Moving homes, tackling a renovation, or simply running out of room for all your stuff? Shipping containers are a great way to keep your belongings safe, organized, and out of the way. But one of the most common questions we hear is whether a 20-foot or 40-foot container is the better choice.
While bigger might sound better, you don’t always need twice the space! The right container depends on what you’re storing, how much room you need, and your budget.
Let’s break down the differences to help you find the right fit.
What’s the Difference Between 20’ and 40’ Shipping Containers?
The biggest difference is, well, the size! Both containers are typically 8 feet wide and 8.5 feet tall, but their lengths make a big difference in storage capacity.
- 20-foot shipping containers – Offer approximately 1,170 cubic feet of interior storage space. They’re a practical choice for household furniture, renovation supplies, tools, and business inventory.
- 40-foot shipping containers – Offer approximately 2,390 cubic feet of interior storage space. With roughly twice the capacity, they suit larger storage needs, including extensive commercial inventory and bulky equipment.
Both sizes provide durable steel construction and weather-resistant protection. Ultimately, the choice comes down to how much space you’ll actually use.
Why a 20’ Shipping Container Might Be All You Need
Don’t underestimate how much you can fit into a 20-foot container! With a little organization and smart packing, these containers offer plenty of room for many everyday storage needs.
They’re especially useful for:
- Moving Between Homes – Store furniture, boxes, and household belongings while waiting for your new place to be ready.
- Home Renovations – Keep furniture, appliances, and other belongings out of the way while work is underway.
- Business Storage – Free up valuable workspace by storing seasonal inventory, supplies, and equipment.
- Seasonal Storage – Make room at home by storing patio furniture, holiday decorations, and sporting equipment.
Another advantage is affordability. If a 20-foot shipping container comfortably fits everything you need, there’s little reason to pay for twice the storage space. For homeowners and businesses looking for flexible, cost-effective storage, a 20-foot container often hits the sweet spot between space and value.
When a 40’ Shipping Container Makes More Sense
Of course, there are situations where a 40-foot container is worth considering.
If you’re storing the contents of a particularly large home, oversized equipment, or substantial amounts of commercial inventory, that extra capacity can come in handy. A 40-foot container can also be useful for businesses managing large quantities of supplies or materials over longer periods.
However, more space isn’t automatically better. If you’re only filling half the container, you could end up paying for storage you don’t actually need. The goal is to find a size that fits your belongings comfortably without stretching your budget.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Container Size
Before deciding, take a quick inventory of everything you plan to store. Measure larger items, estimate how many boxes you’ll have, and consider whether you’ll need room to move around inside.
Think about how long you’ll need storage, too. A few months during renovations might call for something different than long-term business storage.
If you’re also weighing ownership costs, check out our related blog on Renting vs. Buying Shipping Containers in Calgary to help you make an informed decision.
Find Your Perfect Storage Fit With Shield Storage
You don’t always need the biggest container to get the job done! At Shield Storage, our 20-foot steel shipping containers offer plenty of room for household belongings, business inventory, and equipment, with durable, weather-resistant construction to help keep everything protected.
With secure storage at our facilities and flexible short-term and long-term rental options, we’ll help you find a practical solution without paying for more space than you need.
Contact our friendly team today and let us help you find the right fit!
