What size shipping containers can you buy?

Posted on December 1, 2020 by Container Stop
Examples of standard and high cube container

For the past decade or two, the different ways to use a shipping container – other than moving cargo from one continent to another – has exploded. Because of their sturdy composition, security, and weather resistance, these steel boxes are a great option for exterior portable storage.

Storage use can be seen in residential, industrial, and commercial applications. Housing overflow inventory during a seasonal sale at a tire shop to protecting agricultural or construction equipment or materials when not in use to name a few. The key is finding the right size of shipping containers, both to hold your stuff and fit in the available space.

Shipping Container Sizes

When looking for shipping containers online, there are a few standard sizes when it comes to length, width, and height. The width of the vast majority of shipping containers is roughly eight feet, a little less when you consider interior dimensions. Shipping containers also come in a standard height of 8 ½ feet as well as a high cube container that’s a foot taller.

There are a few standard lengths for most shipping containers: 20 ft, 40 ft, and 45 feet. So when looking to buy shipping containers, you’re basically going to be left with these options. If you’re looking for something a little more “custom,” you’ve come to the right place.

Custom Shipping Container Sizes

Container Stop offers all of the traditional shipping container sizes, in different grades, all of which are wind and water tight (WWT). We like to say our containers will stand up to any storm. But what if you need something a little out of the ordinary, most likely because you don’t have the space for a 40-foot container, but still have storage needs.

While we can’t alter the container width or height due to structural consideration, we can give you almost any length of the container you need. We’ve even custom made containers down to five feet in length! Something that size isn’t the norm of course – but that’s why Container Stop is here: to give you the custom storage space you need.

When choosing the right size for your use, consider the space limitations. If you’re a commercial client, you’ll want to be as close to your extra inventory as possible. If that means placing a container in the back of your shop, take the time to measure the available space.

Most commercial buildings will be at least 40 feet in width, if not more. Just make sure you take into consideration garbage facilities, utilities, and other obstacles that may get in the way. Or consider another area to place the storage that won’t interfere with day-to-day operations – or your customers.

Finally, don’t forget about the delivery of your container. You may have the perfect area for a 27-foot storage container, but is Container Stop going to have the maneuverability to put it in place? Even if we bring a forklift or you have a crane, elbow room has to be a consideration. If we need a tilt bed truck to deliver your container, there needs to be enough space to get the truck in – and out – of the area.

When trying to decide what size shipping containers you can buy, don’t feel limited by the traditional sizes. With Container Stop, you’ll be able to order just about any length of storage you need. Want shelving, personal doors, windows, and more? We can take care of those needs as well, in addition to installing utilities like power and plumbing.

As we like to say, it’s our box and your dream. Fill out a request form to let us know what you’re working on. We’ve built construction office spaces for a job site, auxiliary dwelling units, rooftop bars, and more. We can’t wait to hear what you have in store for your shipping container.

Our Box, Your Dream!

We’ve built cabins, garden sheds, and tack rooms with our containers. Have an idea for your shipping container? Let us know!

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