20' dry
Length: 5.90 m
Width: 2.35 m
Height: 2.39 m
Door width: 2.34 m
Door height: 2.28 m
Max payload: 28.20 t
Capacity: 33 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 11
ISO code: 22G0
Facts
A 20' dry container is used for - as the name suggests - transport of dry cargo. A 20-foot container measures 5.90 metres in length, 2.35 metres in width and 2.39 metres in height. The door width is 2.34 metres, while the door height measures 2.28 metres. The tare weight is 2,300 kilos.
The payload is the maximum loading capacity, and it is 28,200 kg on a 20 'container. The cubic capacity of a 20-foot dry container is 33 cubic metres. As a rule, a 20-foot container has a capacity of 11 EUR pallets of 120 x 80 centimetres each.
The 20' container is the most popular worldwide. It is also the smallest container within the standard dimensions, and it is often used for heavy loads, such as machinery and raw materials e.g., iron or similar used in the building and construction industry. But it is also used for transporting ordinary consumer goods and products.
When should you choose a 20-foot dry container?
A 20-foot dry container (DC) is one of the most commonly used container types for general cargo. It is a reliable and flexible choice for goods that do not require temperature control and can be loaded through standard container doors.
This container is especially suitable when your cargo is relatively heavy, but does not require the full space of a 40-foot container. With its compact size and strong payload capacity, the 20-foot dry container is often used for dense cargo where weight is more important than volume.
A 20-foot dry container is typically equipped with lashing rings in both the bottom and top of the container. These can be used to help secure the cargo during transport, provided the cargo is correctly lashed and stowed inside the container.
Before booking, it is important to check both the internal dimensions and the door opening. This is especially relevant if your cargo is packed in crates, loaded on pallets or has limited clearance.
A 20-foot dry container can normally fit up to 11 EUR pallets, depending on the cargo layout and packaging. If your cargo is light but takes up more space, a 40-foot dry container may be a better option.
Although container dimensions are standardised, actual measurements and payload may vary slightly depending on container manufacturer, age and equipment availability. For heavy cargo or goods with unusual dimensions, the specifications should always be confirmed before transport.
Blue Water’s sea freight specialists can help you assess whether a 20-foot dry container is the right solution for your shipment. We consider your cargo type, weight, route, loading method and delivery requirements to help ensure a safe and efficient transport setup.
A 20-foot dry container is often used for:
Machinery and spare parts
Raw materials and industrial components
Metal products and tools
Building materials
Packaged goods
Consumer products
Cargo loaded on EUR pallets
Smaller full container load shipments
Frequently Asked Questions
A 20-foot dry container (DC) is used for dry general cargo such as machinery, raw materials, industrial components, building materials, packaged goods and consumer products.
A 20-foot dry container can normally fit up to 11 EUR pallets. The exact number depends on pallet type, cargo dimensions, packaging and loading method.
A 20-foot container is often the better choice for heavy cargo where weight is the main limitation. A 40-foot container is usually better for lighter cargo that requires more loading space.
No. A dry container is not temperature-controlled. For goods that require a specific temperature during transport, a reefer container is normally required.
Only if the cargo fits within the internal dimensions and can be loaded through the container doors. If the cargo is too high, too wide or difficult to load, an open top or flat rack container may be more suitable.
Yes. Container dimensions and payload may vary slightly depending on the specific equipment. Always confirm the details before booking, especially for heavy cargo or cargo with limited clearance
Container types and sizes
Please note! Dimensions are a guideline only. For exact dimensions and container directions, please contact Blue Water. Containers for heavy cargo are available on request.
20' Dry container
Length: 5.90 m
Width: 2.35 m
Height: 2.39 m
Door width: 2.34 m
Door height: 2.28 m
Max payload: 28.20 t
Capacity: 33 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 11
20' Open top container
Length: 5.90 m
Width: 2.34 m
Height: 2.35 m
Door width: 2.29 m
Door height: 2.25 m
Max payload: 28.20 t
Roof opening: 5.68 x 2.25 m
Capacity: 32 cbm
20' Flat rack container
Length: 5.97 m
Length (inner): 5.70 m
Width: 2.36 m
Height: 2.24 m
Max payload: 27.15 t
20' Reefer container
Length: 5.45 m
Width: 2.29 m
Height: 2.25 m
Door width: 2.29 m
Door height: 2.24 m
Max payload: 27.49 t
Capacity: 28 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 10
40' Dry container
Length: 12.03 m
Width: 2.35 m
Height: 2.39 m
Door width: 2.34 m
Door height: 2.28 m
Max payload: 28.80 t
Capacity: 67 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 25
40' Dry high-cube container
Length: 12.03 m
Width: 2.35 m
Height: 2.70 m
Door width: 2.34 m
Door height: 2.58 m
Max payload: 28.62 t
Capacity: 76 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 25
40' Reefer high-cube container
Length: 11.58 m
Width: 2.29 m
Height: 2.50 m
Door width: 2.29 m
Door height: 2.50 m
Max payload: 28.35 t
Capacity: 67 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 23
40' Open top container
Length: 12.03 m
Width: 2.34 m
Height: 2.35 m
Door width: 2.29 m
Door height: 2.25 m
Max payload: 26.60 t
Roof opening: 11.81 x 2.22 m
Capacity: 64 cbm
40' Flat rack container
Length: 12.06 m
Length (inner): 11.66 m
Width: 2.37 m
Height: 2.28 m
Max payload: 39.30 t
45' Dry high-cube container
Length: 13.56 m
Width: 2.35 m
Height: 2.70 m
Door width: 2.34 m
Door height: 2.58 m
Max payload: 27.60 t
Capacity: 85 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 27