When you browse shipping containers, you will see most sizes offered in two heights: standard and High Cube. The difference is only about a foot, but that foot can decide whether a container works for you. Here is what a High Cube is, what the extra height gives you and when it is worth paying for.
What Is a High Cube Container?
A High Cube container has the same length and width as a standard container but is about 300mm (1ft) taller. A standard container stands 8ft 6in (2.59m) high on the outside, while a High Cube stands 9ft 6in (2.90m). You can usually spot one by the yellow and black hazard stripes along the top edge, which warn of the extra height.
High Cube vs Standard: The Numbers
| Standard | High Cube | |
|---|---|---|
| External height | 2.59m (8ft 6in) | 2.90m (9ft 6in) |
| Internal height | approx. 2.39m | approx. 2.69m |
| Door opening height | approx. 2.28m | approx. 2.58m |
| 20ft internal volume | approx. 33m³ | approx. 37m³ |
| 40ft internal volume | approx. 67m³ | approx. 76m³ |
| Length and width | Same | Same |
That works out to roughly 12 to 13% more storage volume in the same footprint, with no extra ground space needed.
When the Extra Height Is Worth It
- Workshops and offices. Once you add insulation, a floor covering and a ceiling lining, a standard container can feel cramped. A High Cube keeps comfortable standing headroom. Read more in our 20ft office container guide.
- Tall items. Vans with roof racks, machinery, racking, tall furniture and stacked pallets all benefit from the extra 300mm.
- Stacking and shelving. Extra height lets you add another shelf level or stack boxes higher without wasting floor space.
- Conversions. Any project where people will spend time inside, from garden studios to changing rooms, is easier in a High Cube.
When a Standard Container Is Enough
- Simple storage. For garden equipment, household goods and most tools, standard height is ample.
- Height restrictions. If the container will sit under a tree canopy, overhead cable or low roofline, or planning rules limit height, the lower profile helps.
- Tighter budgets. Standard containers are usually a little cheaper and are widely available used.
- Visual impact. A lower container is less noticeable next to a house or boundary fence.
Does a High Cube Cost More?
Usually a little, though the gap is small and depends more on condition and colour than height. In some cases a High Cube can even be the cheaper option; our 20ft High Cube in red, for example, is priced below several standard 20ft units. Compare like with like (same length and condition) when weighing up prices.
Delivery Considerations
A High Cube container sits about 30cm higher on the back of the truck, so check for low branches, cables and archways along the delivery route. Otherwise, delivery works exactly the same as a standard container. Our container delivery guide explains what to check.
High Cube Containers in Our Range
- 10ft High Cube, one-trip, cobalt blue
- New 20ft High Cube container
- 20ft High Cube container with side opening
- 40ft High Cube, one-trip, blue
- 40ft High Cube, used, wind and watertight
Our Verdict
If you plan to work inside the container, store tall items or make the most of every square metre, choose a High Cube. For straightforward storage where height is not an issue, a standard container does the job and may save you a little money. Browse both in our shop or contact us for advice.