20ft Open Top Containers Felixstowe

How a 20ft open top container works

An open top container normally uses removable roof bows beneath a tarpaulin cover rather than a conventional corrugated steel roof. On relevant designs, the header above the cargo doors can also be removable or swingable, giving additional clearance when loading awkward items through the end.

The roof bows and cover need to be fitted and secured correctly for the intended use. They are part of the container arrangement rather than packaging to be discarded once loading is complete.

Open top containers retain their side walls, which distinguishes them from flat racks. This can be useful where overhead loading is required but the cargo still benefits from having a container structure around its sides.

If the goods can pass easily through normal cargo doors, compare the open top with a 20ft standard shipping container. A conventional enclosed unit may be the simpler option where top access adds no practical benefit.

20ft open top container dimensions

A published 20ft open top specification gives external dimensions of 6,058mm long, 2,438mm wide and 2,591mm high. Internal dimensions are approximately 5,898mm long, 2,352mm wide and 2,393mm high to the tarpaulin. The door opening is approximately 2,340mm wide by 2,280mm high to the header.

Specifications vary between manufacturers, ages and designs. Another published drawing gives a roof area based on a container with removable roof bows and shows a height of about 2,350mm to the lowest point of the bows. Treat all dimensions as planning figures and confirm the actual unit when the load is close to any limit.

The roof opening can be smaller than the external container footprint because the top rails, end structure and roof bows occupy space. Likewise, the end-door opening is smaller than the internal cross-section. Measure the complete load, including lifting attachments or packaging that will remain in place during loading.

When an open top makes sense

The strongest reason to choose an open top is the loading method. If a crane or other suitable lifting equipment needs to lower the cargo vertically into the container, removing the roof cover and bows provides access that a standard container cannot offer.

It can also help with items that are awkward to turn or position through the end doors. Machinery is a common example because the lifting operation can place the item directly onto the floor instead of requiring it to be manoeuvred through the doorway.

Before choosing, establish:

• the overall length, width, height and weight of the load;
• whether it will be loaded through the roof or the end doors;
• whether the door header needs to move or be removed;
• how lifting equipment will approach and control the load;
• how the cargo will be restrained once positioned; and
• whether any part of the load will project above the normal container height.

A load that projects above the top rails creates different transport considerations from one that sits fully within the container. Do not assume that an open top automatically makes over-height cargo acceptable for road, port or sea transport.

Buying or hiring a 20ft open top

Buying can suit repeated handling, transport or longer-term storage where you expect to retain the container. Hire can suit a defined project where the specialist loading access is only needed temporarily.

For purchase, check whether the container is one-trip or used and ask about its current condition. Inspect or discuss the floor, side walls, doors, roof bows, tarpaulin, securing arrangements and removable or swingable header where fitted. Used open tops can show cosmetic wear from previous service, so condition should be assessed against the job rather than appearance alone.

For hire, confirm the permitted use, hire period, responsibility for damage and collection arrangements. The roof cover, bows and other removable components need to remain accounted for. Discuss any proposed drilling, welding or modification before carrying out work on a hired container.

You can compare other specialist and standard options in the container equipment range before deciding.

Cover, weather protection and storage

The removable tarpaulin provides a different roof arrangement from the fixed corrugated steel roof of a standard container. Its condition, fit and securing method therefore matter when goods need protection from rain and weather.

Check the cover for wear or damage and make sure the securing arrangement suits the container. Water can collect where a cover is poorly fitted or supported, while damaged covers can allow moisture into the load area.

If the container will mainly be used for static storage and top loading is unnecessary after installation, consider whether an open top remains the right choice. A standard enclosed container may be better suited where weather protection and routine end-door access are more important than overhead loading.

Prepare the Felixstowe site for loading and delivery

An open top often needs more working space than an ordinary storage container because you have to plan for both delivery and the later lifting operation. The position needs to work for the container, delivery vehicle and whatever equipment will load or unload it.

HIAB delivery uses a vehicle-mounted crane to lift the container into position. Crane reach, vehicle position, stabiliser space where applicable, ground conditions, and overhead obstructions can all affect placement. Do not assume that the container can be placed somewhere simply because its 20ft footprint fits.

Check gate width, turning space, slopes, overhead cables, branches and nearby structures before delivery. Tell the supplier which way the cargo doors need to face and whether another crane or lifting operation will later need access above the roof.

The container should sit on firm, reasonably level support. Uneven settlement can twist the structure and affect door operation. Drainage also matters, particularly where the container will remain in position for an extended period. The guide to proper shipping container placement covers the main site checks.

Using an open top for shipping or export

If the container will be used for international transport, confirm the condition and current CSC status of the specific unit. A used open top being suitable for static storage does not automatically mean it is suitable or currently certified for an export movement.

The load also needs to comply with the requirements applying to the shipment. Cargo extending above the normal container envelope may be classed as out-of-gauge, which can affect handling, stowage, carrier acceptance and transport arrangements.

Confirm VGM, cargo securing, documentation, customs requirements, insurance and shipping-line acceptance with the relevant freight forwarder, shipping line, customs agent, insurer or professional adviser. Incoterms 2020 and responsibility for charges or delays should also be agreed between the commercial parties rather than assumed from the container type.

Planning considerations in Felixstowe

Planning and other requirements can depend on how the container will be used, how long it will remain, the status and location of the site, neighbouring property, listed status, conservation areas, any change of use and associated works.

There is no single rule that covers every container placement. Check the current requirements with the relevant local council for the Felixstowe site and intended use before assuming permission is either required or unnecessary.

Request a 20ft open top quote

Start with the load rather than the container name. Provide its dimensions and weight, explain whether loading will be from above or through the doors and describe the lifting equipment you expect to use. Also state whether the requirement is for sale or hire and whether the container will be used for storage, handling or transport.

Site information matters too. Include the proposed position, access restrictions, overhead obstructions and any concerns about crane access. You can request a container quote once those details are available, giving a clearer basis for discussing the right equipment and delivery arrangement.