SOUTH AFRICA CONTAINER SIZE GUIDE
10 ft, 20 ft and 40 ft shipping container sizes.
Length is only the starting point. Compare access, usable volume, internal height, door opening and final application before choosing a unit.
Container dimensions at a glance
Measurements below are practical approximations for common dry containers. Individual equipment series can differ, and converted units lose internal space when insulation, lining or services are added.
| Container | Approx. external size | Approx. internal size | Indicative volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ft standard | 2.99 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 2.83 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | About 16 m³ |
| 20 ft standard | 6.06 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | About 33.2 m³ |
| 40 ft standard | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.59 m | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.39 m | About 67.7 m³ |
| 40 ft high cube | 12.19 × 2.44 × 2.90 m | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.70 m | About 76.4 m³ |
Indicative industry dimensions and capacity; equipment varies. See the Maersk equipment reference and confirm the specific unit offered.
10 ft containers
Compact 10-foot units suit sites with restricted space and lower storage demand. They are often requested for tools, guard huts, compact ablutions and small kiosks. Their shorter length can help on confined sites, but truck access and off-loading space are still required.
View standard containers →20 ft containers
The 20-foot container is a versatile balance of capacity, site footprint and transport practicality. Common applications include general storage, refrigerated storage, offices, kitchens, ablutions and retail conversions.
View office containers →40 ft containers
A 40-foot container provides significantly more volume, but it needs a longer level foundation, greater delivery clearance and more turning space. High-cube units are valuable for bulky stock and spacious conversions.
View high-cube containers →What changes after conversion?
Insulation, internal boards, flooring, ceilings, partitions, plumbing and equipment reduce usable dimensions. A kitchen or ablution also needs working clearances and service access. Ask for a proposed internal layout before approving a converted container.
Send the intended use, preferred size, destination, available footprint, door direction and any height or access restrictions.
SIZE QUESTIONS
Frequently asked.
What is the most common shipping container size in South Africa?
20-foot and 40-foot containers are the main standard sizes. The right choice depends on usable volume, access, intended use and the cost of delivery.
What is the difference between a standard and high-cube container?
A high-cube container is approximately 300 mm taller externally than a standard unit, providing extra internal height and volume.
Will the quoted internal dimensions always be exact?
No. Internal dimensions, door openings, tare mass and payload vary by manufacturer, equipment series, age and modification. Confirm the data plate and measurements of the offered unit.