If you work in the commercial industry or setting up storage, choosing the right shipping container can make all the difference. You would want to choose the right containers that fit your products perfectly without damaging them. But at the same time, you don’t want to overpay for extra space that you don’t need.
If you are a beginner, making the choice can feel overwhelming. You might be confused since there are many options available in the market. If you end up making the wrong choice, it can lead to wasted money or even worse. With the right guidance and knowledge, you can make the process easier.
Here are some tips to help you choose the right size for your shipping container.
1. Assess What You’re Storing or Shipping
The first step in choosing the right size shipping container is understanding exactly what you’ll be storing or shipping. Different items take up different amounts of space, and it’s important to measure and plan accordingly. For example, bulky items like furniture or vehicles will require more space than smaller, stackable items such as boxes or electronics.
Make a list of everything you plan to put in the container and get an estimate of how much room they will need. If you’re shipping goods for commercial purposes, consider how you’ll pack them—whether it’s in crates, pallets, or stacked in boxes.
2. Standard Shipping Container Sizes
Most shipping containers come in standard sizes, which are typically 10 feet, 20 feet, or 40 feet in length. The 20-foot container is the most commonly used, as it offers a good balance of space and affordability for both personal and commercial uses. However, larger 40-foot containers are ideal for shipping larger volumes of goods or for long-term storage.
If you only need to store a small number of items or move things a short distance, a 10-foot container might suffice. But if you’re moving a household, for example, a 20-foot or 40-foot container may be more appropriate.
3. Consider Container Height
In addition to length, container height can also play a significant role when you buy a shipping container. Standard containers are typically 8.5 feet high, but high-cube containers offer an additional foot of height, standing at 9.5 feet. If you’re storing tall items or want to maximize your space by stacking boxes higher, a high-cube container might be a better option for you.
This extra foot of space can provide more flexibility for packing, especially if you’re using shelves or racks. For people moving household items or commercial equipment, high-cube containers are often the better choice due to their added versatility.
4. Think about Your Access Needs
You also need to consider how often you will be accessing the items inside the container. If you are using the container for long-term storage, you may not need to access the stuff more frequently. For long-term storage, a more tightly packed container would work better.
If you need to access your belongings more frequently, then you need to choose containers that allow enough space for movement. Choosing a larger container in this case can help you avoid having to repack frequently.