Understanding the Dimensions of a 40-Foot High Cube Shipping Container

When exploring 40 foot high cube shipping container dimensions, it helps to get a quick overview of the most important measurements:
External Dimensions:
– Length: 40 feet (12.192 meters)
– Width: 8 feet (2.438 meters)
– Height: 9 feet 6 inches (2.896 meters)
Internal Dimensions:
– Length: 39 feet 4 inches (12.032 meters)
– Width: 7 feet 8 inches (2.348 meters)
– Height: 8 feet 9 inches (2.699 meters)
Weight:
– Tare Weight: 4,000 kg
– Gross Weight: 30,480 kg

Let’s dive in to explore further, as these containers are crucial for global trade and versatile storage solutions. These containers revolutionized the way we transport goods, offering around 76 cubic meters of usable capacity. The additional foot of height compared to standard containers makes them ideal for voluminous or stacked goods. They can hold up to 25 Euro pallet stacks or 21 standard American pallets, illustrating their capacity for efficient space use.

I’m Steve Hyndman, Vice President of Aztec Container, with over 30 years of expertise in the shipping container industry. My background ensures you’re getting the most accurate and useful information about 40-foot high cube shipping container dimensions.

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What is a 40-Foot High Cube Shipping Container?

A 40-foot high cube shipping container is a type of container that is similar to the standard 40-foot container but offers extra height. This additional height makes it a popular choice for transporting and storing goods that require more vertical space.

Definition and Structure

A 40-foot high cube container measures 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 9 feet 6 inches in height. This extra foot of height compared to standard containers allows for more efficient stacking and loading of goods.

Container Structure - 40 foot high cube shipping container dimensions

Key Features:
Length: 40 feet (12.19 meters)
Width: 8 feet (2.44 meters)
Height: 9 feet 6 inches (2.9 meters)

Comparison to Standard Containers

Standard 40-foot containers are 8 feet 6 inches tall, which is a foot shorter than high cube containers. This extra height in high cube containers provides several advantages:

  • Increased Volume: High cube containers offer about 76 cubic meters of usable space, compared to 67 cubic meters in standard containers.
  • Stacking Efficiency: With more vertical space, goods can be stacked higher, maximizing the use of available space.
  • Versatility: High cube containers are ideal for transporting tall or bulky items that wouldn’t fit in standard containers.

Standard vs. High Cube Comparison:

Feature Standard 40-Foot High Cube 40-Foot
Length 40 feet 40 feet
Width 8 feet 8 feet
Height 8 feet 6 inches 9 feet 6 inches
Usable Volume 67 cubic meters 76 cubic meters
Pallet Capacity 23 Euro pallets 25 Euro pallets

Practical Applications

High cube containers are widely used in various industries due to their enhanced capacity and versatility. They are particularly beneficial for:

  • International Transport and Shipping: Ideal for maximizing cargo volume.
  • Logistics Challenges with Bulky Loads: Perfect for transporting large or oddly-shaped items.
  • Storage of Goods with Deviating Dimensions: Suitable for storing taller or stacked goods.
  • Business Storage and Warehouses: Provides efficient use of vertical space in storage facilities.

In summary, the 40-foot high cube shipping container offers more space and flexibility than standard containers, making it a valuable asset for many transportation and storage needs.

External Dimensions of a 40-Foot High Cube Shipping Container

Understanding the 40-foot high cube shipping container dimensions is crucial for efficient planning and utilization. Let’s break down its external measurements in both imperial and metric units.

Length

  • Imperial: 40 feet
  • Metric: 12,192 millimeters

The length of the 40-foot high cube container is the same as a standard 40-foot container. This uniformity simplifies stacking and transport logistics.

Width

  • Imperial: 8 feet
  • Metric: 2,438 millimeters

The width also matches that of standard containers, ensuring compatibility with various modes of transportation such as ships, trucks, and trains.

