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Common Shipping Container Sizes for Import and Export
Common dry containers include 20GP, 40GP, 40HQ and 45HQ. GP means general purpose; HQ (also HC) means High Cube. Dimensions below are length × width × height in metres.
| Type | External L × W × H (m) | Internal L × W × H (m), approx. | Capacity (m³), approx. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20GP | 6.058 × 2.438 × 2.591 | 5.900 × 2.352 × 2.395 | 33.2 |
| 40GP | 12.192 × 2.438 × 2.591 | 12.032 × 2.352 × 2.395 | 67.7 |
| 40HQ | 12.192 × 2.438 × 2.896 | 12.032 × 2.350 × 2.700 | 76.3 |
| 45HQ | 13.716 × 2.438 × 2.896 | 13.556 × 2.352 × 2.700 | 86.0 |
Container weight reference
These are Hapag-Lloyd equipment examples, not universal ratings for every container of the same size. Values are in metric tonnes (t); 1 t = 1,000 kg.
Maximum payload = maximum gross mass − tare. Payload includes the goods, packaging, pallets and securing materials. The net goods allowance must therefore deduct those materials. Loading must satisfy the actual container markings, valid CSC plate and carrier, port and road restrictions, using the applicable stricter limit. High Cube adds volume, not necessarily payload.
Which size fits?
20GP: smaller-volume or dense cargo, subject to weight limits. 40GP: conventional larger dry-cargo shipments. 40HQ: the same external length and width as a 40GP, with about 0.305 m more height for bulky cargo. 45HQ: additional length; confirm carrier, route and inland transport availability.
Reading the door markings
Container number: owner code, equipment category, serial number and check digit. ISO size/type code: for example, 45G1 identifies a 40-foot High Cube, not a 45-foot container. MAX. GROSS: maximum gross mass. TARE: empty container mass. NET / MAX. CARGO: maximum payload, calculated as maximum gross minus tare. CU. CAP.: internal capacity. CSC plate: safety approval and inspection information.
Before loading
Internal dimensions are carrier fleet examples and vary by manufacturer and individual container. Door openings are usually smaller than the interior. Pallets, packaging, securing materials and handling clearance reduce usable cargo volume. For veneer, panels or logs, check packed length, volume and gross weight together.
Use the actual door markings, valid CSC plate and carrier, port and road restrictions to confirm permissible loading. There is no universal payload or guaranteed usable cargo volume for each size.
Original schematic illustration, not to scale. Sources checked: 22 October 2026.
Hapag-Lloyd: 20GP · 40GP · 40HQ · 45HQ
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