Small shipping containers like the 6ft, 8ft, and 10ft options are uncommon in the market but offer significant benefits. In this blog, we delve into the dimensions and sizes of these mini containers and provide practical tips on how to ship them effortlessly.
Table of Contents:
What are small shipping containers?
When we talk about “small shipping containers,” we mean containers that are more compact than the standard sizes, like 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft high cubes. These smaller containers are perfect for lightweight cargo or limited storage needs. They’re easy to move, space-efficient, and provide reliable protection to keep your items safe and dry.
Types of the smallest shipping containers
Dimensions and size of mini containers
| Length | Width | Height | Cubic Capacity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6ft Container | 5.7ft (1.7m) | 5.8ft (1.72m) | 5.9ft (1.75m) | 195.99 cu ft (5.55 cu m) |
| 8ft Container | 7.6ft (2.28m) | 6.11ft (2.10m) | 6.7ft (2.02m) | 431.19 cu ft (12.21 cu m) |
| 10ft Container | 11.5ft (3.5m) | 8ft (2.44m) | 8.5ft (2.59m) | 782 cu ft (22.12 cu m) |
And now that we’ve seen the numbers, here are some practices about what things you can fit into each size.
The 6ft container is ideal for storing:
- 2 to 3 bicycles, depending on size
- 4 to 6 compact chairs
- 3 to 5 small household appliances
The 8ft container can accommodate:
- 5 to 8 small appliances
- 3 to 4 medium-sized TVs
- 16 to 20 standard-sized cardboard boxes (18″ x 18″ x 24″)
The 10ft container is spacious enough for:
- 4 to 5 motorcycles
- 4 pallets measuring 40” x 48” (1.016m x 1.219m)
- The contents of a small, one-bedroom apartment
When selecting the appropriate container size for your shipping needs, it’s necessary to make sure the capacity aligns with your shipment. You can share your cargo details and requirements with our shipping experts, and we will provide customized logistics solutions tailored to your cargo.
How much does a small shipping container weigh?
Let’s break down the tare weight (the weight of an empty container) and payload capacity (the maximum weight it can carry) for small shipping containers.
6ft shipping container weight
A 6ft container has a tare weight of about 1,763.7 lbs (800 kgs), which is roughly equivalent to the weight of 32 washing machines, depending on the model. It can carry a payload of up to 1,102.31 lbs (500 kgs).
8ft shipping container weight
The 8ft container weighs approximately 2,204.62 lbs (1,000 kgs) when empty, similar to the weight of about four average-sized cars. Its payload capacity is up to 5,512 lbs (2,500 kgs).
10ft shipping container weight
The 10ft container has a tare weight of around 2,866 lbs (1,300 kgs), which is about the same as 65 standard bags of rice (assuming each bag weighs 20 kgs). This container can hold up to 19,752.97 lbs (8,959.8 kgs) of cargo.
How much does it cost to ship internationally?
The price of transporting a mini container can vary based on several factors, including:
Shipping distance: Shorter trips typically cost more per mile but are generally less expensive overall due to fewer handling charges.
Additional services: Some freight companies offer extra services like packing, loading, unloading, and storage solutions, which can affect the total cost.
On average, shipping a full container to the United States can range from $2,000 to $7,000. For a precise quote, reach out to our expert team.
When to use small shipping containers?
Lightweight cargo shipping
Small shipping containers are perfect for transporting light, compact loads. They’re beneficial for moving seasonal supplies that can be shipped in small quantities at specific times of the year. In addition, their lightweight design makes them easy to load and unload, with costly lifting equipment.
Storage solutions
Small containers are excellent for storing household items, furniture, tools, and building materials. As long as the containers are in good condition and meet ISO standards, they will keep your belongings safe, dry, and protected from the elements.
Get the best container shipping rate
Choosing the right shipping container is crucial for meeting your storage and transport needs. At Airsupply, we offer the most competitive container shipping rates tailored to your specific requirements. Additionally, our value-added services, such as inspection, repacking, and labeling, ensure that your shipment complies with all regulations.
