A 40ft shipping container is one of the most popular choices for businesses, contractors, and homeowners looking for serious storage space. But just how much can you fit inside—and is it the right choice for your needs?
At Container Sales Group, we specialize in helping customers make informed, confident purchases. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about 40ft containers: their volume, storage capacity, common uses, and how Wind & Watertight (WWT) condition factors into your decision.
40ft Shipping Container Dimensions & Volume
- Exterior: 40 ft L x 8 ft W x 8 ft 6 in H
- Interior Space: ~2,385 cubic feet
- Max Payload: ~59,200 lbs.
- Door Opening: Approx. 7 ft 8 in W x 7 ft 5 in H
- Exterior: 40 ft L x 8 ft W x 9 ft 6 in H
- Interior Space: ~2,397 cubic feet
- Max Payload: ~67,200 lbs.
- Door Opening: Approx. 7 ft 8 in W x 7 ft 5 in H
That’s enough space to hold the contents of a 3- to 4-bedroom house, or large volumes of tools, inventory, or materials. These containers are also a favorite for storage, mobile offices, pop-up shops, and modular construction builds.
What Can You Store in a 40ft Container?
Here are some real-world examples based on how customers use 40 ft containers:
Residential Storage
- Furniture for 3–4 bedrooms
- 2 compact cars
- Appliances (washer, dryer, fridge)
- Lawn equipment, bikes, and holiday decorations
- Great for moves, downsizing, or home renovations
Contractor & Construction Use
- Pallets (up to 20-21 standard 48 in x 40 in pallets -single stacked) of tools and building materials
- Jobsite equipment
- Scaffolding and jobsite tool chests for multiple crews
- Lumber, framing, and plumbing supplies
- Ideal for long-term projects with rotating trades
Commercial & Retail Inventory
- Event furniture and signage
- Desks (30-40 desks and chairs), filing cabinets and boxed records
- Overstock inventory
- Boxes- 2,000 medium moving boxes
Industrial & Municipal Use
- Maintenance and landscaping equipment
- Spare parts, drums, and safety gear
- Emergency supplies
Keep in Mind:
- Height clearance is 8 ft 6 in (or 9 ft 6 in in a High Cube)
- Plan to leave a central aisle if frequent access is needed
- Use racking or shelving to take advantage of full vertical space
Tips for Maximizing Storage in a 40ft Container
- Use Pallet Racking or Shelving: Maximize vertical space and improve organization.
- Label Boxes Clearly: Makes finding items easy without unpacking everything.
- Leave a Center Aisle: Allows access to items in the back without unloading.
- Install a Light or Solar Vent Fan: Improves visibility and airflow.
- Use Weather-Resistant Bins: Even WWT containers can experience condensation if not properly ventilated.
The Critical Delivery Info Most 40ft Container Guides Skip
Many articles tell you how big a 40ft container is but few explain how to prepare for delivery or how to plan for accessibility. Here’s what you need to know:
• Make sure the site is level and accessible for a 40ft truck
• You’ll need about 150 ft of clearance in a straight line
• Let your supplier know if your site has soft ground, tight turns, or slope
At Container Sales Group, we help you plan your container delivery before it ships.
Your Top Questions Answered: 40ft Shipping Containers
Q: How much does a 40ft shipping container weigh?
A: The container itself weighs about 8,000 lbs empty. It can hold up to ~61,000 lbs of cargo.
Q: Can a 40ft container fit in my driveway?
A: Probably not unless you have a very large property. 20ft containers are usually better for tight spaces. A 40 ft needs at least 150 ft of straight access.
Q: What’s the difference between a 40ft standard and a 40ft High Cube?
A: A High Cube is 1 foot taller (9 ft 6 in vs. 8 ft in), providing ~300 extra cubic feet of space—ideal for taller items or racking.
Q: Is WWT enough for storing my household items?
A: Yes, as long as you’re not storing climate-sensitive items. Add vents, moisture absorbers, or a dehumidifier to reduce condensation risk.
Q: How long will a used WWT container last?
A: With basic maintenance and level placement, a used container can last 15+ years for stationary storage.
Why Wind & Water Tight (WWT) Matters
Not all used containers are created equal. At Container Sales Group, we only label a container WWT if it meets our strict internal inspection standards:
- No holes in walls, roof, or floor
- Doors seal tightly and operate smoothly
- No major structural damage or leaks
Why Purchase Your 40 ft. Shipping Container from Container Sales Group?
- In business since 1998
- Water/Wind Tight Guarantee on all used containers
- New, used, and specialized containers in stock
- Affordable pricing, with no hidden fees
- Nationwide delivery and local pick-up options
- 150+ 5- STAR GOOGL REVIEWS
- WBENC-certified, women-owned & operated business
- Single point of contact from quote to delivery
Whether you’re searching for a 20 ft., 40 ft. Standard, or 40 ft. High Cube, we’ve got the right unit for your needs — and we’ll help you through every step of the process.
Ready to Get Started?
Need Help Choosing the Right Size? Call us at 888-320-5938 or Request a Quick Quote today. Our team is here to make sure your container fits your needs—without the guesswork.
