After condition, size is the biggest decision when buying a container. The two most popular options — the 20ft and the 40ft — cover the vast majority of storage and project needs. Here is how to choose between them without overpaying for space you will not use.
The Numbers at a Glance
- 20ft standard: ~20′ × 8′ × 8′6″ exterior — about 160 sq ft of floor and roughly 1,170 cubic feet of storage.
- 40ft standard: ~40′ × 8′ × 8′6″ exterior — about 320 sq ft and roughly 2,390 cubic feet.
- High Cube versions of either add a full foot of interior height (9′6″), valuable for tall cargo and conversions.
When a 20ft Container Wins
The 20ft is our most popular size for good reason. It is easier to deliver, fits tighter sites, and costs noticeably less — while still holding the contents of a typical two-to-three bedroom home or a job site full of tools and materials.
- Limited yard, driveway, or lot space.
- General storage, equipment, seasonal inventory.
- You may relocate the container later (a 20ft is far simpler to move).
When a 40ft Container Wins
If you are storing large inventory, vehicles, long materials, or planning a conversion with room to spare, the 40ft delivers the best cost-per-square-foot. Two 40ft units often cost less than four 20ft units while consolidating everything in one place.
- Bulk storage, pallet racking, or long lumber and pipe.
- Container offices, workshops, or multi-room builds.
- Businesses that want to minimize the number of deliveries.
Don’t Forget Delivery Access
A 40ft container needs significantly more room to deliver and place. A tilt-bed truck requires a clear, roughly level run about 100 feet long to set a 40ft unit, versus far less for a 20ft. Measure your gate width, overhead clearance, and turning room before you order. Our site preparation guide walks through exactly what to check.
Quick Decision Guide
- Tight site or smaller load? Go 20ft.
- Big load or future conversion? Go 40ft.
- Tall cargo either way? Choose the High Cube.
Still unsure? Compare live dimensions and pricing in our container shop, or ask an Atlas specialist — we will help you size it right the first time. Every unit ships with free freight and a 30-day return policy.