Choose a container from the packed cargo and loading plan, not from cubic metres alone. The right option must accommodate carton or pallet dimensions, safe stacking, total weight and the requirements of the entire route to your US receiving address.
What do the three names mean?
20GP usually describes a 20-foot general-purpose dry container, 40GP a 40-foot standard dry container, and 40HQ or 40HC a 40-foot high-cube dry container. The high-cube version offers additional height, which can help with bulky cargo if the goods can be safely stacked.
| Container | Typical internal volume | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| 20GP | 33.2 m³ | Whether weight becomes the constraint before space |
| 40GP | 67.7 m³ | Carton or pallet layout and usable loading height |
| 40HQ / 40HC | 76.4 m³ | Whether the extra height is usable for your cargo |
These illustrative volumes are from Triton’s typical dry-container specifications, checked 14 October 2026. Individual units vary. Nominal internal volume is not a promise that an equal volume of packaged goods will fit.
Why total CBM is only a starting point
A loading plan must allow for the shape of each package, gaps between cartons, pallets, protection and securing materials. Non-stackable goods can leave unused space above them. Door clearance can be more restrictive than the interior height. Ask the loading team to verify the largest package against the actual equipment.
Check weight independently
More container volume does not automatically mean more permitted cargo weight. Confirm the actual container payload and the applicable road, chassis and route restrictions with the forwarder. Include the weight of pallets and packing materials. Dense goods may require a different plan even when their dimensions fit comfortably.
Compare the full delivered cost
Request a comparison using the same pickup point, cargo-ready date and US delivery ZIP code. Include the loading method, destination handling and unloading requirements. A larger container is not automatically cheaper per order once inventory timing and receiving arrangements are considered.
Send this information for a loading review
- Carton dimensions and quantity for each size.
- Gross weight per carton and total shipment weight.
- Pallet dimensions, loaded height and number of pallets, if used.
- Stacking limits and fragile or oversized items.
- Pickup location, cargo-ready date and US receiving address.
Do I need to choose the container myself?
No. Send the packing list and ask for suitable options. If the order is still being finalized, request a provisional comparison and confirm the final loading plan before booking.
Read our USA FCL DDP quotation checklist, explore DDP shipping from China, or send your packing list details to LHD.
LHD international Logistics