Certified Shipping Container Tornado Shelter Guide
November 17, 2025
When shipping cargo, the standard width of a container is an important factor in deciding which size to use. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) established standard sizes for containers that are used worldwide. While the most common size is 8 feet wide, other sizes are available with different widths depending on the shipper’s needs and the amount of storage space required.
In this post, let’s explore the various standard shipping container sizes and understand why 8-foot-wide ones are a frequent favorite.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an internationally recognized federation of national standards bodies. ISO consists of more than 160 countries with a single standard body representing each member country.
Groups of people from around the world work together to make new technology, scientific methods, job rules, and social things. These are called national standards organizations. They write about what they do in catalogs called ISO product catalogs.
To facilitate cargo shipments, the ISO devised three categories of container sizes – 20 feet, 40 feet, and 45 feet. Shipping companies can select from multiple possibilities based on the goods that need to be shipped. When buying a 20-foot shipping container, you can pick between two different widths. One is 8 feet 6 inches and the other one is 9 feet 6 inches.
The majority of all ISO shipping containers measure 8 ft. or 2,438 mm wide. ISO Containers that exceed this dimension are grouped into two other size ranges. Alpha characters C, D, E, and F identify containers that are greater than 2,438 mm (8ft), but less than 2,500 mm (8.2 ft). Containers that exceed 2,500 mm are referenced by L, M, N, and P.
A standard wind and water-tight ISO container of 20ft is the most popular of all and is used by ships of all sizes, big or small. The twenty-foot container dimensions are as follows:
Exterior Dimensions:
Interior Dimensions:
A twenty-foot storage shipping container can hold a lot of cargo: 30,480kg (or 67,200 lbs). A 20 ft reefer container can also hold 27 400 kg. If you need more space to store things, special containers are available. These containers have double doors and can hold up to 45000 kg (99207 lbs).
A 40-foot container is twice as big as a 20-foot container but only costs 15-25% more. It makes the 40ft containers the most cost-efficient shipping container for goods carriage by ship.
Exterior Dimensions:
Interior Dimensions:
A 40ft shipping container can hold up to 30,480kg (67,200lbs) of weight. It can hold even more if the container is a Flatrack or Reefer. A Flatrack can carry up to 60,000kg (123,276lbs), and a Reefer can carry 35,000 kg (77,161lbs).
The height of a High Cube Shipping Container is 9 feet 6 inches, which is 1 foot taller than the standard height of a shipping container that measures 8 feet 6 inches. Typically, high-cube shipping containers are 8 feet wide and either 40 feet or 45 feet long. If you plan to convert a container into a tiny home or office, consider using these containers. They have a taller ceiling which creates a more spacious feeling and allows for better insulation if necessary.
External dimensions:
Internal dimensions:
The above specifications are a representation of the commonly used containers. Specific container dimensions and capacity of the ISO containers may vary depending on the manufacturer, the age of the container, and the container owner.
To discover more details about the various types of container specifications, click this handy link for comprehensive information.
The 8-foot width shipping container is the most popular size because it allows for a wide range of cargo from bulky items to palletized goods and offers the most reasonable rate among the other sizes. The cubic capacity of a 20ft container with an 8-foot width is 33.2 cubic m, which can be easily loaded and unloaded by a standard forklift.
The 8ft width also fits the standard size for shipping and can be easily moved around ports and terminals without any hassles. Moreover, the 8-feet containers are more secure compared to other sizes. They offer protection against theft, dampness, and other external damage. The higher security also makes the 8-foot containers more expensive compared to the others.
Overall, the 8-foot width shipping container is an efficient choice for those who need to transport different types of goods in large quantities at a reasonable cost. It is easy to handle and provides maximum security for the cargo it carries.
When evaluating 20-foot containers, individuals can choose between widths of 8 feet 6 inches or 9 feet 6 inches. The decision hinges on their specific needs and budget. Regardless of the shipping container length chosen, both options ensure secure transportation of goods at reasonable costs.
Shipping containers are crucial for global trade, with the 8-foot wide container being the most popular choice. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sets the standards for these containers, ensuring they are reliable and consistent.
The 8-foot wide container is versatile, cost-effective, and secure, making it ideal for transporting various goods. It fits standard handling equipment and offers good protection for cargo.
Additionally, flat rack and open top containers provide solutions for cargo that doesn’t fit in standard containers. Different sizes, like the high-cube options, provide extra flexibility for unique needs, such as converting containers into homes or offices.
In summary, knowing the dimensions and benefits of the 8-foot wide shipping container helps shippers make better choices. These containers are efficient, secure, and affordable, making them essential for shipping goods around the world.
Are you in search of a trustworthy shipping container? On-Site Storage Solutions is the answer to your needs. Our inventory consists of containers that are compliant with ISO’s stringent standards and can be adapted to any venture. With an extensive range of options, rest assured that we will provide you with nothing short of exceptional quality. Get in touch at (888) 405-8772 and start making your project happen today!
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