The most popular container size in North America — versatile, secure, and available for delivery to 30+ cities.
The 20-foot shipping container is the backbone of global trade and the most popular container size purchased by homeowners, farmers, and small businesses across the United States. Neither too big nor too small, the 20ft unit hits a sweet spot between affordability and usable space — providing roughly 1,360 cubic feet of secure, weatherproof storage.
Built from Corten (weathering) steel, 20ft containers are engineered to withstand ocean crossings, stacking, and decades of outdoor exposure. Each unit is CSC-certified and ISO-compliant, meaning it meets international structural standards. Whether you're buying a used container for agricultural storage or a one-trip unit for a container conversion project, the 20ft size is the right starting point for most buyers.
| Dimension | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Dimensions | ||
| Length | 20' 0" | 6.10 m |
| Width | 8' 0" | 2.44 m |
| Height | 8' 6" | 2.59 m |
| Internal Dimensions | ||
| Length | 19' 4" | 5.89 m |
| Width | 7' 9" | 2.35 m |
| Height | 7' 10" | 2.39 m |
| Cube Capacity | 1,360 ft³ | 32.6 m³ |
| Door Opening | ||
| Width | 7' 8" | 2.33 m |
| Height | 7' 5" | 2.26 m |
Pricing for 20ft containers varies based on three primary factors: condition grade, delivery distance, and current market availability. As a general guide:
Delivery is priced separately at approximately $5.00 per mile from the nearest depot, with a minimum charge of $499. Request a free quote to get exact pricing for your ZIP code — pricing varies significantly by location.
At 1,360 cubic feet of interior space, a 20ft container is roughly equivalent to a 10×10 storage unit — but far more secure. Common use cases include:
The 20ft container wins when space is limited. If your delivery site has restricted access — a tight driveway, limited street clearance, or a smaller lot — a 20ft container requires significantly less maneuvering room than a 40ft unit. It also costs less to purchase and delivers the same level of security and weatherproofing in half the footprint.
If you're on the fence between sizes, our agents can help you assess based on your specific needs. See our full container comparison guide to review all sizes side by side.
The delivery truck needs straight clearance of at least 40 feet plus the container length, with 14ft overhead clearance. The drop site must be on solid, level ground. See our complete delivery guide for a site prep checklist.
Used 20ft containers typically range from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on condition. One-trip (near-new) units cost $3,500–$5,500+. Delivery is an additional $5/mile from the nearest depot with a $499 minimum. Get an exact quote for your location.
The interior measures 19'4" long × 7'9" wide × 7'10" tall — 1,360 cubic feet of usable space. That's enough for a 3–4 bedroom home's furniture, construction materials, farm equipment, or extensive retail inventory.
With proper maintenance, a shipping container can last 25–30+ years. Corten steel naturally forms a protective patina that slows corrosion. One-trip containers have the longest remaining lifespan; WWT-grade containers typically have 10–15 useful years remaining depending on their service history.
Color selection is generally not available for used containers — depots assign units based on availability and quality rather than color preference. If color matters, you can purchase a one-trip container (which arrives in better condition) or have your container painted after delivery.
Permit requirements vary by municipality. Many rural and agricultural areas allow containers without a permit. Urban and suburban areas, especially HOA-governed communities, often require a zoning variance or temporary-use permit. We recommend contacting your local building department before placing your order.
