Choosing the right shipping container size is one of the most important decisions you'll make — get it wrong and you're either paying for unused space or cramming your gear into a box that's too small. At AJ Container Hire & Sales, we help customers across Australia pick the right size every day, so here's everything you need to know.
The Three Standard Sizes
Shipping containers come in three main sizes that cover the vast majority of Australian hire and purchase needs: 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft. Each has a distinct sweet spot in terms of use case, budget, and footprint.
| Size | External Length | Internal Volume | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft | 3.0 m | ~14 m³ | Tight sites, residential storage, small gear |
| 20ft | 6.1 m | ~33 m³ | Most popular — versatile, easy to transport |
| 40ft | 12.2 m | ~67 m³ | Large inventory, workshops, major projects |
10ft Containers — Compact & Convenient
The 10ft container is the smallest standard option and ideal when space is at a premium. It fits comfortably in a standard residential driveway and can be delivered by a tilt-tray truck without the need for special access.
When to choose a 10ft:
- You need secure storage at home or on a small residential build site
- Access is limited — tight laneways, small yards, suburban streets
- You're storing tools, garden equipment, or seasonal items
- Budget is tight and you only need a small footprint
Keep in mind: 10ft containers cost more per cubic metre than their larger counterparts. If you're close to filling a 10ft, it's often worth stepping up to a 20ft for better value.
20ft Containers — The Australian Favourite
The 20ft container is by far the most popular size in Australia — and for good reason. It offers an ideal balance between storage capacity and transport flexibility. A standard semi-trailer can carry a 20ft with ease, meaning delivery costs stay reasonable even in regional areas.
When to choose a 20ft:
- You need a site office, lunchroom, or on-site storage for a construction project
- You're a small business storing stock, equipment, or tools
- You need room for modification — a 20ft is a great base for a container café, bar, or studio
- You want the best value-per-dollar balance across hire and purchase
Most of AJ Container's modification builds start with a 20ft. It's long enough to create a genuine room layout but easy enough to relocate when needed.
40ft Containers — Maximum Capacity
The 40ft container doubles the floor space of a 20ft and is the go-to choice for large-scale storage, workshops, and multi-room modifications. It requires a semi-trailer with a drop-deck or side-loader for delivery, so site access and clearance height matter more here.
When to choose a 40ft:
- You're running a large construction or mining project with substantial equipment needs
- You're storing vehicles, large machinery, or high-volume stock
- You want to convert to a container home, gym, or multi-room site facility
- You're buying to resell — 40ft containers hold strong resale value
Tip: If you're unsure whether access allows for a 40ft delivery, call us on 0439 712 287 and our team can assess your site before booking.
High Cube Variants — Extra Headroom
All three sizes are also available as High Cube containers, which add an extra 30cm of internal height (2.7m vs the standard 2.4m). This is a worthwhile upgrade for any use that involves people working inside — site offices, workshops, accommodation, and hospitality builds all benefit significantly from the extra headroom.
Still Not Sure?
Our team is happy to talk through your situation and recommend the right size and type for your budget and timeline. We service all states and territories Australia-wide and can often deliver within 24 hours.