How to Choose the Right Size Shipping Container

The size of a shipping container affects everything from cost to delivery to what you can do with it. 

Cleveland Containers stocks containers from 6ft to 45ft across the UK, available for sale or hire, and this guide covers the full range, what each size is best suited for, and what to check before ordering.

Shipping Container Sizes and What They Are Used For

Most buyers start with footprint. A container that is too small means running out of space mid-project; one that is too large means paying for floor area you do not need. The table below covers every size in the Cleveland Containers range, from the most compact storage units through to the largest.

For full internal and external dimensions across every size, see dimensions page. 

Technical drawings are available to download from the downloads page.

Small containers: 6ft, 8ft, and 10ft

Small containers suit situations where space is limited, access is restricted, or the storage requirement is modest. A 6ft container is the most compact option, suited to domestic gardens, allotments, and tight urban sites. An 8ft container offers a step up in capacity while still fitting where a larger unit cannot. A 10ft container suits small-to-medium storage on residential or commercial sites and is a practical, secure alternative to a shed or lockup.

One thing worth noting: smaller containers are not always cheaper than a 20ft. Because they are shipped internationally in smaller quantities, the cost per unit can be comparable to or exceed that of a 20ft. If budget is a consideration, it is worth getting a quote across sizes before deciding.

20ft container

The 20ft container is the most popular size stocked by Cleveland Containers. It suits the majority of commercial storage applications, construction sites, and bespoke conversions. With a floor area of 13.9m² and a cubic capacity of 33.2m³, it provides substantial storage without an oversized footprint. It is available in standard and high cube configurations, new and used, for hire or sale.

30ft container

30ft containers are cut down from larger units, which means dimensions can vary slightly. They suit sites where a 40ft would be too long but a 20ft is not quite enough. With a floor area of 21m² and a cubic capacity of 50.3m³, they offer a practical middle ground for medium-to-large storage requirements.

Large containers: 40ft and 45ft

40ft containers are the choice for high-volume storage, large-scale site operations, and projects that need maximum internal space without the premium of a 45ft unit. With a floor area of 28.3m² and a cubic capacity of 67.7m³, they are available in standard and high cube configurations, new and used, for hire or sale.

45ft containers are the largest size Cleveland Containers stocks and are available in used condition only, in high cube configuration. They are an uncommon size with more limited stock than 40ft units. They suit bulk storage and logistics operations where maximum internal volume is the priority. If a 45ft is needed, it is worth confirming availability with the Cleveland Containers team at the point of enquiry.

Standard or High Cube?

Once you have identified the right footprint, the next decision is whether you need a standard or high cube container.

The extra foot of internal height on a high cube container makes a practical difference when storing tall items, fitting racking, or converting the container into a workspace. For straightforward storage where height is not a constraint, a standard container is sufficient and typically easier to source in used condition.

High cube containers are available from Cleveland Containers in 20ft and 40ft configurations. All 45ft containers stocked by Cleveland Containers are high cube.

What If a Standard Container Does Not Fit Your Use Case?

Standard and high cube containers suit the majority of storage and site applications. For specific operational requirements, we also stock a range of specialist container types.

• Side opening containers have full-length doors along one side, giving easy access to the entire floor area. Suited to loading and unloading bulky or wide items where end-door access alone is not practical.
• Tunnel containers have doors at both ends, allowing straight-through access. Used where pass-through loading is operationally useful.
• Open top containers have no roof, allowing cargo to be loaded from above by crane or forklift. Used for oversized loads that cannot pass through end doors.
• Refrigerated containers maintain a controlled temperature environment for perishable goods and temperature-sensitive storage.
• Flat pack containers are modular units assembled on site, suited to locations where HIAB delivery is not possible.
• Chemical storage containers are purpose-built for hazardous substances, with bunded flooring, ventilation, and hazard signage as standard.
  

Explore full specialised containers range from Cleveland Containers

Will It Fit on My Site?

Size is only half the decision. Before ordering, run through these practical checks:

• Space on site. Measure the available footprint carefully, allowing clearance on all sides for access and door opening. A 40ft container requires significantly more turning clearance for delivery than a 20ft.
• Ground conditions. The ground needs to be firm, level, and stable. Soft or uneven ground can affect safe delivery and long-term stability. For full guidance on site preparation, see the Cleveland Containers delivery guide.
• Vehicle access. Most containers are delivered by HIAB lorry, which requires reasonable access for a large vehicle. Narrow lanes, low bridges, and restricted entrances can affect which sizes can be delivered.
• Flat pack alternatives. For sites where HIAB access is not possible, flat pack containers arrive as individual panels that can be carried through restricted access routes and assembled on site without lifting equipment.

If you are unsure whether your site can accommodate the size you need, contact the Cleveland Containers team before placing an order. Delivery locations can be checked against Cleveland Containers' 20+ depot locations to confirm coverage and lead times for your area.

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