When planning a home relocation, business move, renovation project, or long-term storage solution, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right storage container size. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to figure out which type suits your needs. Picking the wrong size can mean wasted money, damaged items, and avoidable stress. That’s why understanding the differences between storage container sizes is essential.
Whether you’re looking for storage containers for sale to keep permanently or storage containers for hire for a short-term project, this guide breaks down each size, explains what fits inside, and helps you select the ideal container for your move or storage needs.
Why Choosing the Right Storage Container Size Matters
Selecting the correct storage container size ensures:
- You don’t pay extra for unused space
- Your items fit comfortably without risk of damage
- You can pack efficiently and avoid needing multiple containers
- You save time during loading and unloading
- Your relocation or storage project stays organised and stress-free
Using a container that’s too small often forces people to make multiple trips, rent an extra unit, or cram items inside. Overpacked containers increase the chance of items shifting or breaking during transportation. On the other hand, choosing a container that’s far too large means unnecessary cost.
The goal is to find a size that fits your belongings perfectly – secure, spacious, and cost-effective.
Common Moving Storage Container Sizes Explained
- 10ft Storage Containers
10ft containers are the smallest standard-sized storage units. They’re ideal for individuals or small households who need compact, secure storage.
Key features:
- internal volume: 560 cubic ft
- Dimensions: 10ft (L) x 8ft (W) x 8.5ft (H)
- Fits into tight spaces such as driveways, small gardens, or narrow access points
Best for:
- Studio or small flat moves
- Seasonal items, holiday décor, or garden tools
- Motorbikes or bicycles
- Archive boxes or small business storage
- Temporary renovation storage
If you’re looking for a compact long-term solution, 10ft storage containers for sale are excellent for home and business use. If you only need short-term space for moving or decluttering, 10ft storage containers for hire offer flexibility and affordability.
- 20ft Storage Containers (Most Popular)
The 20ft container is the world’s most widely used storage container and the go-to choice for most house moves and general storage projects.
Key features:
- internal volume: 1,160 cubic ft
- Dimensions: 20ft (L) x 8ft (W) x 8.5ft (H)
- Versatile, secure, weatherproof, and easy to transport
Best for:
- 1-3 bedroom house moves
- Business storage, tools, and equipment
- Construction site storage
- Furniture and appliances
- E-commerce inventory
- Secure document storage
A 20ft container can typically hold the contents of an average household, making it ideal for moves. This size is also extremely popular among buyers exploring storage containers for sale, as it works well for long-term storage, workshops, and conversions. For temporary projects, 20ft storage containers for hire are cost-effective and widely available.
- 40ft Storage Containers
If you need maximum storage space, the 40ft container is the largest standard option available.
Key features:
- internal volume: 2,360 cubic ft
- Dimensions: 40ft (L) x 8ft (W) x 8.5ft (H)
- Double the capacity of a 20ft container
- Ideal for commercial and industrial use
Best for:
- Large home moves
- Business relocations
- Warehouse and logistics overflow
- Bulky furniture and equipment
- Palletised goods
- Long-term commercial storage
For clients wanting a permanent onsite container, 40ft storage containers for sale are a great investment. For short-term business projects, logistics, or seasonal inventory, 40ft storage containers for hire provide scalable capacity without long-term commitment.
Specialty Storage Containers You Should Know About
Apart from standard sizes, you may also encounter specialised storage containers designed for unique storage or transport needs.
High Cube Storage Containers
- 1ft taller than standard units
- Perfect for taller items or high-volume cargo
- Available in both 20ft and 40ft
Refrigerated (Reefer) Storage Containers
- Temperature-controlled units
- Popular for food, pharmaceuticals, or catering businesses
Open Top Containers
- Allow loading from above
- Ideal for oversized materials
These options are usually found as both storage containers for hire and storage containers for sale, depending on inventory.
How Much Fits Inside Each Storage Container Size?
Choosing the right size depends on the volume of items you’re moving or storing. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you estimate.
What fits inside a 10ft container?
- Contents of a studio / small flat
- Small sofa, bed, wardrobe, and boxes
- Motorbike + equipment
- Seasonal storage (garden tools, sports gear)
What fits inside a 20ft container?
- Contents of a 2-3 bedroom house
- Large appliances (fridge, freezer, washing machine)
- Full living room and bedroom sets
- Office desks, chairs, filing cabinets
What fits inside a 40ft container?
- Contents of a 4-5 bedroom home
- Large commercial inventory
- Oversized machinery or furniture
- Palletised goods for businesses
When unsure, many people choose a 20ft container, as it offers the best balance between capacity and cost.
Storage Containers for Sale vs Storage Containers for Hire
Depending on your needs, you may choose to purchase or hire a storage container.
Storage Containers for Sale
Buying is ideal if you need long-term or permanent storage. Benefits include:
- Cost-effective over time
- Ideal for farms, construction sites, or warehouses
- Can be customised or converted into offices, workshops, or studios
- Immediate access whenever you need it
Many people also buy containers for home use – such as garden storage, garage overflow, or hobby spaces.
Storage Containers for Hire
Renting is perfect for short-term needs, such as:
- House moving
- Office renovations
- Seasonal business demand
- Temporary site storage
- Events and festivals
Hiring gives you flexibility without the upfront investment – great when you only need the container for a few weeks or months.
How to Choose the Right Storage Container Size
Here are the most important factors to consider:
✔ 1. The amount of space you need
Create a list of items you’re storing. If you’re in doubt, choose the next size up – it’s often cheaper than hiring two smaller containers.
✔ 2. Duration of storage
- Short-term: storage containers for hire
- Long-term: storage containers for sale
✔ 3. Access requirements
If you need daily access to items, make sure you choose a size that leaves walking space inside.
✔ 4. Location
Measure your driveway, yard, or site. A 40ft container requires about 100ft of straight clearance for delivery.
✔ 5. Purpose
Are you moving home? Running a business? Storing equipment? Purpose determines size and type.
Benefits of Using Storage Containers for Moving
Storage containers offer a flexible and stress-free moving process:
- Pack at your own pace
- Secure, weatherproof design
- No need for a moving van
- Ideal for temporary on-site storage
- Great for long-distance relocations
- Affordable compared to traditional moving companies
With both storage containers for hire and storage containers for sale, you can choose whatever suits your timeline and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Storage Containers
- What size storage container do I need for a house move?
Most 1-3 bedroom homes fit comfortably in a 20ft storage container. Larger homes (4-5 bedrooms) typically require a 40ft container.
- How much can you fit in a 20ft storage container?
A 20ft container holds around 1,160 cubic ft, enough for furniture, appliances, and boxed items from an average household.
- Are storage containers suitable for long-term storage?
Yes. High-quality storage containers are fully weatherproof, secure, and designed to protect items for years, making them ideal for long-term storage.
- Should I rent or buy a storage container?
Rent storage containers for hire if you only need temporary space. Choose storage containers for sale if you require ongoing, permanent storage.
- Can a storage container fit in a driveway?
A 10ft or 20ft container fits most UK driveways. A 40ft container usually requires more open space and professional delivery access.
- What is the most popular storage container size?
The 20ft storage container is the most commonly used size worldwide due to its versatility, capacity, and cost-effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right storage container size makes your move or storage project smoother, safer, and more efficient. Whether you’re looking for storage containers for sale for long-term use or storage containers for hire for a short-term move, understanding the differences between 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft containers ensures you pick the best option for your needs.