40′ Shipping Containers

A standard 40′ shipping container measures approximately 40′ long, 8′ wide, and 8′6″ tall, while a 40′ High Cube container is 9′6″ tall, providing an additional foot of vertical storage space.

Typical specifications for a 40′ High Cube container include:

• Exterior dimensions: 40′ L × 8′ W × 9′6″ H
• Interior height: about 8′10″
• Internal volume: about 2,700 cubic feet
• Maximum payload: approximately 58,000 lbs depending on container condition and configuration

This capacity allows a 40′ container to store large equipment, bulk materials, or dozens of pallets, making it a practical choice for commercial and construction use.

The most common question buyers ask is whether they should choose a 40′ GP container or a 40′ High Cube container.

40′ General Purpose (GP)

Standard height container often used for:

• General storage
• Equipment protection
• Shipping cargo
• Job site storage

40′ High Cube (HC)

High cube containers add one extra foot of interior height, which is useful for:

• Tall equipment or shelving systems
• Stacked materials
• Container modification projects
• Workshops or storage with interior framing

High cube containers have become increasingly popular because the extra height allows businesses to maximize vertical storage space.

For projects that require easier access, 40′ High Cube full side opening containers provide a unique solution.

Instead of accessing the container only from the end doors, the entire side of the container can open, allowing forklifts or crews to load materials directly from the side.

This design is useful for:

• Palletized inventory storage
• Equipment access
• Construction material storage
• Retail or modification projects

Side opening containers can also be used for container conversions, where wide openings are needed for workspace or display areas.

Across Hawaii, 40′ containers are used in many industries because they provide durable, weather-resistant storage.

Common applications include:

Construction job sites
Secure storage for tools, equipment, and building materials.

Contractor baseyards
Equipment storage and staging areas.

Warehousing and inventory storage
Bulk inventory or palletized goods.

Container modification projects
Offices, workshops, retail spaces, and other container builds.

Because containers are made from corrosion-resistant weathering steel, they are designed to withstand harsh environments and protect materials from weather exposure.

Many customers purchasing a 40′ container plan to modify it for specific uses. At HIWASTE MFG, we can assist with custom container modifications depending on the project.

Examples of modifications include:

• Roll-up doors or additional access doors
• Windows or ventilation
• Interior framing and shelving
• Electrical or lighting setups
• Paint and branding

Starting with a one-trip container often provides the best foundation for modifications because the structure is still in near-new condition.