Height

  • Imperial: 9 feet 6 inches
  • Metric: 2,896 millimeters

The height is where the high cube container stands out. It’s 1 foot (or approximately 30 centimeters) taller than a standard 40-foot container. This extra height significantly increases the container’s volume, making it ideal for transporting and storing taller items.

Quick Reference Table

Dimension Imperial Metric
Length 40 feet 12,192 mm
Width 8 feet 2,438 mm
Height 9 feet 6 inches 2,896 mm

Why These Dimensions Matter

The additional height of the high cube container allows for better space utilization, particularly in scenarios involving bulky or tall items. This makes it a preferred choice for many industries, from logistics to warehousing.

Understanding these dimensions helps in planning and optimizing the loading process, ensuring that you can make the most out of the available space.

Next, we’ll dive into the internal dimensions of the 40-foot high cube shipping container.

Internal Dimensions of a 40-Foot High Cube Shipping Container

The internal dimensions of a 40-foot high cube shipping container are crucial for maximizing the use of space. Let’s break down these dimensions and see how they translate into usable capacity.

Length, Width, and Height

  • Length: 39 feet 6 inches (12,032 mm)
  • Width: 7 feet 9 inches (2,352 mm)
  • Height: 8 feet 10 inches (2,698 mm)

These measurements provide a substantial interior space, ideal for various types of cargo.

Usable Capacity

The usable capacity of a 40-foot high cube container is 76 cubic meters (2,698 cubic feet). This increased capacity compared to standard containers makes it suitable for transporting and storing bulkier or taller items.

Euro Pallets

For Euro pallets, which measure 1.2 meters by 0.8 meters, the 40-foot high cube container can hold up to 25 pallets if the load is not hanging over the sides. The optimal arrangement is typically one row along the length and another row along the width. This ensures efficient use of space and stability during transport.

American Pallets

The standard American pallet measures 40 inches by 48 inches (1.016 meters by 1.219 meters). The base of a 40-foot high cube container can accommodate up to 21 American pallets, again assuming no overhang. This capacity is slightly less than that for Euro pallets due to the larger size of American pallets.

Why These Dimensions Matter

Understanding these internal dimensions and capacities is essential for planning and optimizing your shipping and storage needs. Whether you are transporting goods across the ocean or storing items in a warehouse, knowing how many pallets fit and the overall usable space can save time and cost.

Next, we’ll explore the door dimensions and openings of the 40-foot high cube shipping container.

Door Dimensions and Openings

Door Width and Height

The doors of a 40-foot high cube shipping container are designed for easy access and maximum utility. The door width is 2.340 meters (7 feet 8 inches), and the door height is 2.597 meters (8 feet 6 inches). This generous size allows for the entry and exit of large items, making it ideal for various applications.

Ease of Access

Ease of access is a standout feature of these containers. The doors open wide, allowing for straightforward loading and unloading. This is particularly useful in settings like construction sites, warehouses, and storage facilities where quick and efficient access to stored items is crucial.

Robust Security Features

These containers come with 4 vertical cremones, providing sturdy and secure closures. This ensures that the doors remain tightly sealed during transport or storage, protecting the contents from the elements and unauthorized access.

Practical Applications

For businesses that need to move large equipment or bulky goods, the wide and tall door dimensions are a significant advantage. For example, a construction company can easily fit large machinery through the doors, while a logistics firm can swiftly load and unload pallets of goods.

By understanding the door dimensions and openings of a 40-foot high cube shipping container, you can better plan for your storage and transportation needs. Next, let’s look at the weight specifications of these versatile containers.

Weight Specifications

Understanding the weight specifications of a 40-foot high cube shipping container is crucial for efficient logistics and cost management. Here, we’ll break down the key elements: tare weight, payload, and maximum gross weight.

Tare Weight

The tare weight is the weight of the empty container itself. For a 40-foot high cube container, this typically ranges from 3,730 kg (8,223 lbs) to 4,200 kg (9,259 lbs). This weight includes the structure of the container but not any cargo inside.

