40ft High Cube Container Dimensions and Uses | SASCO

40' High-Cube Container

A 40' high-cube container, also known as a 40ft HC container or high-cube dry container, is similar to a standard dry container but provides additional internal height. While a standard container is typically 8'6" high externally, a high-cube container is usually 9'6" high, offering more vertical space for cargo.

The 40ft high-cube container is mainly used for dry cargo that is light, voluminous, or slightly taller than cargo normally loaded in a standard container. It is not designed for top loading or out-of-gauge cargo; instead, its main advantage is the extra internal height within a closed container structure. For a broader comparison, see the SASCO container guides.

40' High-Cube Container Specifications

SpecificationValue
Inside Length 12.024 m
Inside Width 2.350 m
Inside Height 2.697 m
Door Width 2.340 m
Door Height 2.597 m
Capacity 76 m3
Tare Weight 4,020 kg
Maximum Cargo Weight 26,460 kg

Difference Between High-Cube and Standard Containers

The main difference between a 40' high-cube container and a 40' standard container is height. Both are closed dry containers used for general cargo, but the high-cube version provides more internal vertical clearance and greater cubic capacity. This makes it useful when cargo takes up space because of size rather than weight.

A high-cube container should not be confused with an open top container. If the cargo must be loaded from above by crane, a 40' open top container may be more appropriate. If the cargo is too wide or out of gauge, flat rack or platform equipment may need to be considered.

Common Applications

A 40ft high-cube container is commonly used for furniture, large cartons, lightweight industrial goods, textile products, plastic items, exhibition materials, retail goods, and other dry cargo that needs more internal height. It is also useful for palletized or packaged shipments where cargo volume is a stronger limitation than cargo weight.

This container type is frequently used in sea freight and multimodal transport when additional space is needed while keeping the cargo protected inside a closed dry container.

Important Notes

Before selecting a 40' high-cube container, cargo height, door clearance, packaging dimensions, loading method, and route restrictions should be checked. Although the container provides more internal volume, the maximum cargo weight and weight distribution limits still apply.

For cargo that is extremely heavy, oversized, temperature-sensitive, or requires special handling, another container type may be more suitable. Container selection should always be based on cargo dimensions, weight, handling requirements, and transport route.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a high-cube and a standard container?

A high-cube container is taller than a standard container and provides more internal height and cubic capacity for dry cargo.

What cargo is suitable for a 40' high-cube container?

It is suitable for light, bulky, or taller dry cargo such as furniture, large packaged goods, textiles, plastic products, and exhibition materials.

Is a high-cube container used for heavy cargo?

It can carry cargo within its allowed weight limits, but it is usually selected for volume and height rather than very dense or heavy shipments.

When should a 40' high-cube container be selected?

It should be selected when a shipment needs more internal height or cubic capacity than a 40' standard container, but does not require top loading or out-of-gauge handling.

 

Ask SASCO for container selection guidance

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