Ocean freight is the backbone of global trade, and 20ft and 40ft containers are the standard units powering this vast network. Whether you’re importing electronics from Shenzhen or exporting furniture to Prince Rupert, BC, Canada, understanding these containers’ specifications, capacities, and shipping processes is key to optimizing your logistics. At Welltrans Logistics, we simplify container shipping with tailored freight forwarding solutions. This guide dives into the essentials of 20ft and 40ft containers, helping you make informed decisions for your supply chain.
What Are 20ft and 40ft Containers?
Standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 20ft and 40ft containers—also known as Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) and Forty-foot Equivalent Units (FEUs)—are the most common containers in ocean freight. Made of durable corrugated steel, these rectangular boxes transport everything from consumer goods to industrial equipment across seas, rails, and roads. Their intermodal design allows seamless transitions between transport modes without unloading cargo, saving time and costs.
- 20ft Container (TEU): Ideal for smaller shipments or heavy cargo, offering a compact yet robust solution.
- 40ft Container (FEU): Suited for bulk or voluminous goods, providing nearly double the capacity of a 20ft container.
Welltrans Logistics, based in Shenzhen, specializes in both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping, ensuring your cargo moves efficiently from China to global destinations.
20’GP Shipping Container Dimensions
| External Length: 19′ 10.50″ (6.06m) Width: 8′ 0.00″ (2.44m) Height: 8′ 6.00″ (2.59m) |
| Internal Length: 18′ 8.81″ (5.71m) Width: 7′ 8.59″ (2.35m) Height: 7′ 9.89″ (2.38m) |
| Door Width: 7′ 8.125″ (2.34m) Height: 7′ 5.75″ (2.27m) |
| Capacity Cubic Volume: 1,169 ft. (33.10m) Empty Weight: 4,850 lbs. (2,199 kg) Load Capacity: 61,289 lbs. (27,800 kg) |
40’GP Shipping Container Dimensions
| External Length: 40′ 0.00″ (12.19m) Width: 8′ 0.00″ (2.44m) Height: 8′ 6.00″ (2.59m) |
| Internal Length: 39′ 5.70″ (5.71m) Width: 7′ 8.59″ (2.35m) Height: 7′ 9.89″ (2.38m) |
| Door Width: 7′ 8.125″ (2.34m) Height: 7′ 5.75″ (2.27m) |
| Capacity Cubic Volume: 2,385 ft. (67.54m) Empty Weight: 8,380 lbs. (3,801 kg) Load Capacity: 57,759 lbs. (26,199 kg) |
40’HQ Shipping Container Dimensions
| External Length: 40′ 0.00″ (12.19m) Width: 8′ 0.00″ (2.44m) Height: 9′ 6.00″ (2.90m) |
| Internal Length: 39′ 5.70″ (12.07m) Width: 7′ 7.00″ (2.31m) Height: 8′ 9.00″ (2.67m) |
| Door Width: 7′ 6.00″ (2.29m) Height: 8′ 5.00″ (2.57m) |
| Capacity Cubic Volume: 2,660 ft. (75.32m) Empty Weight: 8,598 lbs. (3,900 kg) Load Capacity: 58,598 lbs. (26,580 kg) |
45’HQ Shipping Container Dimensions
| External Length: 40′ 0.00″ (13.72m) Width: 8′ 0.00″ (2.44m) Height: 9′ 6.00″ (2.90m) |
| Internal Length: 39′ 5.70″ (13.59m) Width: 7′ 7.00″ (2.31m) Height: 8′ 9.00″ (2.67m) |
| Door Width: 7′ 6.00″ (2.29m) Height: 8′ 5.00″ (2.57m) |
| Capacity Cubic Volume: 3,040 ft. (86.08m) Empty Weight: 10,580 lbs. (4,799 kg) Load Capacity: 55,559 lbs. (25,201 kg) |
Other information you need to know
Intermodal shipping containers feature standardized details on their doors, enabling seamless handling at ports worldwide. From the CSC plate’s manufacturer data to size, capacity, and unique identification numbers, every element adheres to global standards. To ensure universal compatibility with handling equipment, containers are built to precise specifications and dimensions, guaranteeing safe and efficient transport across international supply chains, from Shenzhen to ports like Prince Rupert.
Choosing Between 20ft and 40ft Containers
Selecting the right container depends on your cargo and logistics goals. Here’s how to decide:
- 20ft Containers: Best for heavy, compact shipments or when cargo volume is less than 30 cubic meters. They’re cheaper to ship due to lower weight but cost more per cubic meter than 40ft containers.
- 40ft Containers: Ideal for large or bulky shipments, such as retail goods or construction materials. They offer better value for high-volume cargo, with shipping costs often only 30% higher than 20ft containers despite double the capacity.
Welltrans Logistics helps you assess cargo volume and weight using tools like cubic meter calculators to ensure the right container choice. For mixed shipments, our LCL services combine your cargo with others, saving costs without sacrificing efficiency.
How to Ship 20ft and 40ft Containers
Shipping containers from China to global ports like Prince Rupert involves a streamlined process with Welltrans Logistics. Here’s how it works:
- Request a Quote: Share your shipment details—origin, destination, cargo type, and volume—for a tailored quote. Current ocean freight rates from Shanghai to Prince Rupert are ~USD 2,000, with May rates potentially rising by USD 500–1,000.
- Select Your Service: Choose between FCL for exclusive container use or LCL for smaller loads. Compare transit times (2–3 weeks for ocean freight to Canada) and carrier options.
- Book Your Shipment: Confirm details and secure your booking with Welltrans Logistics’ online platform or dedicated support team.
- Prepare Your Cargo: Pack and label goods per international standards, ensuring proper documentation (e.g., commercial invoice, packing list). We guide you through customs requirements.
- Track Your Shipment: Monitor your container’s journey in real-time, from Shenzhen/Shanghai to destination, with our tracking tools.
Our team handles terminal handling charges, customs clearance, and surcharges, ensuring transparency and cost control throughout the process.
Logistics Tips for Container Shipping
- Calculate Volume Accurately: Use a cubic meter calculator to estimate cargo volume and avoid over- or under-booking container space.
- Monitor Freight Rates: Rates fluctuate seasonally. For example, Shanghai-to-Prince Rupert rates may rise in May, so book early to lock in lower costs.
- Choose the Right Container Type: Beyond standard containers, consider reefers for perishables or open-top containers for oversized cargo.
- Plan for Customs: Provide complete documentation to avoid delays. Welltrans Logistics ensures compliance with Canadian and international regulations.
Contact Welltrans Logistics for a free quote and start shipping smarter today.
Conclusion
Mastering 20ft and 40ft container shipping unlocks efficiency in your global supply chain. By understanding their specifications, choosing the right size, and partnering with a trusted freight forwarder, you can optimize costs and delivery times. Explore more logistics insights in our Knowledge Hub and let Welltrans Logistics handle your next shipment from Shenzhen to the world.