20ft Double Door Container Dimensions
A 20ft double door container, also called a tunnel container, has cargo doors at both short ends. This provides access from either side rather than requiring all loading and unloading through one doorway. It can help with stock rotation, material handling and site layouts where access at both ends is useful.
The dimensions below show the external footprint, internal space, door openings and stated weight ratings for this container type. Dimensions and ratings can vary with the manufacturer and build details, so confirm the specifications of the actual unit before finalising a site layout, racking system or loading plan.
20ft Double Door External Dimensions
The external dimensions determine the space needed for the container itself. They do not include the additional working area required to open the doors, move goods or position delivery equipment.
| Measurement | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6,058mm | 20ft 0in |
| Width | 2,438mm | 8ft 0in |
| Height | 2,591mm | 8ft 6in |
The 20ft double door container has the same listed external footprint as a standard 20ft unit. Its difference is the second set of doors, not a larger body. Measure the proposed position at both ends and allow space for the door leaves to open without hitting fences, gates, buildings or stored materials.
20ft Double Door Internal Dimensions
Internal dimensions show the usable length, width and height within the container. The door frames, seals and locking equipment affect the clear opening, so the doorway measurement is separate from the internal width and height.
| Measurement | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Internal length | 5,898mm | 19ft 4in |
| Internal width | 2,352mm | 7ft 9in |
| Internal height | 2,393mm | 7ft 10in |
| Clear door opening at each end | 2,340mm wide x 2,280mm high | 7ft 8in wide x 7ft 6in high |
Access from both ends can make it easier to load pallets, tools and materials without moving everything already stored inside. It can also support a first-in, first-out arrangement, with newer stock loaded through one end and older stock removed through the other. The container does not provide more internal storage volume than its dimensions allow, so check the size of the items and any planned racking before ordering.
Weight Ratings and Internal Capacity
The stated figures provide a starting point for assessing cargo and handling requirements. The actual container data plate should be checked before loading, lifting or arranging transport, as ratings can differ between units.
| Specification | Stated figure |
|---|---|
| Tare weight | 2,300kg |
| Maximum payload | 28,180kg |
| Maximum gross weight | 30,480kg |
| Internal cubic capacity | 33.2 cubic metres / 1,172 cubic feet |
Payload refers to the cargo carried inside the container, while gross weight includes the container and its contents. Cargo should be distributed carefully across the floor rather than concentrated in one small area. Check the weight of individual items as well as the combined load, particularly when using machinery for loading.
Why Use a 20ft Double Door Container?
The two-end layout is most useful where goods need to move through the container or where access from only one end would make loading difficult. Common uses include:
- Stock rotation: Goods can enter at one end and leave at the other, helping organise materials by arrival or use date.
- Two-sided loading: Teams can approach the container from either end when the surrounding site layout allows it.
- Long materials: Items such as timber, tubes or reinforcing materials can be easier to position when both doorways are available.
- Site separation: The two entrances can support separate loading and unloading areas within a storage or worksite arrangement.
Keep both doorways accessible if you need the full benefit of the design. If one end will remain against a wall, fence or another container, the unit may function more like a single-door container in everyday use.
Delivery and Placement Considerations
Where HIAB delivery is used, the delivery vehicle needs a suitable route and a position from which the container can be placed. Check the entrance, route, turning space, overhead obstructions and proposed drop zone before transport is arranged. Trees, cables, building eaves and low structures can affect the available space for delivery.
The container should stand on firm, reasonably level support that suits the ground conditions and the expected load. Uneven settlement can twist the frame and make the doors difficult to operate. Support beneath the corner areas also helps keep the container stable, but the appropriate arrangement depends on the site rather than one material being suitable in every situation.
Leave enough room at both short ends for the doors to open and for people or handling equipment to work safely. A container can fit within the proposed footprint but still be unsuitable if the delivery vehicle cannot reach a suitable placement position.
Use the delivery guidelines to review site preparation points before arranging delivery. For specifications relating to a particular 20ft double door container, use the container enquiry form so the dimensions and ratings can be checked against your intended use.