20 feet container measurement is an essential piece of information for anyone in need of efficient storage or workspace solutions. The standard dimensions of a 20-foot container are as follows:
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External Dimensions:
- Length: 20 feet
- Width: 8 feet
- Height: 8 feet 6 inches
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Internal Dimensions:
- Length: 19 feet 4 inches
- Width: 7 feet 8 inches
- Height: 7 feet 10 inches
Understanding these dimensions can significantly aid in maximizing the storage capacity and efficiency on-site.
A 20-foot container is a versatile, reliable solution for both storage and workspace needs, especially for small to medium-sized business owners and construction managers. These containers are a popular choice across various industries due to their adaptability—they can be transformed into mobile offices, secure storage units, and even temporary living spaces. Whether you’re storing machinery or using these as pop-up retail spaces, 20-foot containers provide a secure and cost-effective solution.
I’m Steve Hyndman, Vice President at Aztec Container. Over the past 30 years, I have helped leverage the 20 feet container measurement to optimize space for countless individuals and businesses, ensuring the right fit for their needs. Let’s dive deeper into why understanding these measurements is crucial.
Simple 20 feet container measurement word guide:
Dimensions of a 20-Foot Container
When dealing with 20 feet container measurement, it’s important to understand both external and internal dimensions. This knowledge helps in planning how much you can store or transport using these containers.
External Dimensions
The external dimensions are critical for logistics and planning. Here’s what you need to know:
- Length: 20 feet (6.06 meters)
- Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
- Height: 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 meters)
These measurements are standardized to ensure that the container can fit on trucks, ships, and trains globally. The consistency in size also means they can be easily stacked and managed in ports and storage facilities.
Internal Dimensions
The internal dimensions are slightly smaller due to the thickness of the container walls. Here are the internal specs:
- Length: 19 feet 4 inches (5.89 meters)
- Width: 7 feet 8 inches (2.33 meters)
- Height: 7 feet 10 inches (2.4 meters)
The internal space is crucial for calculating the actual usable volume, which is about 1,172 cubic feet or approximately 33 cubic meters. This space is typically enough for the contents of a small home or office setup.
Knowing these dimensions helps in maximizing the use of space, whether you’re packing household goods, business inventory, or setting up a temporary office. The 20 feet container measurement is a key factor in ensuring efficient utilization and cost-effectiveness in storage and transportation.
Weight and Capacity
Understanding the weight and capacity of a 20-foot container is crucial for effective logistics planning. Let’s break it down into three key components: tare weight, max payload, and volume.
Tare Weight
Tare weight is the weight of the empty container. It’s important because it helps calculate the total weight when the container is loaded. For a standard 20-foot container, the tare weight typically ranges from 2,300 kg (5,071 lbs) to 2,360 kg (5,204 lbs).
High-cube containers, which are a bit taller, have a slightly higher tare weight, around 2,420 kg (5,335 lbs). This extra weight is due to the additional materials required for the increased height.
Max Payload
Max payload refers to the maximum weight of cargo that the container can safely carry. For a standard 20-foot container, the max payload is about 21,600 kg (47,620 lbs). This is the weight limit that ensures safe transportation without risking damage to the container or contents.
High-cube containers offer a higher payload capacity, up to 28,060 kg (61,861 lbs). This makes them ideal for transporting heavier or bulkier items that require extra space due to the increased height.
Volume
The volume of a container determines how much space is available for cargo. A standard 20-foot container has a volume of approximately 33 cubic meters (1,172 cubic feet). This space is equivalent to about 150 square feet of floor space, which is useful for planning how to pack items efficiently.
High-cube containers provide even more volume, approximately 37.28 cubic meters (1,316 cubic feet), thanks to their greater height. This extra space can be beneficial for taller items or when stacking goods to maximize the use of the container.
Knowing these specifications helps in choosing the right container type and size for your needs, whether you’re shipping goods overseas or using it for storage. Understanding the 20 feet container measurement ensures that you stay within legal weight limits and make the most of the available space.
Types of 20-Foot Containers
When it comes to shipping and storage, 20-foot containers come in various types to suit different needs. Each type has its own dimensions, weight, and capacity, making it ideal for specific applications. Let’s explore the five main types: Standard, High-Cube, Open Top, Flat Rack, and Reefer.
Standard 20-Foot Container
The Standard 20-Foot Container is the most common type. It measures 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8 feet 6 inches in height. Made from durable Corten steel, it is perfect for transporting dry goods, furniture, and other standard items.
- Dimensions: 20 ft x 8 ft x 8 ft 6 in
- Tare Weight: Approximately 2,300 kg (5,071 lbs)
- Max Payload: Up to 21,600 kg (47,620 lbs)
- Volume: 33 cubic meters (1,172 cubic feet)
High-Cube 20-Foot Container
The High-Cube Container offers an additional foot in height, making it ideal for taller items or when you need extra stacking space.
- Dimensions: 20 ft x 8 ft x 9 ft 6 in
- Tare Weight: Around 2,420 kg (5,335 lbs)
- Max Payload: Up to 28,060 kg (61,861 lbs)
- Volume: 37.28 cubic meters (1,316 cubic feet)
Open Top 20-Foot Container
Open Top Containers are designed for cargo that cannot be easily loaded through the doors, such as heavy machinery or oversized goods. They have a removable, weatherproof tarpaulin instead of a solid roof.
