Table of Contents:
Are you considering purchasing a 40-foot shipping container but feeling overwhelmed by the options and details? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision about buying a 40-foot container. From dimensions and capacity to customization options and finding reliable sellers, At On-Site Storage Solutions, we’ve got you covered.
40 Foot Container Dimensions and Capacity
A typical 40-foot shipping container is about 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.6 feet tall. This size offers plenty of room for different types of cargo or storage, with a total space of about 2,350 cubic feet. Knowing these measurements helps you figure out if a 40-foot container meets your needs and plan how to move and place it.
To make it easier to understand, we’ve added a comparison table that clearly shows the size of a 40 ft container, so you can see how much space you have for your projects or storage.
Measure | Standard 40-Foot Container |
|---|---|
Length (External) | 40 feet |
| Height (External) | 8 feet 6 inches |
| Width (External) | 8 feet |
| Internal Length | 39 feet 5 inches |
| Internal Height | 7 feet 10 inches |
| Internal Width | 7 feet 9 inches |
| Door Width | 7 feet 9 inches |
| Door Height | 7 feet 5.75 inches |
| Tare Weight | 7,650 pounds |
Curious about the size and capacity of a 40-foot container? Check out our blog for all the key info!
What Fits Inside a 40-Foot Container:
A 40-foot container provides vast space for a variety of cargo or storage needs. Items that can be accommodated in a 40-foot container include:
- Eight standard pallets, each measuring 48 inches by 40 inches, were neatly stacked two levels high.
- An entire three-bedroom house’s worth of furniture.
- Various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
- A wide array of construction materials and equipment.
- Large machinery or industrial components, tailored for significant projects.
Important Considerations:
- Weight Restrictions: Despite the considerable volume capacity of a 40-foot container, it’s crucial to adhere to weight restrictions set by transport regulations. Make sure your shipment stays within the legal weight limits for road, rail, or maritime transport.
- Loading and Arrangement: Making the most of the container’s internal space is essential for optimizing its use. Pay attention to the height at which goods are stacked, how weight is distributed across the container, and how to secure the cargo to avoid movement while in transit.
40 Ft Standard vs 40 ft High Cube
The choice between a standard 40-foot container and a 40-foot high cube depends on the specific requirements for storage or transportation. Standard containers, which are 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet 6 inches tall externally, offer plenty of space and are commonly used for general cargo in shipping and storage.
On the other hand, high cube containers are the same length and width but have an extra foot in height, standing at 9 feet 6 inches externally. This allows for a larger capacity of approximately 2,700 cubic feet, making them perfect for storing taller items or for more efficient stacking. These containers are typically used for oversized cargo or items that need more vertical space.
Wondering about the differences between a 40 ft standard and a 40 ft high cube container? Our blog breaks it down for you!
40-Foot Dry Van Door Configurations
Different types of doors are available for 40-foot dry van shipping containers to suit various loading and unloading needs:
Double Doors on One End: This common container has two doors on one end that close tightly, making it versatile for transporting goods by sea, land, or rail. It’s also great for storage.
Double Doors on Both Ends (Tunnel Container): Similar to the standard container but with doors on both ends, this design allows for quick loading and unloading by providing entry from one side and exit from the other. It’s sometimes called a “tunnel container.”
Open-side Shipping Container: This container has double doors on one end like a regular metal container, but one side has bi-fold doors instead of a solid wall. These extra doors can be partially or fully opened, providing easy access to the container’s entire side. It’s also known as a side access container, full-side access container, or side-opening storage container.
Interested in 40-foot dry van door configurations? Discover the various options in our latest blog post!
How Much Does a 40-foot Container Cost?
If you’re looking to discover the cost of our 40-foot standard containers, here’s what you can expect to pay for cargo-worthy containers in our locations:
| Location | 40ft Shipping Container Cost |
| Chicago | $1,800.00 |
| Los Angeles | $1,800.00 |
| Atlanta | $1,800.00 |
| Dallas | $1,800.00 |
(This Price Chart has been updated as of March 2024)
Want to know how much a 40-foot container costs? Find detailed pricing information on our blog!
40 Ft. Containers Conditions and Grades
40-foot containers are graded based on their condition, serving as a guide for buyers to evaluate their suitability. “One-Trip” or “Like New” containers are nearly
new, having undergone just one international shipment and exhibiting minimal wear. They are considered top-grade with a long lifespan and low maintenance needs.
“Cargo Worthy” or “Wind and Watertight” containers are structurally sound and meet shipping standards, though they may have slight imperfections. “As Is” or “Used” containers show more wear, including rust and dents, but may still be suitable for storage or non-shipping purposes with some maintenance. When purchasing, it’s crucial to consider factors like intended use and budget, opting for the grade that best fits your needs.
Looking for insights on 40 ft container conditions and grades? Our blog has everything you need to know!
Customization Options Available for 40 ft Containers
Customizing a 40-foot container by adding doors or windows greatly enhances its versatility and functionality for various purposes. Doors such as roll-up, personnel, or high-security options provide convenient access and security, making the container suitable for storage or living or working spaces. Similarly, the addition of fixed, sliding, or security windows introduces natural light and ventilation while maintaining privacy and safety.
These customization options allow for tailored solutions to meet specific needs, whether for storage, office, or retail applications, maximizing the container’s potential for diverse uses.
Considering customizing your 40-foot container? Explore the available options in our blog!
Accessories Available for 40 foot Shipping Container
If you have a 40-foot shipping container, there are some helpful accessories you might want to consider:
Shelving and Racking Systems: These help you organize your stuff neatly by using up the vertical space inside the container. They’re great for storing tools or other items, whether you’re using the container as a storage unit or a workspace.
