Choosing the right shipping container is one of the most important decisions when planning an interstate move. If you’re comparing a 20ft vs 40ft shipping container for moving, understanding the differences in capacity, cost, and suitability can help you avoid paying for unnecessary space or running out of room. Moving a small apartment, a large family home or commercial equipment, you will need to choose the right container size for your move to be efficient and affordable.
At Waratah Interstate Container Removals (WICR), we help Australians move with confidence through reliable interstate container removals and shipping container solutions. We provide interstate container removals, shipping container hire, new and used shipping containers for sale, and secure container storage across Australia. Our professional movers will be able to advise you on the right size container for your items, moving location, and moving needs.
In this article, we’ll explore 20ft vs 40ft shipping container for moving in detail, helping you choose the most practical and affordable option for your interstate move.
Why Container Size Matters
The right shipping container size can mean more than just getting items to fit inside. It affects your moving expenses, how you pack, how you transport and your moving experience.
If the container is too small, you may need to ship several times, or too large, and you’ll be wasteful of space. The key is to strike a balance to get the most value and safe transportation.
20ft Shipping Container Overview
One of the most common choices for interstate relocation is to use a 20ft shipping container. It has the capacity of about 35-38 m³ of storage, depending on the type of high cube or standard cube you select.
Ideal For:
- 1–3 bedroom homes
- Apartments and townhouses
- Couples and small families
- Office relocations
- Students relocating interstate
Advantages of a 20ft Container
- Lower transport costs.
- Easier delivery to residential properties.
- Ideal for most household moves.
- Less unused space.
- Available Australia-wide.
40ft Shipping Container Overview
For larger moves and commercial relocations, a 40ft shipping container offers around 70-76 cubic metres of storage space.
Ideal For:
- Large family homes.
- 4–6 bedroom properties.
- Commercial relocations.
- Warehouse moves.
- Large furniture collections.
- Industrial equipment transport.
Advantages of a 40ft Container
- Twice the storage capacity.
- Suitable for large households.
- Excellent for business relocations.
- Fewer transport trips.
- Ideal for bulky furniture and equipment.
20ft vs 40ft Shipping Container Comparison
| Feature | 20ft Container | 40ft Container |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6 metres | 12 metres |
| Storage Capacity | 35–38 cubic metres | 70–76 cubic metres |
| Best For | Small to medium homes | Large homes and businesses |
| Moving Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Delivery Access | Easier | Requires more space |
| Ideal Users | Individuals, couples, small families | Large families, commercial customers |
Should You Choose a High Cube Container?
High cube containers offer approximately 30cm of additional height compared to standard containers, providing extra storage volume without increasing the footprint.
They’re particularly useful for:
- Tall furniture.
- Stacked moving boxes.
- Commercial stock.
- Bulky household items.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing
How Many Bedrooms Are You Moving?
A smaller home generally suits a 20ft container, while larger homes usually require a 40ft container.
How Much Furniture Do You Own?
If you have large furniture, outdoor equipment, gym equipment, or multiple appliances, a larger container may be worthwhile.
Access at Your Property
Not every property has enough space for a 40ft container. Narrow driveways or restricted access may make a 20ft container the better option.
Your Budget
If you’re looking for the most economical interstate move, a properly packed 20ft container is often the most cost-effective solution.
How WICR Helps You Choose the Right Size
Choosing the wrong container can increase moving costs and create unnecessary complications. At WICR, our experienced team helps customers determine the ideal container based on:
- Property size.
- Volume of belongings.
- Moving distance.
- Delivery location.
- Storage requirements.
We’ll recommend the most practical solution so you only pay for the space you actually need.
About Waratah Interstate Container Removals (WICR)
Waratah Interstate Container Removals (WICR) offers expert interstate container removals across Australia. Whether you are a homeowner, a family, or a business looking to move, we can help you with secure self-pack shipping containers for flexibility, affordability, and complete control during your move.
Having a reliable transport service with exceptional customer service and a wide network of service throughout Australia, WICR provides the ideal service whether moving across the country or buying a container for storage.
Our Services
Interstate Container Removals
Self-pack moving services with budget-friendly rates in cities and regions throughout Australia.
Shipping Container Hire
Flexible container hire for residential, commercial, and industrial moving projects.
New & Used Shipping Containers for Sale
Quality shipping containers suitable for storage, transport, workshops, and custom conversions.
Secure Container Storage
Safe short-term and long-term storage solutions while waiting to move into your new property.
Why Choose WICR?
- Australia-wide service.
- Affordable pricing.
- Reliable road and rail transport.
- Secure, weatherproof containers.
- Experienced customer support.
- Flexible moving schedules.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between a 20ft vs 40ft shipping container for moving makes it much easier to plan a successful interstate relocation. The 20ft container is suitable for most households and for smaller relocations, while the 40ft container has the extra capacity that is needed for larger homes and commercial relocations.
If you’re unsure which container size best suits your move, the team at Waratah Interstate Container Removals (WICR) is ready to help. Give us a call today and get a free no obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 20ft shipping container big enough for a house move?
Yes. The 20ft container will accommodate a one to three bedroom home, with furniture and belongings depending on the amount.
When should I choose a 40ft shipping container?
A 40ft container is ideal for larger family homes, commercial relocations, or moves involving bulky equipment.
What’s the difference between a standard and high cube container?
High cube containers offer around 30cm extra height meaning that there may be more storage space to accommodate taller or bulkier products.
Can WICR help me choose the right container size?
Absolutely. Our experienced team will recommend the most suitable container based on your moving requirements.
Do you deliver containers Australia-wide?
Yes. WICR provides interstate container removals, container hire, storage, and container sales throughout Australia.
Contact Waratah Interstate Container Removals
📍 Location: Australia-wide Service
🌐 Visit: https://www.wicr.com.au/
📧 Email: Info@wicr.com.au
📞 Phone: 1300 561 797