Shipping and storage containers come in all shapes and sizes for different uses and implementations.

For businesses, shipping containers can be used for their original purpose of shipping merchandise. And, they can be used for extra storage as either a solid part of your logistics mechanism or a short stop-gap until a warehouse is available.

However, depending on your needs, you’ll have to pick the right-sized shipping container in order to prevent wasting money on useless space or not having enough room to ship your merchandise all in one go.

Wondering how big is a shipping container needs to be? Keep on reading to learn all about the different sizes available on the market and what they’re most suitable for.

How Big Is a Shipping Container?

There are three main sizes available on the market. From 10-foot storage containers up to humongous 40-foot ones, each comes with their own special perks.

10-Foot Containers

These are the entry-level sized containers. 

Considered to be quite economic in size, these containers tend to be large enough for most residential buyers’ needs or for small businesses.

If you’re looking for extra storage space with a minimalist design, then a 10-foot container can work beautifully for you.

It can be used as a great portable storage solution, where you can put all excessive (but important) equipment out of sight.

However, you’ll have to keep an eye out for clutter or ill-used space, because every single foot counts here.

Moreover, if you’re planning on shipping a minimal amount of merchandise or you’re just starting, sticking with the 10-foot container can be cost-effective for your business. As it were, it keeps getting more expensive as we go bigger.

20-Foot Containers

This container size is the comfortable middle for many businesses. It follows the ideal of not-too-big and not-too-small for most companies’ needs. 

Same as the 10-foot storage containers, the sky is the limit in terms of usage. Whether you have storage in mind or straightforward shipping, a 20-foot container can be quite versatile.

A great way of using a 20-foot container is for the storage or shipment of vehicles. It can hold most residential vehicles as well as pickup trucks with no issues regarding space.

There are so many innovative business ideas for small shipping containers that can add immense value to your company.

40-Foot Containers

These containers are big enough to be looked at as portable storage warehouses, temporary office spaces or even school classrooms.

They are among the largest options available on the market. In addition to the tremendous amount of space for shipping huge equipment, they can be customized according to your preferred specifications.

For example, they can be set up to be full-side open units, which are perfect for materials and products that are fragile or sensitive in nature.They can be set up to be climate-controlled and refrigerated.

Ready to Get Your Container Game On?

Now you know all about how big a shipping container needs to be to suit your business. For even more details check out this article which outlines buying containers for sale in Houston.

Want even more information? Check out our resources section for the latest container tips and advice.