A high cube container is a shipping container that includes an extra foot of height compared with a standard shipping container, giving more internal volume for storage of goods, transport, and site applications. Late delivery of shipping containers costs you thousands, and choosing the wrong shipping container can lead to project delays, wasted space, or expensive modifications later.
On construction, mining, and logistics sites across Australia, you cannot afford site downtime. When equipment, cargo, goods, or materials need to be stored securely and delivered on time, selecting the right shipping container becomes critical. The key decision most businesses face is whether a standard shipping container will meet their needs or whether the extra height of a high cube container will provide the flexibility required for efficient operations.
This guide explains the difference between standard shipping containers and high cube shipping containers, how their dimensions affect capacity, and how to choose the right container to buy or hire for storage, shipping, or modified site applications.
Standard vs High Cube Containers: What’s the Real Difference?
The primary difference between standard shipping containers and high cube shipping containers is height. A standard shipping container typically measures 8 feet 6 inches in external height, while a high cube container measures approximately 9 feet 6 inches. That additional foot of height increases internal space and makes it easier to store tall equipment or stack goods.
Standard shipping containers have been used in global freight transport for decades. They are designed to stack efficiently during shipping and logistics operations. Because they follow the original ISO shipping standards, they remain the most common shipping container type used for cargo transport and storage of goods.
High cube shipping containers were introduced to accommodate cargo that requires greater internal clearance. Although they have the same length and width as standard shipping containers, the additional vertical height creates more usable volume.
Across Australia, high cube shipping containers have become increasingly popular for modified container applications. Industries such as mining, construction, rail infrastructure, agriculture, and logistics often use them for portable site offices, workshops, portable buildings, and accommodation units.
The difference may only be one foot in height, but the increased internal clearance can significantly improve usability in many applications.
When choosing the right shipping container for your project, that extra height can make a big difference in usability and flexibility. Whether you plan to buy a new or used unit, hire a portable solution for a worksite, or looking for a refrigerated shipping container, the team at SCR Australia is ready to help.
We make it easy to contact our specialists, request a free quote, and find the ideal shipping container configuration from general freight units to refrigerated options and portable site solutions.
If you’re looking to buy, hire, or customise a new, used, or portable shipping container with doors on the side or specialised refrigerated capability, simply contact SCR Australia today for a competitive quote and expert guidance.
Container Dimensions Compared: Standard vs High Cube Sizes
Understanding container dimensions is important when selecting the right container to buy or hire for storing, transport, or site use. While standard and high cube containers share the same length and width, the difference in height changes the internal volume available.
The most common container sizes available in Australia are 20ft and 40ft containers. High cube containers maintain the same footprint while increasing vertical clearance.
| Container Type | External Height | Internal Height | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard Container | 8 ft 6 in | approx. 7 ft 10 in | 20 ft | 8 ft |
| 40ft Standard Container | 8 ft 6 in | approx. 7 ft 10 in | 40 ft | 8 ft |
| 20ft High Cube Container | 9 ft 6 in | approx. 8 ft 10 in | 20 ft | 8 ft |
| 40ft High Cube Container | 9 ft 6 in | approx. 8 ft 10 in | 40 ft | 8 ft |
Because the footprint remains the same, high cube containers provide more vertical capacity without requiring additional ground space. This is especially useful on construction or mining sites where available site space may be limited.
If height, access, or specialised features are important for your project, selecting the right containers is essential. SCR Australia supplies new and used shipping containers and offers flexible options to buy or hire containers for worksites, transport, and project use across many industries.
From general-purpose shipping containers to refrigerated shipping containers, our team can help you choose containers that match your operational needs, including designs with side openings for easier equipment loading and access.
If you are planning to buy new shipping containers, hire shipping containers, or explore refrigerated containers with side access, the best next step is to contact SCR Australia. Contact our experienced team today to discuss available containers, compare options, and secure the right new containers for your project.
How Much Extra Space Does a High Cube Container Provide?
The additional foot of height in a high cube container increases internal volume by roughly 10 to 13 percent compared with a standard container of the same length.
That increase in internal volume can make a noticeable difference when storing equipment or cargo. Taller items can be stored more easily, and stacked goods can fit more efficiently within the container.
