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40ft High Cube Container CBM Capacity

Check whether your cargo fits a 40ft high cube (40HC/40HQ) container: internal dimensions, real-world loadable CBM, and how many containers your shipment needs.

40ft High Cube (40HC) — key numbers
Internal dimensions (L × W × H)12.03 × 2.35 × 2.7 m
Theoretical capacity76.4 CBM
Realistic loadable volume~65 CBM
Door opening (W × H)2.34 × 2.58 m
Max payload26,580 kg
Will my cargo fit?
Total volume: 3.6 CBM
Container usage: 5.5%
Fits in one 40ft High Cube (40HC)

Based on ~65 CBM of realistic loadable volume, not the theoretical 76.4 CBM. For a carton-level stacking plan, use the 3D load planner below.

Plan the exact carton stack in 3D
Quick answers

How many CBM fits in a 40ft high cube container?

The internal volume is about 76.4 CBM; realistic loading usually reaches 62–68 CBM depending on carton sizes and stacking.

How is a 40HC different from a standard 40ft?

It is 30 cm (1 ft) taller: about 2.70 m internal height versus 2.39 m. Length and width are the same, adding roughly 8.7 CBM of capacity.

Does a 40HC cost much more than a 40GP?

On most trade lanes the difference is small (often $50–150), which makes the 40HC the standard choice for volume-driven cargo like furniture, toys, and e-commerce goods.

What is the payload of a 40HC?

Around 26,580 kg — slightly less than a standard 40ft because the taller steel box weighs more. Volume, not weight, is nearly always the limit in a 40HC.