The high cube: the extra 30 cm that make all the difference
A high cube (HC) is a 40 or 45-foot container with an additional 30 cm in height — from 2.39 m to 2.70 m interior. While seemingly insignificant on paper, it becomes decisive when converting living spaces, offices, shops, or comfortable site accommodation units. Explanation.
Key Features
- External length
- 12,192 m
- External width
- 2,438 m
- External height
- 2,896 m
- Internal Height
- 2,697 m
Dimensions: standard vs high cube
| Characteristic | 40 feet standard | 40 feet HC | 45 feet HC |
|---|---|---|---|
| External length | 12,192 m | 12,192 m | 13,716 m |
| External width | 2,438 m | 2,438 m | 2,438 m |
| External height | 2,591 m | 2,896 m | 2,896 m |
| Internal Height | 2,390 m | 2,697 m | 2,697 m |
| Internal volume | 67 m³ | 76 m³ | 86 m³ |
| Internal floor area | 28,3 m² | 28,3 m² | 31,9 m² |
When to choose high cube?
- Housing — systematic. The minimum comfortable ceiling height after insulation is impossible to achieve with a standard container.
- Office, commerce, ERP — Standard. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 recommend 2.5m minimum ceiling height in spaces accessible to the public, and 2.4m for general workrooms (Approved Code of Practice L24).
- Prestige site cabin — for long-term construction sites where team comfort is a priority, opt for a fitted-out high cube container.
- Storage of bulky products — machines, furniture, palletised goods stacked high: an additional 30 cm can fit one more line.
- Standard is sufficient for — classic pallet storage, workshop, maritime transport of non-bulky goods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a standard 40 feet and a high cube?+
The height only. Standard dry: 2,591 m exterior / 2,390 m interior. High cube: 2,896 m exterior / 2,697 m interior. That is a difference of 30 cm. The length (12,192 m) and width (2,438 m) are identical. Empty weight slightly higher for the HC (+150 to +200 kg). Interior volume 67 m³ (standard) vs 76 m³ (HC).
Why does height make such a big difference?+
In a standard container, once the interior insulation is installed (80 to 100 mm of material + finish coating), only 2.20 to 2.25 m of habitable height remains. This is barely sufficient and uncomfortable over time. With a high cube, after lining, you retain 2.50 to 2.55 m — a comfortable ceiling height, close to that of a typical living space.
Does a 45 feet high cube exist?+
Yes, it is the long format. 13,716 m exterior length, 13,556 m interior length, 86 m³ volume. Less common in France (smaller fleet), it is mainly found second-hand via shipping lines that use it for high-density export. Price higher by 10 to 20% compared to a 40 feet high cube. Ideal for multi-room accommodation fitting on one module.
How much does a high cube cost in 2026?+
40 feet HC new: £4,725 – £6,510. One-trip: £4,410 – £5,670. Grade A used: £3,360 – £4,410. Grade B: £2,730 – £3,675. Grade C: £2,205 – £3,045. Rare as new for 45 feet HC (on order), second-hand £4,410 – £6,825. Delivery to add £420 – £1,155 (additional height constraint).
Mind the height during transport?+
Yes. A 40-foot high cube on a trailer measures between 4.15 and 4.25 m in height, which is the upper limit for standard French road bridges (4.20 m). Always check the delivery route (no passage under low bridges) and inform the supplier if the journey includes restricted areas. Some routes require special transport permits.