Technical Specifications Dashboard
External Dimensions
6.058 × 2.438 × 2.591 m
20' × 8' × 8'6"
Internal Dimensions
5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m
19'4" × 7'8" × 7'10"
Door Opening
2.34 × 2.28 m
7'8" × 7'6"
Internal Volume
33.2 m³
1,172 ft³
Max Payload
28,280 kg
62,347 lbs
Tare Weight
2,200 kg
4,850 lbs
Max Gross Weight
30,480 kg
67,197 lbs
Standards
ISO 668 / CSC
Global intermodal compliance
ISO 668 & ISO 6346 Compliant
20ft Container Dimensions & Capacity
The 20ft standard dry container (20DC) measures 6.058 m long × 2.438 m wide × 2.591 m high externally, with internal dimensions of 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.39 m. The door opening is 2.34 × 2.28 m, accommodating standard pallets and forklift access. With a volume of 33.2 m³ (1,172 ft³) and a payload capacity of 28,280 kg (62,347 lbs), the 20DC is the most versatile intermodal unit in global trade. All units comply with ISO 668 and CSC structural certification standards.
Why the 20ft Container Is the Foundation of Global Logistics
The 20DC is the universal building block of containerised trade. Its compact footprint makes it the preferred unit for dense and heavy cargo, including metals, machinery, chemicals, and building materials, where payload optimisation takes priority over volumetric capacity. With a maximum payload of 28,280 kg, the 20ft container delivers exceptional weight-to-volume efficiency across all transport modes.
For operators managing multi-modal supply chains, the 20DC offers unmatched flexibility. Its dimensions are compatible with standard road trailers, rail wagons, and inland barges worldwide. The 20ft container is also the most commonly available unit at port depots globally, making it the fastest to source for spot shipments, SOC one-way leasing, and emergency positioning.


Common Applications
The 20ft container is the most versatile intermodal unit, serving industries worldwide:
Global Availability & Depot Network
MG-Atlantic positions 20ft shipping containers at port-based depots across 87 countries. Our inventory is strategically allocated near major terminals in Asia, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, enabling fast container positioning within days, not weeks. Each 20DC unit is depot-inspected and ready for immediate release.
Our operational model integrates container sales, SOC one-way leasing, and export documentation support into a single workflow. Whether you need to buy a 20ft container for storage, lease one for a single voyage, or secure fleet-level volumes with export packing lists and shipping instructions, our team coordinates end-to-end logistics from depot release to vessel loading.
20DC containers for sale in the USA
Wholesale containers · For dealers, resellers and fleet buyers: one quote on the full quantity, grade confirmed in writing, units released together.

Choose the Right Container Grade for Your Operation
Operational objectives require different structural conditions. Select the grade aligned with your usage model, compliance needs, and budget strategy.
All structural grades are suitable for static storage applications. Selection depends on budget tolerance and asset lifecycle expectations.
New (One-Trip)
Factory-built container with a single export delivery cycle. Pristine structural condition with full CSC validity and minimal operational wear.
Best for: Fleet expansion, asset-backed positioning, long-term export strategy.
- Maximum structural integrity with zero operational exposure
- Full ISO & CSC compliance with factory warranty
- Highest secondary market value and resale positioning
- Ideal for institutional fleet programmes and asset-backed financing
Cargo Worthy (CW)
Inspected and certified for international ocean transport. Fully seaworthy and approved for active intermodal operations under current CSC standards.
Best for: Active shipping, freight forwarding, global repositioning.
- Valid CSC plate for immediate intermodal compliance
- Cost-efficient operational solution with proven reliability
- Ready for vessel loading without additional certification
- Balanced asset lifecycle between acquisition cost and operational exposure
IICL Standard
Refurbished according to Institute of International Container Lessors standards. Higher cosmetic and structural grading for institutional-grade deployments.
Best for: Leasing fleets, institutional operators, premium storage.
- Strict multi-point inspection and grading protocol
- Enhanced flooring, door gaskets, and panel condition
- Optimized lifecycle performance for leasing programmes
- Meets institutional compliance for fleet-grade deployment
As-Is
Sold without structural certification. Suitable for static storage, structural conversion, or project-based usage outside intermodal operations.
Best for: Construction sites, modular builds, storage yards.
- Budget-oriented acquisition with minimal capital exposure
- Conversion-friendly with no certification overhead
- Sourced on request across the depot network
- Ideal for non-transport applications with fixed deployment
20ft Container Pricing Factors
20ft container pricing reflects global commodity cycles, regional positioning, and condition grading. These five structural factors determine acquisition cost.
Market Pricing Drivers
- Steel index & new-build replacement cost
- Regional depot surplus vs. deficit balance
- Condition grade and certification level
Get a location-based quote for accurate pricing.
Indicative guidance. Final pricing depends on depot location, condition grade, and timing.
Market Dynamics
Freight demand cycles and peak seasons (Q3–Q4) tighten availability, pushing compact-unit pricing upward.
IMPACT: HIGHSteel Index Impact
New-build cost tracks global steel indices. Raw material volatility cascades into secondary market valuations.
STRUCTURAL DRIVERRegional Positioning
Surplus vs. deficit depot economics drive regional price gaps. Repositioning cost is the most sensitive lever.
MOST SENSITIVE LEVERCondition Grade
New, IICL, Cargo Worthy and As-Is create structured pricing tiers aligned with lifecycle expectations.
IMPACT: MEDIUM–HIGHVolume-Based Pricing
Fleet procurement (10+ units) unlocks tiered pricing, priority depot access, and forward allocation.
SCALABLE ADVANTAGEMarket
Market notes
- Why an international trader is opening a container shop in Switzerland
- September's Import Peak, and What It Leaves Inland
- Panama Rations Transits, and Equipment Follows
- What a Depot Actually Charges For
- Cape Routing and Container Availability
- Why Container Availability Differs by Port
- The Container Availability Calendar
