Every project has different storage needs. That’s why choosing the correct storage container size is important. You don’t want to run out of space and delay your project, and you also don’t want to be paying for space you’re not using.

ZTERS offers a range of storage containers for rent to suit various needs — from household furniture to warehouse inventory to large construction equipment. Whether you’re comparing 10-, 20-, or 40-foot storage containers, understanding how each container size differs in height, width, and capacity ensures you get the right fit.

Here’s a comprehensive storage container size guide to help you better understand your options and determine which dimensions are the right fit for your needs.

Standard Storage Container Sizes (10, 20, & 40 Feet)

ZTERS storage containers come in several dimensions, but the most commonly used sizes are 10 feet, 20 feet, and 40 feet. These containers are often repurposed shipping containers, featuring locking mechanisms (which are great for deterring jobsite theft) and optional shelving to maximize storage efficiency. 

Below are the storage container dimensions of these standard sizes:

10-Foot Container

The 10-foot storage container is ideal for smaller projects, residential renovations, or tight spaces where you need secure storage without taking up much room.

• Length: 10 feet
• Width (Door Opening): 8 feet
• Height (Door Opening): 8.5 feet

20-Foot Container

The 20-foot storage container is one of the most popular sizes for both residential and commercial projects due to its balance of capacity and footprint.

• Length: 20 feet
• Width (Door Opening): 8 feet
• Height (Door Opening): 8.5 feet

40-Foot Container

The 40-foot storage container is best suited for large-scale projects or commercial storage needs, offering maximum space for bulky materials and equipment.

• Length: 40 feet
• Width (Door Opening): 8 feet
• Height (Door Opening): 8.5 feet

Container Height and Width Comparison

Wondering which container is taller or wider? Most standard storage containers share a width of 8 feet and a height of 8.5 feet. However, high-cube containers can reach up to 9.5 feet tall, offering extra vertical storage for bulky equipment or stacked items. If your project requires additional clearance, ask your account manager about high-cube options when choosing your storage container size.

Additional Storage Container Sizes

In addition to the standard sizes, ZTERS also offers the following container lengths. Click on one of the container sizes below to learn more about that particular product. 

• 12-foot containers
• 14-foot containers
• 16-foot containers
• 24-foot containers

Each of these containers maintains a standard width of 8 feet and a height of 8.5 feet. These sizes offer more flexibility so that you can choose a container that perfectly fits your space and storage requirements.

How Long Can You Rent Storage Containers For?

Whether you need a container for a short-term home renovation or a long-term construction project, we offer rental periods starting from one month, with options for longer leases tailored to your project’s duration. Keep in mind that longer contracts can sometimes allow for better deals for shipping container rental costs.

Placement and Accessibility

ZTERS can deliver your container to various locations, including driveways, jobsites, or streets. However, it’s important to check local permitting regulations if your container will be placed on a public road or might block traffic. For instance, the city of Houston requires a mini-warehouse application to be filled out in certain cases. If in doubt, a ZTERS expert can help you determine if you need a permit.

Ensure you communicate any specific requirements for door placement before delivery. For example, if the doors need to face a certain direction, we may need to load the container on the truck accordingly to accommodate this during delivery. 

While the container is on your site, it’s important to follow certain precautions such as keeping moisture out of the container and ensuring that you lock it when you leave your site.

What Can You Store in a Container?

• Household Items: Dishes, mirrors, clothing, tables, and mattresses, especially useful during home renovations.
• Construction Equipment: Tools and materials that need to be securely locked on a jobsite.
• Power Equipment: Ensure any equipment using kerosene or gas is properly drained before storage.

If you’re unsure about whether or not you can store something, give us a call.

Restrictions and Recommendations

To ensure safety and avoid incurring fines, you should know some restrictions on what you can store:

• Prohibited Items: Motorized vehicles, illegal items, perishable goods, gasses, ammunition, explosives, flammable goods, and toxic chemicals.
• Valuable Items: We recommend not storing currency, irreplaceable items, and other high-value possessions.

Storing prohibited items can result in hefty fines so it’s important to comply. 

ZTERS Delivery Process

Once you’ve chosen the right storage container size for your needs, our delivery process is straightforward and efficient. After finalizing your rental agreement, deliveries typically occur within two to four business days. To ensure timely delivery, especially during peak times, we advise booking as early as possible. Rush deliveries can sometimes be accommodated, but additional fees may apply.

You do not need to be present for the delivery. Simply coordinate with your ZTERS account manager to ensure the container is placed exactly where you need it. To learn more about delivery, read our post on how to install jobsite storage containers.

Rent Storage Containers from ZTERS

With a variety of sizes and flexible rental periods, ZTERS containers provide a practical solution for both residential and commercial storage. From compact 10-foot options to large 40-foot models, our full range of storage container sizes ensures the right solution for any project. Whether you’re storing household items, construction materials, or equipment, we have the perfect storage container rental for you. It’s easy to call and schedule your delivery.

Infographic: Storage Container Sizes Chart

Use this quick storage container size chart as a visual reference to compare different lengths and dimensions.