insulation, MEP, and ceiling installations without losing headroom. Recommended for all occupied applications. Priced $300–$800 more than the standard 40ft.
45ft high cube
Five extra feet over the 40ft HC — enough to add a small room or a more generous kitchen. Less common than 40ft, so selection is smaller and prices are less competitive. Good choice when the 40ft is just slightly too short for your floor plan. Availability varies significantly by region.
53ft domestic container
The largest standard container used in the US domestic trucking network. Slightly wider than ISO containers (8'6" vs 8' exterior). Not designed for ocean shipping — used for rail and truck only. Less common at container depots. Good for large storage or as the main structure of a generous container home, but sourcing can take longer.
Which size should you choose?
I need basic storage for a home or small business
How much do you need to store? A standard 20ft holds the contents of a 2-bedroom house. A 40ft holds a 3–4 bedroom house worth of belongings.
→ 20ft CWO or WWTI want to build a container home for one or two people
A single 40ft high cube gives you 320 sq ft — tight but livable as a primary residence, comfortable as a cabin or retreat. Two containers gives you a proper home.
→ 40ft high cube, one-tripI need a home office or studio separate from my house
A 20ft high cube is typically sufficient for a private office or creative space — and fits most residential lots without major access challenges.
→ 20ft high cube, one-trip or CWOI have a tight delivery situation
The 20ft needs roughly 40ft of clearance; the 40ft needs 60–70ft. If your access is under 60ft of clear straight run, the 20ft is much easier.
→ 20ft in any gradeI want the best value per square foot
The 40ft is significantly cheaper per square foot than the 20ft — roughly $7–$14/sq ft vs $11–$20/sq ft for equivalent grades.
→ 40ft standard or high cubeI need a container for food or sensitive cargo
Unknown chemical history is a real concern in used containers. For food-adjacent uses, one-trip containers from any size are the safest choice.
→ Any size, one-trip grade onlyCheck availability in your area
Container availability varies significantly by region. Port cities have the most selection; inland locations may have limited stock of less common sizes like 10ft and 53ft. Shipped.com lets you filter by size and location to see what's actually available near you.