10ft Containers: Tight Spots, Small Overflow
A 10ft container holds about 560 cubic feet, roughly a one-car garage packed floor to ceiling. It works for tool storage, seasonal gear, or a backyard with tight access, since a smaller flatbed or tilt trailer can usually deliver it. Don't use this size for pallets, a full household's worth of belongings, or anything that needs a forklift to unload. It's also the easiest size to resell or move later if your needs change.
20ft Containers: The Workhorse Size
At roughly 1,170 cubic feet, the 20ft container is the most-ordered size for a reason: it fits most residential driveways and lots, holds the contents of a 2-3 bedroom home, and still lets a standard tri-axle delivery truck set it down without extra maneuvering room. Job sites run this size as a secure lockbox, since two people can move pallets or gear in and out without a forklift. When you're not sure, 20ft is the safe, versatile call.
40ft Containers: Bulk Storage and Bigger Builds
A standard 40ft container holds about 2,350 cubic feet, roughly double the 20ft's capacity, without doubling the footprint since the added length is the only change. This is the size to order for a workshop conversion, larger equipment storage, or consolidating a multi-room home. Delivery requires a full-length tilt-bed truck and 60-70 feet of clear, straight approach, so check your driveway and turning space before you order.
High Cube vs Standard Height
Standard containers run 8'6" tall inside; high cube containers add a full extra foot at 9'6", which matters if you're installing shelving, HVAC ductwork, or converting the unit into livable or workshop space. High cube units cost more, but the extra headroom pays off on any conversion. If you're stacking pallets or boxes and don't need the clearance, standard height is the better value.
Match the Container to Your Site Access
Before you commit to a size, walk the drop site and check for overhead power lines, low branches, and at least 10-15 feet of clearance on the approach so the delivery truck can tilt and slide the container into place. A 40ft container needs a firm, level pad, compacted gravel or a concrete strip both work, to keep the doors from racking out of alignment over time. A 10ft or 20ft unit tolerates more grade, but it still belongs on blocks or a prepared surface, not bare dirt.
Frequently asked questions
How much will a 20ft container actually hold?
About 1,170 cubic feet, the equivalent of a fully packed 2-3 bedroom home, furniture and boxes included, or roughly 8-10 standard pallets of goods.
Will a 40ft container fit down a typical driveway?
Usually, if the driveway is straight and at least 8 feet wide. The delivery truck still needs roughly 60-70 feet of clear, straight approach to tilt and slide it into position, so measure your street and driveway length before you order.
Is a high cube container worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you're converting the container into a workshop, office, or living space and need that extra foot of headroom for insulation, ductwork, or shelving. For plain storage, treat it as optional, not essential.
Can two containers be stacked on top of each other?
Standard shipping containers are built to stack when the corners line up on a level, compacted pad. Stacking requires container-grade condition, no serious corner-post rust or damage, and often local permitting, so check your codes before you stack.