Payload

Payload refers to the maximum weight of the cargo that the container can safely carry. A 40-foot high cube container can handle a payload of approximately 26,580 kg (58,450 lbs) to 28,770 kg (63,427 lbs). This capacity makes it suitable for transporting a wide range of goods, from heavy machinery to large quantities of lighter items.

Maximum Gross Weight

The maximum gross weight is the total weight of the container when it is fully loaded, including both the tare weight and the payload. For a 40-foot high cube container, this can reach up to 30,480 kg (67,308 lbs) to 32,500 kg (71,650 lbs).

Summary Table

Specification Weight (kg) Weight (lbs)
Tare Weight 3,730 – 4,200 8,223 – 9,259
Payload 26,580 – 28,770 58,450 – 63,427
Maximum Gross Weight 30,480 – 32,500 67,308 – 71,650

Understanding these weight specifications ensures compliance with shipping regulations and helps in selecting the right container for your needs.

Next, let’s explore the capacity and volume of a 40-foot high cube shipping container.

Capacity and Volume

When it comes to 40-foot high cube shipping container dimensions, understanding the capacity and volume is crucial for efficient loading and cost-effective shipping.

Cubic Feet and Cubic Meters

A 40-foot high cube container offers a significant amount of space. Here’s a quick look at its volume:

  • Cubic Feet: 2,698 ft³
  • Cubic Meters: 76.4 m³

This extra volume is particularly useful for transporting large or bulky items, as well as for maximizing the number of smaller items you can fit inside.

Optimal Loading Volume

To make the most of the available space, load the container efficiently. For example, the container can hold up to 25 Euro pallets (1.2m x 0.8m) or 21 American pallets (40” x 48”) without the load hanging over the sides. The optimal way to fit these pallets is by arranging one row along the length and another row along the width.

Stacking Efficiency

The extra height of a high cube container (9’6″ externally) allows for better stacking efficiency. This means you can fit taller items upright or stack more items on top of each other, which is a huge advantage for maximizing space.

For instance, businesses often find high cube containers beneficial for storing taller items like large machinery or stacked goods. This extra foot in height can significantly increase the overall volume, making it a cost-effective choice for many shippers.

Understanding these aspects of capacity and volume ensures you can effectively plan your shipments, avoid unnecessary costs, and make the most out of your container space.

Next, let’s look at the various applications and uses of a 40-foot high cube shipping container.

Applications and Uses

The 40-foot high cube shipping container is incredibly versatile. Its added height and robust structure make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Let’s dive into some of the most common uses:

International Transport

International transport is one of the primary uses for these containers. Their extra height allows for more efficient stacking of goods, which is crucial for maximizing space on cargo ships. According to iContainers, these containers are vital for 90% of non-bulk global trade, making them indispensable in the shipping industry.

Logistics

In the logistics industry, the 40-foot high cube container is a game-changer. Handling bulky loads becomes easier with the extra height, reducing the number of trips needed and cutting down on transport costs. The container’s design also allows for easy stacking and loading, which improves overall efficiency.

Storage

When it comes to storage, these containers offer a practical solution. Their wind and watertight construction ensures that stored items remain safe and dry. The extra height is particularly useful for storing goods with deviating dimensions, such as tall machinery or stacked items.

Business Storage

For businesses, these containers provide an excellent option for storage and warehousing. Companies can use them to store inventory, equipment, or even documents. The containers are durable and secure, making them a reliable choice for long-term storage.

Warehouses

In warehouses, the 40-foot high cube container can be used to optimize space. The extra vertical space allows for higher stacking of goods, which can be a significant advantage in a crowded warehouse environment. This can lead to better organization and more efficient use of space.

These applications highlight the versatility and practicality of the 40-foot high cube shipping container. Whether you’re involved in international transport, logistics, or need storage solutions, this container offers a reliable and efficient option to meet your needs.

Next, we’ll explore the advantages of using a 40-foot high cube shipping container.

Advantages of Using a 40-Foot High Cube Shipping Container

Extra Height

The 40-foot high cube shipping container stands out due to its extra height. It is 30 cm taller than a standard 40-foot container, offering more vertical space. This additional height allows for higher stacking of goods and can accommodate bulky items that wouldn’t fit in a regular container. For instance, businesses dealing with large machinery or stacked pallets benefit from this added vertical room, optimizing storage and transport efficiency.