- Dimensions: 20 ft x 8 ft x 8 ft 6 in
- Tare Weight: Similar to standard containers
- Max Payload: Approximately 28,200 kg (62,170 lbs)
- Capacity: 32 cubic meters, allowing for top loading and unloading
Flat Rack 20-Foot Container
The Flat Rack Container is used for heavy loads and oversized cargo that require loading from the top or sides. It features collapsible sides that provide flexibility in loading.
- Dimensions: 20 ft x 8 ft (height varies)
- Tare Weight: Heavier due to reinforced construction
- Max Payload: Up to 27,150 kg (59,850 lbs)
- Capacity: Designed for heavy-duty, non-standard loads
Reefer 20-Foot Container
Reefer Containers, or refrigerated containers, are essential for transporting perishable goods that require temperature control. They come equipped with an integrated refrigeration unit.
- Dimensions: 20 ft x 8 ft x 8 ft 6 in
- Tare Weight: Around 2,750 kg (6,062 lbs)
- Max Payload: Approximately 27,490 kg (60,600 lbs)
- Capacity: 28 cubic meters, with temperature control features
Each type of 20-foot container serves a unique purpose, offering specific features that cater to different needs. Whether you’re shipping dry goods, perishable items, or oversized machinery, there’s a container designed to meet your requirements. Understanding these options helps you choose the right container for your cargo or project.
What Can Fit in a 20-Foot Container?
When planning to use a 20-foot container, understanding what fits inside can help you maximize its utility. These containers are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of items, from household goods to vehicles and pallets.
Household Items
A 20-foot container is perfect for storing the contents of a typical 3-4 bedroom house. This includes furniture like sofas, beds, and dining tables. You can also fit appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines. In addition, it can hold a significant number of boxes filled with personal items, books, and kitchenware.
- Furniture: Dismantling larger pieces can help you save space.
- Boxes: You can fit around 311 standard household boxes, each measuring 45 cm x 45 cm x 45 cm.
Vehicles
For vehicle storage, a 20-foot container can securely house one standard car. It’s also suitable for storing motorcycles, offering protection from weather and theft. This makes it a popular choice for both individuals and businesses needing temporary vehicle storage.
- Cars: Fits one standard vehicle.
- Motorcycles: Ample space for several bikes.
Pallets
If you’re using the container for commercial purposes, understanding how many pallets fit is crucial. A 20-foot container can accommodate:
- Standard Pallets: Up to 10 pallets, each measuring 1.2 m x 1.0 m.
- Euro Pallets: Up to 11 pallets, each measuring 1.2 m x 0.8 m.
Efficient stacking and careful planning can help you maximize space, especially if you’re shipping goods.
Whether you’re moving household items, storing a vehicle, or shipping goods on pallets, a 20-foot container offers the flexibility and capacity to meet various needs. Understanding what fits inside helps you plan effectively and make the most of this versatile storage solution.
Frequently Asked Questions about 20 Feet Container Measurement
What is the size of a 20ft container?
A 20-foot container is a standard unit in shipping and storage. Its external dimensions are approximately 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8 feet 6 inches in height. This translates to around 6.06 meters long, 2.44 meters wide, and 2.59 meters high.
Internally, the dimensions are slightly smaller due to the container’s walls and structure. The internal dimensions typically measure about 19 feet 4 inches in length, 7 feet 8 inches in width, and 7 feet 10 inches in height (5.89 meters x 2.33 meters x 2.4 meters).
Understanding these dimensions is crucial for planning the storage or transportation of goods within a container.
How much weight can a 20ft container hold?
The weight capacity of a 20-foot container is defined by two key metrics: tare weight and max payload.
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Tare Weight: This is the weight of the empty container itself, which usually ranges from 2,300 kg (5,071 lbs) to 2,360 kg (5,204 lbs).
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Max Payload: This represents the maximum weight of the cargo that the container can safely carry. For most 20-foot containers, this can be up to 28,180 kg (62,130 lbs).
The total weight, or gross weight, is the sum of the tare weight and the max payload, reaching up to about 30,480 kg (67,200 lbs). This weight limit ensures safe transportation and compliance with international shipping regulations.
How many pallets fit in a 20ft container?
The ability to fit pallets efficiently is essential for businesses using containers for shipping goods. A 20-foot container can hold different numbers of pallets depending on their size:
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Standard Pallets: Measuring 1.2 meters x 1.0 meter (approximately 47 inches x 39 inches), you can fit up to 10 of these pallets in a single tier.
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Euro Pallets: Slightly smaller at 1.2 meters x 0.8 meters (about 47 inches x 31 inches), a 20-foot container can accommodate up to 11 Euro pallets.
Stacking and arranging pallets efficiently within the container can help maximize space usage, especially for commercial shipping needs.
Understanding these aspects of 20 feet container measurement helps in planning and optimizing the use of these versatile storage and transportation units.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the 20 feet container measurement is essential for anyone looking to optimize storage and transportation efficiency. These containers offer a practical solution for a variety of needs, from moving household items to shipping vehicles and pallets. With their standardized dimensions and robust weight capacity, they provide a reliable means to handle diverse cargo.
At Aztec Container, we specialize in providing high-quality 20-foot containers custom to meet your specific requirements. Whether you need a standard container for storage or a customized unit for a unique project, we have the expertise and resources to deliver solutions that align with your goals. Our offerings include competitive pricing, fast delivery, and a range of customization options to ensure you get the most value from your investment.
For more information on our 20-foot containers, visit our 20-Foot Containers page. Here, you’ll find detailed specifications, customization options, and the ability to request a quote. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact our team. We’re here to help you find the perfect container solution for your needs.
