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What is an open top shipping container?An open top shipping container looks similar to a standard dry van shipping container except that the roof is either a waterproof tarpaulin tarp or a removable metal roof.
Most customers purchase open top containers in order to ship bulky cargo that is difficult to load in a dry van shipping container. The cargo is usually loaded into the open top container by using a crane. These containers have a greater capacity than standard dry vans because of the removable roof. These special shipping containers also have lashing rings on the inside so that you can secure cargo.
Most customers purchase used open top containers in cargo worthy condition. These used structurally sound open top containers will have original paint and shipping line markings. For an additional charge we can provide a new tarpaulin tarp if required.
Open top shipping containers have double doors on one end with a removable door header to allow easier loading. Available sizes include 20’ Open Top, 40’ Open Top, 20’ High Cube Open Top, 40’ High Cube Open Top, 20’ Open Top Hard Top, 40’ Open Top Hard Top.
It can be a challenge to picture exactly how big a container can be. Here are a few everyday guidelines to help you. Keep in mind that you can store taller objects in an open top container because of the soft top.
How much space will it take up outside?
20 Ft
Slightly bigger than a large single parking bay
40 Ft
Slightly bigger than two large single parking bays head to toe
How high is it externally?
20 Ft
About half a foot shorter than standard ceiling height (9ft)
40 Ft
About half a foot shorter than standard ceiling height (9ft)
How high is the inside?
20 Ft
About a foot and a couple of inches lower than standard ceiling height. (9ft)
40 Ft
About a foot and a couple of inches lower than standard ceiling height (9ft)
What can I fit through the door?
20 Ft
You will fit a standard queen-sized mattress carried flat through the door. There will be about a foot on either side.
40 Ft
You will fit a standard queen-sized mattress carried flat through the door. There will b about a foot on either side.
What can I fit inside?
20 Ft
One average-sized car or SUV
40 Ft
Two average-sized cars or SUVs parked head to toe
Here are the approximate dimensions of the most open top shipping container sizes. Exact sizes and dimensions will vary depending on the container make and age.
20 Ft
40 Ft
External Dimension
20 Ft
20’ long
8’ wide
8’6” high
40 Ft
40’ long
8’ wide
8’6” high
Internal Dimension
20 Ft
19’ 3” long
7’ 8” wide
7’ 9” high
40 Ft
39’ 5” long
7’ 8” wide
7’ 9” high
How wide is the door?
20 Ft
7’ 8” wide
7’ 5” high
40 Ft
7’ 8” wide
7’ 5” high
What is the internal floor space?
20 Ft
147 sq.ft.
40 Ft
302 sq.ft.
What is the volume? (Cubic Feet)
20 Ft
1,144 cu.ft
40 Ft
2,343 cu.ft.
What does it weigh empty? (Tare)
20 Ft
4,000 - 5,000 lbs
40 Ft
8,000 lbs
Open top shipping containers are ideal for transporting bulky cargo such as timber, machinery, and heavy-duty equipment.
To see inside an open top shipping container, watch the video below by Phoenix International.
Affordable pricing options based on your type, size and condition
Wait for your delivery! Delivery takes 3-7 days after checkout.
On-Site Storage Solutions is the leader of storage rentals whether you need Dry Van Containers and Refrigerated Containers. With over 60 locations around America and Canada, we can get your container anytime or anywhere! Call us today at (888) 977-9085 to know the rental terms near you.
On-Site Storage Solutions has partnered with TimePayment to offer affordable lease-to-purchase options for qualified applicants (Minimum 550 FICA). If you need a shipping container for your business or personal use this option allows you to purchase your shipping container over time. Payments are usually less than the cost to rent an off-site storage unit with the added benefits of owning the container at the end of the term and having the storage on-site for easy access.