Ramps: Moving heavy things in and out of the container can be tricky, but ramps make it easier. They’re especially handy if you’re using the container for storage or as a workshop.
Locks and Lock Boxes: Keeping your container secure is important. Good locks and lock boxes help protect what’s inside from unwanted visitors. Lockboxes cover the padlock, making it harder for people to tamper with it.
Shelving Brackets: If you like to customize your storage setup, shelving brackets are perfect. They let you create shelves that fit your needs exactly, whether you’re storing odd-shaped items or equipment.
Need accessories for your 40-foot shipping container? Check out our blog to see what’s available!
Advantages of 40 Feet Container
The 40-foot shipping container is very useful in transport and logistics, offering several benefits:
- Lots of Space: 40-foot containers are big, so they can fit a lot of stuff or big items for transport or storage.
- Can Be Used Anywhere: They’re used in many different industries and for lots of purposes because they work well with all kinds of transportation.
- Saves Money: Even though they’re large, 40-foot containers are often cheaper per unit of space compared to smaller ones, which helps save money.
- Easy to Find: You can find 40-foot containers pretty much everywhere around the world, making it easy to plan and organize shipments, whether you’re shipping things locally or internationally.
- Saves Time: Using 40-foot containers makes shipping and logistics faster and more efficient because you don’t have to handle lots of smaller containers. This means things get where they need to go more quickly and at a lower cost.
Curious about the advantages of using a 40-foot container? Learn all about it in our blog!
Uses and Applications of 40’ Container
Originally designed for global transport, 40-foot shipping containers, renowned for their durability, have found new life through innovative applications. Below are some inventive ways individuals are repurposing these containers:
- Transporting Goods: They’re primarily used to ship items internationally by sea, land, or rail.
- Storage: These containers are frequently utilized to securely store various equipment, inventory, and supplies across different industries.
- Modular Structures: They’re converted into versatile modular buildings like offices, housing units, classrooms, and retail outlets.
- Mobile Workspaces: Fitted with tools and equipment, these containers are convenient workspaces at job sites or events.
- Exhibitions and Events: They’re repurposed into exhibition booths, event stages, and pop-up shops for trade shows, festivals, and other promotional events.
Want to know the uses and applications of a 40-foot container? Our blog provides comprehensive details!
How to buy a 40-foot container?
Buying a 40-foot shipping container is a straightforward process and can cater to various needs such as storage, modifications, or transportation of goods. Here are the steps to purchase a 40-foot container:
Buying Directly: The simplest method is to buy a new or used 40-foot container from a reputable seller. This allows you to own the container outright, providing a long-term solution for your storage or shipping needs. Companies like On-Site Storage Solutions offer a range of containers, from nearly new to used ones in different conditions, allowing you to choose based on your budget and requirements. They may also provide discounts for bulk purchases and offer various payment options.
Renting a 40-Foot Container
For Temporary Needs: Renting a container might be suitable if you only need it for a short period. Companies like On-Site Storage Solutions offer flexible rental agreements, allowing you to keep the container for the required duration without the commitment of buying it. This option is ideal for short-term projects, events, or additional storage needs.
Rent-to-Own Options
Flexible Ownership: Rent-to-own programs provide a middle ground for those who want a container but need more time to be ready to pay the full price upfront. On-Site Storage Solutions offers Rent-to-Own (RTO) programs for shipping containers, allowing you to own the container gradually. The process involves selecting your container from a wide range of options, with flexible payment terms and no credit checks required. The program typically offers payment terms ranging from 6 to 24 months, with early payment discounts available.
Regardless of your choice, ensure you purchase your container from a trusted supplier to ensure quality and service. Verify delivery options and any additional costs associated with transportation or setup at your desired location.
Thinking about buying a 40-foot container? Get all the tips and steps in our latest blog post!
Finding Reliable Sellers and Competitive Pricing
The 40 ft shipping container market is big, with many sellers and different types of containers. To find good deals, look for sellers with happy customers and clear prices, like On-Site Storage Solutions.
We’ve been providing great service for over 20 years, offering efficient, reliable, and affordable solutions. Our promise is simple: great prices, quality, and convenience. We have locations everywhere, ready to quickly meet your needs.
We guarantee your satisfaction and ensure all our containers are leak-proof. We have a wide range of new, used, and refurbished containers to fit what you need. Trust us for top-notch service and support at every step. We offer door-to-door delivery, custom modifications, and big discounts for bulk purchases. Choose us for an easy, confident, and reliable buying experience.
Looking for reliable sellers and competitive pricing for 40-foot containers? Our blog has got you covered!
Explaining the Delivery Process
To guarantee a seamless and economical delivery of your shipping container, proper site preparation, clear access, and having a recipient on hand is crucial. Key preparation steps involve selecting an appropriate location, ensuring ample space for the delivery process, determining the optimal orientation for the container’s doors, removing any overhead obstructions, making sure the site is both dry and level, laying down railroad ties if necessary, and providing the driver with all the necessary details.
Inadequate preparation could result in additional charges, damage, or incorrect placement of the container. In the event of unforeseen weather conditions, rescheduling is recommended. For any specific needs or inquiries, maintaining open lines of communication with your On-Site Storage Solutions representative is advisable.
Learn more about the delivery process of a 40-foot container in our blog!
Your Next Step
Having all the crucial information on purchasing 40-foot shipping containers, you can move forward with confidence. Whether you need it for storage, a construction project, or customization, it’s vital to be well-informed to make the best decisions.
Contact On-Site Storage Solutions at (888) 405-8772 for expert advice on selecting the perfect container. Our team is committed to assisting you in finding the option that best suits your needs, with a focus on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ensuring your complete satisfaction. Trust us for clear communication and support throughout the process.
