20ft Shipping Containers for Sale

ATS supplies 20ft shipping containers for sale in Canada for secure commercial storage and modification projects. For organizations evaluating a 20ft container for sale, the standard size provides approximately 148 sq. ft. of interior floor space while remaining practical for many commercial and industrial sites.

ATS can arrange ground-level delivery from its Canadian depot network and provide accessories or modifications to suit the application.

What Is a 20ft Shipping Container?

A 20ft shipping container, also called a 20ft sea container, is a standardized steel unit used for cargo transport, secure storage and commercial modification projects. Standard cargo doors provide full-width access at one end, and the container can be placed at ground level for direct loading.

The 20ft format balances storage volume with site efficiency. It is commonly selected when an organization needs more capacity than a mini container but does not require the length of a 40ft unit.

20ft Shipping Container Dimensions and Capacity

A standard 20ft shipping container has an exterior length of 20 feet, a width of 8 feet and a height of 8 feet 6 inches. Its dimensions provide substantial storage capacity in a footprint that can be accommodated on many commercial sites.

SpecificationStandard Configuration
Exterior dimensions20′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H
Interior dimensions19’4″ L x 7’8″ W x 7’10” H
Door opening7’8″ W x 7’5″ H
Interior floor areaApprox. 148 sq. ft.
Interior volumeApprox. 1,160 cu. ft.
Tare weightApprox. 4,820 lb
PayloadApprox. 62,380 lb

 

 

These figures are representative of current ATS standard 20ft configurations and are intended for initial planning. Exact dimensions, weight and payload can vary by unit, manufacturer, condition and configuration.

View the complete shipping container size chart

Built for Secure Commercial Storage

Construction and included features vary by condition, grade and configuration. Depending on the selected unit, specifications may include:

  • CORTEN steel construction: Corrugated steel panels designed for strength and long service in exposed conditions.
  • Marine-grade plywood flooring: Current standard configurations use 19-ply flooring that is approximately 1.1 inches (28 mm) thick.
  • Weatherproof vents: Passive ventilation supports airflow through the container.
  • Locking-bar cargo doors: Steel locking bars and door seals provide secure access and weather protection.
  • Forklift pockets: Integrated pockets support handling where specified for the unit.
  • Secure lockbox: Certain configurations include a steel housing that protects the padlock from easy access.

ATS provides the exact features, dimensions, approximate weight and payload for each available product. This allows buyers to evaluate the selected unit against site, storage, security and procurement requirements.

Choosing a New or Used 20ft Container

Condition availability changes with inventory. The product cards above show the new, used and other 20ft container configurations currently available.

New one-trip 20ft container

A new, one-trip container provides a clean, uniform appearance with limited prior usage. Current standard configurations may include factory paint, marine-grade plywood flooring, weatherproof vents, easy-access locking-bar handles, forklift pockets and a lockbox.

Used 20ft container

A used container provides secure commercial storage with the established appearance of prior cargo usage. Cosmetic wear may include surface rust, faded paint and minor dents.

Common Applications for 20ft Shipping Containers

The 20ft format supports a wide range of business and institutional storage requirements:

  • Construction and engineering projects: Tools, equipment, consumables and project materials.
  • Mining and industrial operations: Parts, maintenance supplies and field equipment.
  • Manufacturing and service operations: Work-in-progress inventory, replacement parts and tooling.
  • Retail and distribution: Seasonal stock, fixtures, packaging and overflow inventory.
  • Transportation and automotive: Tires, parts, service equipment and fleet supplies.
  • Agriculture: Tools, operating materials, feed supplies and smaller equipment.
  • Schools and municipalities: Grounds equipment, records, athletics gear and program supplies.
  • Events and hospitality: Staging, furniture, equipment and supplies between uses.

Accessories and Modifications

A 20ft container can be configured around access needs, security, workflow and environmental requirements. Available options depend on the selected unit and project scope.

Options may include paint, decals, shelving, electrical service, lighting, ventilation, insulation, windows, personnel doors and roll-up doors. Security accessories include padlocks, puck lockboxes and other lockbox configurations.

View container accessories and the complete inventory of custom modifications.

Delivery and Site Placement

ATS commonly delivers 20ft containers by tilt-and-load truck for ground-level placement.
To ensure a smooth drop-off, typical planning requirements for a 20ft delivery include:

  • Straight-line clearance: A minimum of approximately 65 feet for the truck, trailer and container.
  • Width clearance: A minimum of approximately 14 feet.
  • Overhead clearance: Approximately 18 feet while the trailer is raised.
  • Ground conditions: A firm, dry and level surface that can support the loaded delivery vehicle and container.
  • Drainage: A prepared surface that limits standing water beneath the container.
  • Door orientation: The requested final door position determines how the container is loaded on the delivery trailer.

Site requirements can vary based on the delivery vehicle, access route and placement location. Please refer to our container delivery guide.

20ft Shipping Container Pricing

Each 20ft container for sale is quoted for the selected type and delivery location. The main pricing factors are:

  • Container condition and grade: New one-trip, wind and watertight, cargo worthy or another available classification.
  • Current inventory: Availability at the nearest serving depot.
  • Delivery requirements: Distance, site access, equipment and placement orientation.
  • Accessories and modifications: Paint, doors, shelving, ventilation, electrical work and other selected options.
  • Order quantity: The number of units required and the delivery schedule.

Request a quote or contact a container specialist at 1.866.846.0270 for current pricing and availability.

20ft Shipping Container FAQs

What are the dimensions of a 20ft shipping container?
A standard 20ft shipping container measures approximately 20 feet long, 8 feet wide and 8 feet 6 inches high on the exterior. Representative interior dimensions are 19 feet 4 inches long, 7 feet 8 inches wide and 7 feet 10 inches high. Exact dimensions vary by unit and manufacturer.
How much storage space is inside a 20ft container?
A representative standard configuration provides approximately 148 sq. ft. of interior floor space and 1,160 cu. ft. of storage volume. Shelving, access requirements and the shape of the stored goods affect usable capacity.
Are 20ft shipping containers available new or used?
Availability varies with current inventory. ATS may offer new, used or multiple grade and configuration options. The product cards above show the 20ft shipping containers currently available for purchase.
How much does a 20ft shipping container cost?
The price depends on the unit’s condition, depot location, delivery requirements and selected modifications or accessories. Contact our team with your exact requirements for a customized quote.
How many pallets fit in a 20ft container?
A standard 20ft container can typically accommodate 10 standard North American pallets or 11 Euro pallets on the floor. Actual capacity depends on pallet dimensions, load arrangement, product height, weight and required access.
Can a 20ft shipping container be modified?
Yes. ATS offers a full range of custom modifications to fit your specific application. We can equip 20ft units with roll-up or personnel doors, windows, industrial shelving, electrical service, climate control (insulation and ventilation), and custom paint or decals. Speak with a container specialist to confirm the best upgrades for your project.
Does a 20ft container require a concrete pad?
A concrete pad is not required for every placement. The container needs firm, dry and level support with suitable drainage. Concrete, pavement, compacted gravel and properly positioned supports may be appropriate depending on the site. On soft or uneven ground, container leveling pads or container leveling legs under the corners keep the unit level and the doors aligned.
How is a 20ft shipping container delivered?
ATS commonly uses a tilt-and-load truck to place a 20ft container at ground level.

Have a question?
Contact a container specialist.

Request a shipping container