40ft High Cube (HC) Container: Dimensions, Capacity & Benefits

If you walk through any major logistics hub today, you will notice a distinct yellow and black "zebra stripe" tape on the top frame of many containers. That marks a 40ft High Cube (HC).

Listed in the TraceContainer.com system as "40 High Cube" or "40HC", this container is the reigning king of global consumer trade. Why? Because for a tiny increase in shipping cost, you get a massive increase in volume.

This guide explains why the High Cube is the default choice for importers and the critical dimension differences you need to know.

What is a 40ft High Cube?

The 40ft High Cube is structurally similar to a Standard 40ft container, but with one game-changing difference: Height.

• Standard Container: 8ft 6in (2.59m) tall.

• High Cube Container: 9ft 6in (2.90m) tall.

That extra 12 inches (30 cm) of vertical space might not sound like much, but across the length of a 40ft box, it adds up to a significant volume increase.

Why Choose HC over Standard? (The "Cube Out" Rule)

In logistics, you either "Weigh Out" (hit the max weight) or "Cube Out" (fill the space). Most modern manufactured goods like furniture, electronics, clothing, foam mattresses are light but bulky. 

They fill the container long before they hit the weight limit.

• 40ft Standard Capacity: ~67 cubic meters.

• 40ft High Cube Capacity: ~76 cubic meters.

The Benefit: You gain roughly 13% more space for almost the same shipping price. This lowers your "Cost Per Unit" significantly.

40ft High Cube Dimensions

Note: The defining feature is the internal height.

Visual Identification: 40ft High Cube Shipping Container

How do you spot an HC in the yard? Look at the top corners. Shipping lines are required to put yellow and black hazard stripes (decals) on the top frame of High Cubes. This warns crane operators and truck drivers that the container is taller than normal.

Road Transport Warning (The Gooseneck)

Before booking a 40HC, consider the trucking at the destination. Because the container is taller, placing it on a standard flatbed trailer might make the truck too tall for bridges and tunnels (especially in the US and Europe).

• Solution: Truckers use a "Gooseneck Chassis"—a trailer that rides lower to the ground to compensate for the extra height of the container.

What Fits Inside?

1. Tall Pallets: You can stack pallets higher (up to 2.6m).

2. Furniture: Sofas and wardrobes can be stood upright.

3. Machinery: Light industrial equipment that is just slightly too tall for a standard box (saving you from booking an expensive Open Top).

Track Your 40HC Shipment

Is your High Cube stuck at customs or arriving at the warehouse? Because High Cubes are the most common container for retail goods, they are also the most important to track. Get real-time updates with TraceContainer.com.

Track My High Cube