Stacks of colourful shipping containers at a busy container yard, with cranes in the background under a clear blue sky.Choosing the Right Shipping Container Size in Australia: Save Costs & Maximise Usable Space

How to Choose the Right Shipping Container Size in Australia?

Selecting the correct shipping container dimensions is one of the most important steps when planning freight, storage, or modular workspace solutions in Australia. Whether you’re shipping overseas, setting up an on-site office, or simply storing goods, choosing the right size can help you cut costs, increase operational efficiency, and ensure you’re not paying for unused space. In this guide, we’ll cover common container sizes, their internal volumes, and how to pick the best one for your needs — including options tailored for Australian businesses.

What Sizes Do Shipping Containers Come In?

Before we break down standard sea container sizes, it’s important to understand exactly what these numbers refer to.

Shipping container sizes describe the length rather than the volume. This is because the standard shipping container dimensions are 8 feet (2.55m) wide and 8 feet 6 inches (2.59m) tall. Unless otherwise specified, it’s only the length that will vary.

The most common sizes are 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft. A 10ft container can normally hold two to four standard, unstacked pallets and will fit in most parking spaces. In contrast, a 20ft container should fit around eight to ten standard pallets, or the contents of most apartments. 

However, depending on where you source your shipping container, you can select from a much wider variety of sea container sizes. Here at CBOX, we stock the following shipping container sizes: 6ft, 8ft, 10ft, 20ft and 40ft. This means you’ll never find yourself paying for container space and storage that you don’t need.

Q: What’s the most commonly used container size for general use in Australia?
A: The 20ft container is the most common size used in Australia due to its versatility for both shipping and on-site storage.

High Cube Container Dimensions

Although standard containers are 8 feet 6 inches (2.59m) tall, you can elect for a taller high cube container.

High cube containers are an extra foot (30cm) tall. This might not sound like a lot, but it quickly adds up when you’re storing and transporting goods. In fact, a 20ft high cube container offers you an additional 160 feet of space.

This makes high-cube containers an excellent option when height doesn’t matter and you need as much volume as possible. They also work well when you have limited floor space.

Q: When should I choose a high cube container over a standard one?
A: Choose a high cube container when your cargo is lightweight but voluminous, or when converting containers into workspaces or accommodation.

Other Factors That Can Affect Shipping Container Size and Volume

Before you start measuring the goods you want to store, there’s one important thing you should know. Shipping container sizes are based on the external dimensions rather than the internal ones. If you opt for a 10ft container, you’re not actually going to have the full 10 x 8 x 8’6 of storage space to work with.

You should always check the internal dimensions and volume of the container. Insulation, ventilation, refrigeration, and more can affect how much space you’re left with. A reefer container, for example, will always have significantly less volume. Plus, if you order a container with a built-in toilet, shelves, beds, or other features, you’ll have less room to work with.

Q: How much usable space is lost with insulation or built-in features?
A: You can lose up to 10–15% of internal volume depending on the fit-out — always check internal specs, not just external dimensions.

What Shipping Container Size Is Best for Your Business Needs?

When working out what size shipping container you need, start by answering these questions:

1. What will the container be used for (shipping, storage, office)?
2. What are the dimensions and weight of the items inside?
3. Do you need added features (e.g. toilet, AC, racking)?

At CBOX, we provide containers with full specs listed, including weight limits, internal dimensions, and custom fit-out options, helping you make the right choice from day one.

What Type of Shipping Container Do You Need? 

There are many types of shipping containers available, from reefers to office-cabins. Identifying what you need, along with if you’ll want anything installed in the container, will give you a better idea of how much volume you’ll actually have.

What Is the Size and Weight of the Goods You Want to Store? 

This is the big question: how much does the shipping container need to hold? If you’re using estimates, go for a slightly larger size. Alternatively, consider hiring a container until you have a better idea of your needs. 

Shipping containers also have a maximum weight, so calculate this before you purchase. We include information about the maximum weight, volume, and dimensions for all our containers to help you pick the right size. 

How Many Staff Members Will Use the Space? 

When looking for a workspace container, you should break down exactly how many staff members will be in the storage container at one time, as well as what they’ll be doing. 

In addition to your desired amount of square feet per person, think about your team’s workflow. How much space will allow them to work efficiently? What objects and facilities will they need? Will they have to store large personal protective equipment or tools?

Q: What container size suits a small 2–3 person on-site office?
A: A 20ft container with fit-out is usually sufficient for a 2–3 person team working in an on-site or mobile office setup.

Will Your Container Usage Vary Over Time?

If you’re likely to ship varying amounts of goods or use the shipping container as an office space for different-sized teams, you might want a slightly bigger container. Alternatively, you could hire instead of buying. 

Picking the right shipping container size pays off. It will keep your costs to a minimum while ensuring smooth business operations. So, make sure you understand the internal dimensions and volume and calculate your needs correctly. 

Still Not Sure What Size You Need?

Still have questions about how to choose the right shipping container? Our team of experts will be happy to advise you on the size and type that will best meet your needs. Contact us today.