A high cube (HC) container is one foot taller than a standard container. That extra foot of interior height makes a meaningful difference for certain projects.
Standard vs High Cube: The Numbers
| Spec | Standard | High Cube |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Height | 8’6″ | 9’6″ |
| Interior Height | 7’10” | 8’10” |
| Capacity (20ft) | 1,172 cu ft | ~1,316 cu ft |
| Capacity (40ft) | 2,390 cu ft | ~2,700 cu ft |
When Does the Extra Height Matter?
The extra foot is important for:
- Container home conversions — after adding insulation and a finished ceiling, a standard container leaves about 7 feet of headroom. A high cube gives you closer to 8 feet, which feels like a normal room.
- Workshops and studios — the 8’10” interior height gives clearance for taller equipment, overhead lighting, and standing work.
- Taller shelving — an extra shelf tier can significantly increase your total storage capacity.
When Standard Height Is Fine
For basic ground-level storage — tools, equipment, inventory, household items — standard height containers work well. Most items people store fit comfortably within 7’10” of interior height.
We carry high cube containers in both 20ft and 40ft sizes, in new one-trip and used grades. Call (214) 399-9272 for pricing and availability, or get a free quote.