Cost-Efficiency

Using a high cube container can be more cost-efficient. The extra space means you can transport more goods in a single container, reducing the need for multiple shipments. This can lead to significant savings on shipping costs. Additionally, the durable construction of these containers ensures long-term use, making them a wise investment. For example, a company shipping oversized furniture might save on costs by fitting more pieces into a single high cube container.

Versatility

The versatility of a 40-foot high cube container is unmatched. It serves various purposes, from international shipping to storage solutions. Businesses can use these containers for transporting goods, as temporary storage units, or even for creative repurposing like pop-up shops or mobile offices. The ability to adapt to different needs makes these containers a flexible choice for many industries.

Durability

Constructed from corten steel, these containers are built to last. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and the rigors of sea and land transport. This durability ensures that your goods remain protected, whether in transit or storage. The robust structure and weatherproof design make them a reliable choice for businesses needing secure and long-lasting storage solutions.

Efficiency

The efficiency of using a high cube container cannot be overstated. The extra height simplifies the transportation of items with varying dimensions, streamlining logistics processes. For example, a logistics company managing diverse cargo sizes can load and unload more efficiently, reducing handling time and costs. This leads to smoother operations and better use of available space.

Overall, the 40-foot high cube shipping container offers numerous advantages, making it a preferred option for many businesses. Next, we’ll address some frequently asked questions about these containers.

Frequently Asked Questions about 40-Foot High Cube Shipping Container Dimensions

What are the dimensions of a 40-foot high cube shipping container?

The 40-foot high cube shipping container dimensions are:

  • Exterior:
  • Length: 40 feet (12.192 meters)
  • Width: 8 feet (2.438 meters)
  • Height: 9 feet 6 inches (2.896 meters)

  • Interior:

  • Length: 39 feet 4 inches (12.024 meters)
  • Width: 7 feet 8 inches (2.350 meters)
  • Height: 8 feet 9 inches (2.697 meters)

  • Door Clearance:

  • Width: 7 feet 8 inches (2.340 meters)
  • Height: 8 feet 5 inches (2.597 meters)

These dimensions ensure a larger capacity compared to standard containers, making them ideal for transporting voluminous cargo.

What are the internal dimensions of a 40 open top high cube container?

A 40-foot open top high cube container shares similar internal dimensions with the standard high cube container, with the key difference being the open top for loading oversized items. The internal dimensions are:

  • Length: 39 feet 4 inches (12.024 meters)
  • Width: 7 feet 8 inches (2.350 meters)
  • Height: 8 feet 9 inches (2.697 meters)

This type of container is particularly useful for cargo that exceeds the height of standard containers and requires top-loading.

Is 40 HQ the same as 40 HC?

Yes, 40 HQ and 40 HC refer to the same type of container. Both abbreviations stand for a 40-foot high cube container. The “HQ” stands for “High Quantity” or “High Cube,” and “HC” stands for “High Cube.” These containers are known for their extra foot of height compared to standard 40-foot containers, providing more space for taller items.

Conclusion

In summary, 40-foot high cube shipping containers offer a versatile and efficient solution for various storage and transportation needs. Their extra height compared to standard containers provides additional space, making them ideal for bulky or tall cargo. These containers are built to last, with robust construction that ensures durability and security for your goods.

At Aztec Container, we specialize in providing top-quality 40-foot high cube containers. Our containers are customizable to meet your specific needs, whether you’re looking for a standard storage solution or a more specialized application like climate control or modular workshop setups.

We pride ourselves on offering competitive prices without hidden fees. Our goal is to make the purchase or rental process as straightforward as possible. Plus, we ensure fast delivery to your site, so you can start using your container quickly.

For more information or to explore our customizable solutions, visit our 40-foot containers service page. Let us help you find the perfect container for your needs at a price that fits your budget.