Knowing the shipping container dimensions before buying is very important to match your needs, especially if you are going to buy a 24 foot shipping container whose dimensions are different from the regular ones.
A 24 foot shipping container is a non-standard but practical size that bridges the gap between the common 20-foot and 40-foot containers.
It offers extra storage or workspace without taking up as much room as a 40-footer, making it ideal for constrained sites or specialized conversions.
They are typically custom-fabricated by modifying longer units, like cutting down a 40 foot container. To acknowledge its dimension, features, and function, read this article thoroughly!
24 foot Shipping Container Dimension & Capacity
Tradecorp’s 24 foot shipping container dimensions and capacity are:
- Dimensions: L 24 foot x W 8 foot x H 8.6 foot
- Interior Space: ~160–170 sq. ft
- Tare Weight: 6,170 – 7,050 lbs
- Max Gross Weight: 52,910 – 67,200 lbs
- Max Payload: 46,300 – 59,500 lbs
Definitions
- Tare Weight: Weight of the empty container.
- Max Gross Weight: Maximum total weight of the container plus its cargo.
- Max Payload: The maximum cargo weight the container can safely carry (Gross Weight – Tare Weight).
24 foot Shipping Container Features

Just like any standard container, a 24 foot shipping container is made from corten scrap, a low-emitting source of the metal that can be turned back repeatedly into new steel, retaining its original properties.
Despite its name and apparent characteristics, scrap steel is considered strong, as it retains the same strength as new steel when recycled.
The container has a marine-grade flooring (typically plywood over steel crossmembers) and is designed to handle heavy loads, stacking, and tough environments.
When you seal the door properly, this container can also be weatherproof and wind-resistant.
For security, it comes with lockable double doors at one end. However, you can also add a lockbox for additional protection against tampering.
Advantages of Using a 24 foot Container
The 24 foot containers are special containers made for specific purposes. This unit offers several benefits, including:
Compact & Spacious
The 24 foot container offers 20% more room than a 20 foot without the bulk of a 40 foot, yet it is compact, making it easier to place on tight job sites, backyards, or urban lots.
Flexible Application
This container size is for custom builds, offices, shops, storage, workshops, studios, cafes, storage, and tiny homes.
Easier Transport & Setup
The 24 foot container requires less space and smaller equipment to move. Therefore, it can be delivered using smaller trucks and placed with smaller cranes or forklifts.
This will reduce logistical challenges on remote or restricted sites. It is great for businesses that move often, like construction, events, fairs, etc.
Cost-Effective
It requires lower purchase and delivery costs compared to a 40 foot unit. However, when buying this container, you will have more storage or working space than a 20 foot container for a modest price increase.
The Uses of a 24 foot Container

The 24 foot containers offer different functions in the industrial sector. They are:
Storage Unit
The 24 foot container has steel construction that can resist break-ins and weather. Therefore, it is great for tools, equipment, seasonal goods, or business inventory.
A storage unit made from a 24 foot shipping container offers a smart, secure, and compact solution for a wide variety of storage needs.
It is ideal for both personal and commercial use, especially where space is limited but more room than a 20 foot container is needed.
Mobile Office
The 24 foot shipping container offers a compact, secure, and efficient mobile office that is ideal for job sites, remote locations, or temporary office needs.
It provides a clean, climate-controlled, and functional work environment in a portable steel shell.
It will make just enough space for essential office functions while remaining easy to transport and set up.
To transform the container into a comfortable mobile office space, you can add doors, windows, electrical wiring, lighting, HVAC, insulation, wall panels, desks, shelving, or restrooms.
Workshop or Studio
The 24 foot container workshop is ideal for hobbyists, mechanics, or artists needing secure, weather-resistant space. It has enough room for workbenches, tools, and storage, while still fitting on most job sites or private properties.
The heavy-duty steel construction of this container will protect your tools and materials. For extra security, you can equip it with lockboxes, reinforced doors, and vents to increase security and durability.
Pop-Up Retail or Café
The 24 foot container is customizable as a compact food stall, shop, or market booth. The space of this unit is enough for display, prep, or seating, yet still portable and manageable on tight sites.
Therefore, with this container, you can create a service counter, a small kitchen, display racks, and a limited seating or waiting area.
It can be moved using a standard tilt-bed truck or trailer, great for temporary events, seasonal locations, or urban areas with limited space.
This container cafe is ideal for startups, market testing, or mobile business models.
Moreover, a pop-up container cafe often falls under temporary structures, making zoning and permits easier.
Tiny Home/ADU Base
A 24 foot container can be converted into a small living space or guest house, especially if you’re aiming for compact living, affordability, and a fast build.
It provides around 160 to 180 square feet of interior space. It is big enough for a bedroom-living combo, a kitchenette, and a compact bathroom.
In many states, it is easier to permit a smaller ADU due to size thresholds. It can qualify as a temporary or mobile unit in some jurisdictions.
The container structure is already solid, your focus only needs to go into insulation, interior finishing, and systems. With quick build time, your projects can be completed in a few weeks to a few months.
Conclusion
The 24 foot shipping container is a practical and reliable storage solution for those who need more space than a 20 foot unit but want to avoid the bulk of a 40 foot. It offers the durability of Corten steel construction, making it ideal for job sites, small businesses, or residential use.
Tradecorp is one of the reliable and trusted shipping container providers in the U.S. We sell and rent various choices of containers, such as 20-foot dry containers, reefer containers, flat racks, half-height containers, to modular buildings. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!