When shipping internationally, one of the most common dilemmas is choosing between a 20-foot and a 40-foot container. Picking the wrong size can mean unnecessary cost or insufficient space. In this article, we’ll help you decide which container is right for your needs and how to calculate the shipping cost easily using our Container Shipping Cost Calculator.
Size Comparison: 20ft vs. 40ft Container
| Feature | 20ft Container | 40ft Container |
|---|---|---|
| Length (External) | ~20 ft (6.1 m) | ~40 ft (12.2 m) |
| Volume (Cubic Feet) | ~1,170 cu ft | ~2,390 cu ft |
| Max Load Weight | ~22,000 kg (48,500 lbs) | ~26,000 kg (57,300 lbs) |
| Ideal For | 1–2 bedroom household | Large household or goods |
Cost Differences
- 20ft container: Generally costs between $1,000 – $3,000
- 40ft container: Ranges from $2,000 – $4,500
Note: Prices vary based on shipping route, port charges, season, and container availability.
When to Choose Each?
Use a 20ft container if:
- You’re moving a small home or shipping limited goods.
- You’re cost-conscious and want to avoid paying for unused space.
Use a 40ft container if:
- You have a large volume of cargo.
- You’re shipping bulky items (e.g., furniture, cars).
- Cost per cubic foot matters more than total price.
How to Estimate Shipping Cost Instantly
Use our container shipping calculator:
- Select 20ft or 40ft
- Enter origin & destination
- Add cargo weight/volume
- Get instant cost estimates
FCL vs. LCL Explained
- FCL (Full Container Load): You pay for the entire container.
- LCL (Less than Container Load): You share space and pay based on volume.
Even with LCL, a 40ft container could be cheaper per cubic foot if you’re near the space limit.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right container size is crucial for budget and efficiency. Use our container shipping calculator to make the best decision and get a cost estimate in seconds.
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