Understanding shipping container sizes and prices in Canada is essential if you are planning to move cargo domestically, ship goods internationally, or coordinate container transport between ports, rail terminals, and final delivery points. While container logistics may appear straightforward, choosing the wrong container size or misjudging real costs often leads to delays, access issues, and avoidable expenses.
This guide explains shipping container sizes Canada, realistic 2026 pricing, and how containers move through Canadian logistics networks. At the same time, it helps clarify when professional container transport becomes the most efficient and predictable option.
Shipping Container Sizes in Canada Explained
Shipping containers in Canada follow international ISO standards. As a result, the same container sizes are used across Canadian ports, rail terminals, and trucking corridors, which allows for seamless intermodal movement.
20-Foot Shipping Container Sizes in Canada
The 20-foot unit remains the most commonly used option for dense or compact cargo.
Typical dimensions include a length of approximately 20 feet, a width of 8 feet, and a height of 8.6 feet. The internal volume is about 33 cubic meters, while the maximum payload reaches roughly 28,000 kilograms.
As a result, 20-foot containers are widely used across Canada for household goods, machinery, vehicles, and palletized freight.
40-Foot Shipping Container Sizes in Canada
For higher-volume shipments, the 40-foot container provides double the internal space while maintaining the same width and height as the 20-foot unit.
These containers measure approximately 40 feet in length and offer an internal volume of around 67 cubic meters, with a typical payload capacity of about 26,000 kilograms.
Consequently, 40-foot containers are commonly used for commercial freight, large household moves, and project cargo throughout Canada.
40-Foot High Cube Container Sizes in Canada
High Cube containers follow the same length and width as standard 40-foot units but include additional vertical clearance.
With a height of approximately 9.6 feet, High Cube containers are especially useful for tall equipment, stacked pallets, or oversized cargo that exceeds standard height limits.
Specialized Shipping Container Sizes Used in Canada
In addition to standard dry containers, Canadian logistics frequently relies on specialized container sizes depending on cargo requirements.
Refrigerated containers are used for temperature-sensitive goods such as food and pharmaceuticals. Meanwhile, open-top containers support cargo that cannot be loaded through standard doors. Flat rack containers, on the other hand, accommodate oversized or irregular freight.
Each of these container types directly influences both handling requirements and pricing.
Shipping Container Prices in Canada (2026)
When researching shipping container sizes and prices in Canada, it is important to distinguish between purchase prices, rental rates, and transport costs. Each category reflects a different part of the overall logistics expense.
Shipping Container Purchase Prices in Canada
In 2026, used 20-foot containers in Canada typically range between $3,000 and $4,500, while new units usually cost between $5,500 and $7,000. Used 40-foot containers commonly fall between $4,500 and $6,500, whereas new 40-foot units range from $7,500 to $10,000. High Cube containers generally cost between $8,000 and $11,000 depending on condition and availability.
Pricing varies by region, container condition, and market demand.
Shipping Container Rental Prices in Canada
Container rentals are often used for short-term storage or project-based needs.
Monthly rental rates in Canada generally range from $120 to $250 for 20-foot containers and from $180 to $350 for 40-foot containers. Delivery and pickup fees are typically billed separately.
Shipping Container Transport Prices in Canada
Transporting a container across Canada often represents the largest portion of overall cost. Pricing depends on distance, access conditions, and the combination of transport modes used.
Local drayage moves from port to warehouse commonly range between $350 and $750. Regional trucking distances of 200 to 500 kilometers typically fall between $800 and $1,800. Long-distance intermodal container transport, combining rail and truck, generally ranges from $2,000 to $4,500.
As a result, most long-haul container movements rely on a coordinated mix of port drayage, rail intermodal service, and final-mile delivery rather than a single transport method.
What Impacts Shipping Container Prices in Canada
Several factors influence shipping container prices in Canada. These include route distance, container weight, terminal congestion, fuel costs, and out-of-zone delivery locations. Seasonal demand and port conditions may also affect final pricing.
Understanding these variables helps shippers set realistic expectations and avoid unexpected surcharges.
Choosing the Right Shipping Container Size
Choosing the correct container size is not solely about volume. Weight distribution, loading methods, and delivery site conditions play an equally important role.
In many cases, a 20-foot container works best for dense cargo, while a 40-foot container is more suitable for lighter but bulkier shipments. Careful planning at this stage prevents rehandling and delivery issues later.
Common Container Shipping Mistakes in Canada
Despite careful planning, many container shipments encounter avoidable challenges. Common issues include underestimating last-mile access, overlooking ground conditions at delivery sites, and failing to account for crane or tilt requirements.
Addressing these details early helps ensure smooth container delivery.
Container Transport in Real-World Canadian Logistics
In practice, container movement across Canada typically involves a combination of port drayage, rail intermodal transport, and coordinated local delivery. Containers rarely move directly from port to destination without professional planning.
Businesses that rely on experienced container transport specialists are better positioned to manage rail terminals, congested ports, and remote delivery points efficiently. For example, companies offering nationwide container transport solutions often help simplify complex intermodal moves across provinces.
Final Thoughts
Understanding shipping container sizes and prices in Canada provides a strong foundation for planning logistics in 2026. However, once ports, rail terminals, and delivery constraints are involved, professional coordination becomes increasingly valuable.
For organizations moving containers across Canada or through Canadian ports, working with an experienced container transport provider can reduce delays, improve cost predictability, and streamline the entire process.
Contact
If you are planning container transport within Canada or through Canadian ports, professional coordination can save time and cost.
📞 +1 (365) 829-5000
📧 service@metropolitanlogistics.ca
Our team can help assess container size, routing, and transport options based on your specific needs.
