High cube blue container: RAL 5010, height 2.90 m original colour
The blue RAL 5010 high cube is the most economical HC: interior height of 2.69 m (vs 2.39 m standard), original colour without extra cost. Ideal for converting to living space (comfortable ceiling height), stacking two levels of pallets, or a premium garden office. Immediate availability.
Price for 2026 and paint options
The blue RAL 5010 high cube is the most economical HC: interior height of 2.69 m (vs 2.39 m standard), original colour without extra cost. Ideal for converting to living space (comfortable ceiling height), stacking two levels of pallets, or a premium garden office. Immediate availability.
| Condition / Option | Price Excl. VAT | For what use |
|---|---|---|
| Grade A/B high cube used (original blue colour) | 2 100 € – 3 800 € | Budget living space conversion, pallet storage |
| One-trip high cube RAL 5010 | 4 200 € – 4 800 € | Shipping container house with comfortable ceiling height |
| Brand new factory HC RAL 5010 standard | 4 500 € – 6 200 € | High-end architecture, project for over 25 years |
Excluding delivery. Original blue HC = variable stock depending on ports, sometimes up to 2 weeks lead time vs 5-10 days standard.
RAL Code
RAL 5010
For whom?
Premium living space conversion (ceiling height of 2.69 m interior), pallet stackers with an extra 30 cm in height compared to standard — the original blue HC is approximately 5-10% more expensive than a standard 40-foot container, justified by the additional 30 cm of usable height.
Key points
- Interior height of 2.69 m (vs 2.39 m for standard 40 feet)
- RAL 5010 = original colour, no extra cost for painting
- Allows a comfortable living ceiling height plus 80 mm insulation without reducing the space
- Compatible with stacking two levels of pallets (1.30 m + 1.30 m)
- Slightly lower availability than standard 40' (+5-7 days lead time)
The colour in detail
Look & origin
RAL 5010 blue is the factory livery of most shipping containers (Maersk, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd): a deep, slightly greyed blue, applied as two-pack polyurethane paint straight onto the Corten steel at the factory. On a used container, it is the colour you will most often find with no repaint at all.
Upkeep & durability
Built for the marine environment, this blue is UV-stabilised and holds for 12 to 15 years before any visible fading. A roller touch-up (anti-rust primer + RAL 5010 polyurethane) is enough to refresh exposed areas, and because it is a standard shade the match stays easy and cheap.
Uses & planning rules
Ideal wherever the industrial look is an asset: storage, site cabins, tiny houses and unapologetic conversions. It is also the cheapest option, with no paint surcharge. No specific planning constraint, but in a residential area cladding is still recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a blue original high cube more expensive than a standard 40' container?+
Additional cost ~5-10 % compared to equivalent standard 40'. Lower production volume (about 30% of the 40' fleet), strong demand (habitable conversion, stacked pallets). European ports also charge slightly more for high cube rotation (greater vertical obstruction). Justified investment for habitable use.
Is the blue high cube RAL 5010 still in stock?+
Yes, but with a slightly longer lead time than standard 40': 7-15 days at major European ports (vs. 5-10 days for standard 40'). For urgent delivery, check local depot stock at the time of order.
Is the blue high cube transportable like a normal 40-foot container?+
Yes — standard chassis, same turning radius. The only difference is the total loaded height: 4.30 m (vs. 4 m for standard 40'). Check bridge clearance on delivery route. Most European drivers know high cube-friendly routes.
What is the cost to repaint a high cube container blue in RAL XXX?+
€1,100-€1,600 at professional applicator (HC = ~5% surface area more than standard 40' due to height). For four visible sides only: €800-€1,100. Self-application: €400-€550 for professional polyurethane materials.
Is RAL 5010 blue subject to planning rules?+
Original blue is not banned, but in a residential or protected area (near a listed monument, strict local plan) the council may require an integration colour or cladding. Check the local plan before installing: prior notice of works is required from 5 m² of ground footprint.
Does blue heat up a lot in the sun?+
It is a mid-range shade: cooler than black or dark red, warmer than white. For storage the difference is negligible. For habitable use, internal insulation is essential whatever the colour.
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