HighCube

Highcube, often written as high-cube or HC, is a designation in the shipping industry for an intermodal freight container that is taller than the standard container. A high-cube container is typically 9 feet 6 inches tall (about 2.89 meters), one foot taller than the standard 8 feet 6 inches (about 2.59 meters). The extra height increases cargo capacity without changing length or width, allowing more goods to be transported per container.

High-cube containers come in common lengths of 20 and 40 feet. The HC designation is used on container codes, documentation, and rates to distinguish them from standard-height containers. They are compatible with most intermodal equipment, including chassis, cranes, and reach-stackers, and can be refrigerated (HC reefers) or used as dry cargo containers.

The primary advantage of high-cube containers is higher usable volume, which can improve freight efficiency and reduce the number of containers needed for a shipment. Potential drawbacks include slightly higher weight, greater sensitivity to overhead clearance at terminals and facilities, and higher purchase or rental costs. High-cube containers are standardized under ISO specifications for freight containers, ensuring compatibility across shipping lines, ports, and borders.

See also: ISO 668, intermodal freight transport, shipping container, refrigerated container.