Choosing the perfect shipping container size can feel daunting. Too small, and you’ll be cramming items in. Too large, and you might pay for unused space. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the right container size, whether you’re looking to hire or buy from Willbox. We’ll explore key decision factors, compare container sizes, and answer common questions.
Before you decide on a container, it’s important to understand exactly what you’ll be using it for. Are you storing boxes, bulky furniture, tools, or using it as a pop-up office or event unit? The type and volume of items you plan to store will significantly influence the size you need. Stackable boxes can be packed tightly and efficiently, while irregular or oversized items might require extra floor space or headroom.
If you're planning to store particularly tall items or want a sense of space for a workshop or office conversion, consider a High Cube container. These are slightly taller than standard models and are often preferred for their extra flexibility.
Next, think about where the container will be placed. Site size and accessibility are major factors. Measure the available space carefully and make sure there's enough room not just for the container itself, but also for the delivery vehicle to manoeuvre. A 20ft container typically needs around 25 feet of clear space for drop-off, while a 40ft will need even more.
In tighter spaces, such as urban gardens or compact construction sites, a mini container (5ft to 10ft) may be a better fit. These smaller units are easier to place and transport but still offer secure and weatherproof storage.
Consider the size and weight of the items you need to store. It’s not just about whether everything will fit—it’s also about whether it can be safely stored. A 20ft container can usually handle more than 15,000 kg, but you should never try to push it past its safe capacity. Overloading a container not only poses risks to your goods but can also lead to damage or extra charges.
Be sure to check the container’s internal dimensions and door sizes. If your largest item won’t fit through the doors, you may need to rethink the size or layout.
Think about how often you’ll need to access your container. If it’s going to be opened frequently, it’s worth leaving a bit of extra space inside so you’re not constantly shifting items around to reach the back. Adding shelves or opting for a container with side doors can greatly improve usability.
On the other hand, if you’re filling the container once and not reopening it for a long time, you can make full use of the internal space and pack it more tightly.
Budget is another key factor. Surprisingly, smaller containers can be more expensive per cubic foot than larger ones. That’s because mini containers are often made by modifying standard containers, which involves extra work. A 10ft container, for example, might cost almost as much as a used 20ft unit but only offer half the space.
While larger containers have higher upfront costs, they tend to provide better value over time. If you have the space, going one size up can give you flexibility for future needs and save money in the long run.
Choosing a container that’s too small can lead to a number of issues. Not only will you struggle to fit everything in, but you may also create problems with airflow and humidity. Cramped storage is more likely to lead to condensation, damp, or even mould.
In some cases, you might find yourself needing to hire a second unit or reshuffle contents often. If you’re on the fence, it’s usually best to size up slightly. The additional cost is often minor compared to the hassle of running out of space.
On the flip side, choosing a container that’s too large has its own drawbacks. You’ll be paying more for space you might not use, and the unit will take up valuable room on your site. It can also be more costly to deliver and place a 40ft container than a 20ft.
However, a larger container does come with advantages. If you anticipate needing more storage in the near future, or want room for a workshop or conversion, the additional space may be worth it.
The 20ft and 40ft containers are the most commonly used sizes. A 20ft container offers around 33 cubic metres of space—enough for the contents of a 2–3 bedroom home. It’s a great all-rounder for moving house, storing equipment, or converting into a temporary office or workshop.
A 40ft container doubles that capacity to approximately 67 cubic metres. This size is often chosen for large house moves, bulk inventory storage, or more ambitious conversion projects like container homes or pop-up retail spaces.
Learn more about our shipping container sizes and their applications.
Q1. What if I choose the wrong size container?
A: Willbox can help you swap or upgrade if needed. It’s usually better to size up if you are unsure.
Q2. How can I estimate what fits in each container?
A: A 20ft fits ~300 boxes or a 2–3 bedroom home. A 40ft fits double that or 16–20 pallets.
Q3. Will a 10ft container be big enough to store [X]?
A: It depends. A 10ft will fit 1–2 rooms’ worth of furniture. Always measure your largest item first.
Q4. Is it better to rent two smaller containers or one large one?
A: Usually one large container is more cost-effective and easier to manage.
Q5. What happens if I outgrow my container?
A: You can hire or buy an additional unit or upgrade. Willbox also offers trade-ins.
Q6. Can I get a taller or modified container?
A: Yes - opt for High Cube containers (9’6” tall) or request a custom build from Willbox.
Choosing the right shipping container size involves thinking through what you’re storing, how much space you have, and your access and future needs. With options ranging from 5ft to 40ft, Willbox offers flexible solutions to match any project. Still not sure? Contact Willbox for expert advice tailored to your storage or conversion needs.
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