The extra clearance is particularly useful when containers are modified into workspaces, storage rooms, or accommodation units. More headroom allows the interior to be fitted with lighting, insulation, shelving, side opening doors, and ventilation systems without reducing usable space.
For many construction and mining projects, the added capacity can also reduce the number of containers required on site. Don’t wait, contact us today and buy or hire shipping containers tailored to your needs.
When a Standard Shipping Container Is the Better Choice
Standard containers remain the most widely used container type in global shipping and storage. They are typically the best choice when cargo or equipment does not require additional vertical space.
Standard containers are also commonly available in used grades, making them a more affordable option for temporary storage or short-term hire.
Many businesses use standard containers for practical storage and transport needs across construction sites, warehouses, and agricultural operations.
Typical uses for standard containers include:
Because standard containers are produced in large quantities, they are widely available and often easier to source quickly.
Whether you want to buy new shipping containers or hire shipping containers, SCR Australia can help. We also offer containers with convenient side access for easier loading and site use. Contact our team today to buy, hire, or discuss the right shipping containers for your project.
When You Should Choose a High Cube Container Instead
High cube containers are the better option when height and internal capacity are important. The additional vertical space allows for more flexible storage arrangements and improved usability for modified container applications.
Industries that frequently use high cube containers include mining, construction, transport, and manufacturing. These sectors often need additional space for large equipment, interior fittings, or customised container layouts.
Common uses for high cube containers include:
The additional headroom makes it easier to install internal fixtures such as lighting, ventilation systems, shelving units, or partitioned rooms.
Standard vs High Cube for Storage, Shipping, and Container Conversions
Choosing between a standard container and a high cube container often depends on the intended use.
For simple storage, both types provide strong steel construction, weather protection, and secure locking doors. Many businesses use containers as secure site storage for tools, machinery, and materials.
High cube containers become more beneficial when vertical space is required. They allow items to be stacked more efficiently and provide better clearance for larger equipment.
High cube containers are also widely used in container modification projects. When converting containers into offices, workshops, or accommodation units, additional height makes the interior more comfortable and functional.
In transport applications, standard containers remain the industry norm for global shipping. However, high cube containers are commonly used for bulky cargo that requires additional clearance but does not exceed weight limits.
High Cube vs Standard Container Costs in Australia
The price of a container in Australia varies depending on several factors. These include the size of the container, whether the unit is new or used, the container grade, and delivery distance.
High cube containers generally cost slightly more because they require additional steel and provide greater capacity.
However, the increased internal volume can make high cube containers more cost-efficient in certain situations. If the extra space allows you to store more items in a single container, it may reduce the total number of containers required.
Businesses also consider the cost of container modifications. When building offices, workshops, or accommodation units, high cube containers often provide better internal clearance, reducing the need for structural adjustments during the conversion process.
Reliable suppliers usually provide transparent pricing and clear hire terms so businesses can compare container options effectively.
Simple 3 Step Process to Choose the Right Container
Selecting the right container does not have to be complicated. A simple evaluation process can help businesses determine which container type suits their needs.
- 1
Identify your intended use. Determine whether the container will be used for storage, shipping, equipment protection, or a modified site facility.
- 2
Compare container dimensions and capacity. Check whether a standard container provides enough clearance or whether the additional height of a high cube container is required.
- 3
Request a quote from a reliable supplier. A container specialist can confirm availability, recommend the right container type, and organise delivery to your site.
Standard vs High Cube: Which Container Should You Choose?
The choice between a standard container and a high cube container ultimately depends on how much internal space your project requires.
Standard containers are ideal for general storage and freight transport where additional vertical space is not necessary. They are widely available and often represent the most affordable option.
High cube containers are better suited for situations where increased height improves storage efficiency or usability. They are commonly used for modified container applications, large equipment storage, and cargo that requires extra clearance.
Across Australia, industries such as mining, construction, and logistics often rely on high cube containers because the additional internal space allows greater flexibility on site.
When projects move quickly and storage needs change, having the right container available can prevent costly delays.
If you are planning a project and need reliable container solutions, the best step is to request a quote from a trusted supplier who can recommend the right container and organise fast delivery to your location.
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