Standard vs High Cube Shipping Containers: What Is the Difference?
When you shop for a 20ft or 40ft container you will see two versions: standard and high cube. They look almost the same, but the difference matters for some uses.
The key difference: one extra foot
A standard container is 8’6″ tall on the outside. A high cube is 9’6″ tall. Length and width are the same, so the high cube simply gives you a taller box.
| Standard | High cube | |
|---|---|---|
| Outside height | 8’6″ | 9’6″ |
| Inside height (approx.) | 7’10” | 8’10” |
| Door opening height (approx.) | 7’6″ | 8’5″ |
| 40ft volume (approx.) | 2,390 cu ft | 2,700 cu ft |
When a high cube is worth it
- Offices, workshops and living spaces. Insulation, wall panels and a ceiling can take several inches off each surface. A high cube still leaves comfortable headroom afterwards.
- Tall items. Machinery, ladders standing upright, tall shelving and stacked pallets all fit more easily.
- Maximum storage. About 12% more volume for the same footprint means fewer containers on site.
When a standard container is fine
- General storage of boxes, furniture, tools and stock that do not need the height
- Sites with low overhead clearance, such as under trees or near carports
- When you want the lowest price for the floor space
Anything else to know?
High cubes are easy to spot: they usually carry hazard-striped markings along the top edge of the doors. They weigh slightly more and cost a little more, but delivery is the same flat $350 per container. Also check that your delivery route has enough overhead clearance for the taller unit.
Shop by height
- 20ft high cube containers
- 40ft high cube containers
- 20ft standard containers
- 40ft standard containers
Planning a conversion? We also offer container modifications. Request a custom quote to get started.