20ft container dimensions

The dimensions of a 20ft container are standardised, as are all containers regulated by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). Maintaining consistent sizing guarantees that freight can be safely loaded by cranes onto trucks or ships.

Shippers who frequently import and export goods should be familiar with 20ft container dimensions, as these are one of the most commonly used types (consult our 40ft container dimensions blog for information on the second most-used kind of shipping unit!)

However, it’s important to give yourself a refresher. To learn more about the external and internal dimensions of a 20ft container (and exactly what you can fit), stick with Freight Broker.

External dimensions of a 20ft container

A standard 20 foot shipping container has the following external dimensions:

  • Length: 20 feet

  • Width: 8 feet

  • Height: 8 feet 6 inches

Internal dimensions of a 20ft container

The internal dimensions of a 20ft container are as follows:

  • Length: 19 feet 4 inches

  • Width: 7 feet 9 inches

  • Height: 7 feet 10 inches

20ft container dimensions

20ft container dimensions in metres

If you’re measuring 20ft shipping container dimensions in metric (metres) and not imperial (feet), here are the converted measurements:
External dimensions

  • Length: 6.058-6.096 metres

  • Width: 2.43-2.45 metres

  • Height: 2.59 metres


Internal dimensions

  • Length: 5.89 metres

  • Width: 2.35 metres

  • Height: 2.39 metres

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What’s the maximum load for a 20 foot container?

A standard 20 foot shipping container has a tare weight (empty weight) of approximately 2,300 kg. The maximum gross weight (which includes the container's tare weight plus the weight of the cargo) is typically around 24,000 kg.

This means that the maximum load capacity (the weight of the cargo that can be loaded) is approximately 21 tons. However, actual load limits can vary based on several factors:

  • Shipping line restrictions: Different shipping companies may impose their own weight limits based on safety protocols and equipment capabilities.

  • Nature of cargo: The type of goods being shipped can influence weight restrictions, especially if the cargo is dense or requires special handling.

  • Regulatory limitations: Local and international regulations may dictate maximum allowable weights for transportation, which can affect the amount of cargo that can be loaded into the container.


Volume and capacity


Knowing the 20ft container size, both internally and externally, means we can calculate the available floor area (capacity) and volume:

Volume: A standard 20 foot shipping container offers an internal volume of approximately 33 cubic metres (1,165 cubic feet).
Floor area: The available floor area is 160 square feet (or 33m³).
Useable storage capacity: Due to structural elements and practical loading considerations, the useable storage space is typically around 28 cubic metres (988.8 cubic feet)

How much can you fit into a 20 foot container?

Contents-wise, a 20ft container can accommodate a range of goods. 20ft container dimensions can typically accommodate the contents of a 3-4 bedroom house, including furniture, appliances, and personal items (like bikes, lamps or desks).

They could also fit one or two passenger vehicles (provided the dimensions and weight are within the container's capacity).

However, a 20ft shipping container’s dimensions can store more or less than what we’ve described: it all depends on how efficiently you pack and if they can be stacked.

Disassembling furniture, using uniform-sized boxes, and strategic placement can create more space.

How many boxes fit in a 20 foot container?

The number of boxes that can fit into a 20 foot container depends on the dimensions of the boxes and how efficiently they are packed. Standard UK shipping boxes come in a range of sizes:

  • Small: 230 mm wide x 240 mm high x 300 mm long. Approximately 1,647 boxes.

  • Medium: 457 mm wide x 305 mm high x 457 mm long. Approximately 466 boxes.

  • Large: 457 mm wide x 610 mm high x and 457 mm long. Approximately 215 boxes.

  • Extra large: 457 mm wide x 610 mm high x 610 mm long. Approximately 164 boxes.

How many pallets can fit into a 20 foot container?

The number of pallets that can fit into a 20 foot container depends on the pallet size and loading configuration:

  • Standard American pallets: Up to 10 pallets can be loaded into a 20-foot container (48" x 40" or 1.219m x 1.016m).

  • Euro pallets: Up to 11 pallets can fit within the same container (1.2m x 0.8m).


These figures assume optimal loading without overhang and don’t account for potential double-stacking, which could increase capacity if the cargo's weight and height permit.

Get the best rate for your freight with Freight Broker!

Even the most experienced shippers should know why understanding 20ft container dimensions is essential for cost management.

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