A high cube container looks almost identical to a standard container – until you stand inside. That extra height makes a real difference for some jobs and none at all for others. Here’s what you need to know.
High cube vs standard: the numbers
| External height | Standard 2.59m / High cube 2.90m |
|---|---|
| Internal height | Standard about 2.39m / High cube about 2.69m |
| Door opening height | Standard about 2.28m / High cube about 2.58m |
| Length and width | Same as standard |
So a high cube container gives you about 30cm more height inside, and about 12% more volume.
When a high cube is worth it
- Conversions: once you add insulation, lining and a floor, a standard container gets cramped. High cubes leave you with normal ceiling height.
- Pallet racking: fit an extra layer of stock.
- Tall machinery: ride-on mowers with ROPS, quad bikes with racks, small tractors.
- Workshops: more headroom for lights, hoists and airflow.
When a standard container is fine
For general storage – boxes, furniture, tools, garden gear – a standard container does the job and saves you a bit.
How much more does a high cube cost?
Our 20ft high cube is $3,380 compared to $2,999 for a standard 20ft. The 40ft high cube is $4,200 against $3,999. For conversions, it’s money well spent.
Things to watch
High cubes are taller on the truck, so check for low branches and power lines on the way in. If you’re stacking or joining containers, make sure they’re all the same height.
High cube container for conversions
Once you add 50mm insulation, a ceiling lining and a floor covering, a standard container’s ceiling drops to around 2.2m. A high cube container keeps it closer to 2.5m – much more comfortable for an office, studio or home.
How to spot a high cube
High cubes often have a yellow and black hazard stripe along the top edge and “HC” or “9’6″” in the markings on the doors.
High cube container vs standard: the cost per cubic metre
A standard 40ft gives you about 67 cubic metres; a 40ft high cube gives you about 76. At $3,999 and $4,200, that’s roughly $60 per cubic metre for the standard and $55 for the high cube. So if you’re storing by volume rather than floor space – stacked boxes, pallet racking, tall equipment – the high cube container is actually better value.
For floor-based storage like vehicles or machinery, the extra height doesn’t add much, and a standard container is fine.
Quick answers
Is a high cube container the same length?
Yes. Only the height is different.
Is a high cube container heavier?
Slightly, by a couple of hundred kilos.
Can a high cube container go on a normal truck?
Yes, but check overhead clearance on the route and at your site.
See our high cube containers, including the 40ft high cube and 20ft high cube. Questions? Email sales@mrfequipments.com.au. For the background on container standards, see intermodal containers.