40ft Open Top Containers Felixstowe

How a 40ft open top container works

Instead of a conventional corrugated steel roof, an open top commonly uses removable roof bows beneath a tarpaulin cover. Some designs also have a removable or swingable header above the cargo doors. Removing these components can give better access when a load needs to be lowered into the container or handled through the end opening.

The open top still has side walls and cargo doors, so it differs from a flat rack, which has no conventional side walls or roof. This makes an open top useful where overhead loading is needed, but the cargo still benefits from being contained within side walls.

The roof bows and cover form part of the container arrangement. Their condition, fit and securing method need to suit the intended storage or transport use rather than being treated as disposable packaging.

40ft open top container dimensions

A published standard-height 40ft open top specification gives an external length of about 12.19m (40ft), width of 2.44m (8ft) and height of 2.59m (8ft 6in). Internal dimensions are approximately 12.02m (39ft 5in) long, 2.35m (7ft 9in) wide and 2.39m (7ft 10in) high to the tarpaulin.

Dimensions differ between manufacturers and individual container designs. Another published 40ft open top drawing gives an external length of 12,192mm and internal length of 12,040mm, which shows why nominal size should not be used as an exact loading measurement.

If machinery or another load is close to the available space, confirm the actual unit dimensions. The roof structure, top rails and door header can all reduce usable clearance compared with the external measurements.

40ft high cube open top containers

A 40ft high cube open top combines overhead loading access with additional vertical clearance. A published specification gives external dimensions of 40ft long, 8ft wide and 9ft 6in high, approximately 12.19m by 2.44m by 2.90m. Internal dimensions are listed as about 39ft 4in long, 7ft 8in wide and 8ft 9in high, approximately 11.99m by 2.34m by 2.67m.

The high cube is most useful where the extra height solves a real loading or storage problem. Compared with a standard-height open top, it gives roughly 305mm (1ft) more external height and greater internal and door clearance. That can help with taller machinery or equipment while retaining the same nominal 40ft by 8ft footprint.

Extra internal height does not remove the normal limits around roof bows, covers, transport height or out-of-gauge cargo. If any part of a load projects above the container envelope, the complete transport arrangement needs to be checked with the relevant carrier or freight forwarder.

When a 40ft open top is the right choice

The main reason to choose an open top is the loading method. If the cargo needs to be lowered vertically by crane rather than pushed or driven through end doors, removing the cover and roof bows gives access from above.

The 40ft length also makes this type relevant for longer machinery, equipment and other loads that need substantially more floor space than a 20ft unit. Before choosing one, establish:

• the full length, width, height and weight of the load;
• whether loading will take place from above or through the end doors;
• whether the door header needs to be moved or removed;
• the lifting equipment and working space required;
• how the load will be restrained; and
• whether any part of the cargo will project above the normal container height.

If top loading is unnecessary, a 40ft standard shipping container may provide a simpler enclosed arrangement. If the load also needs unrestricted side access, a flat rack may be more appropriate than an open top.

Buying or hiring a 40ft open top

Buying can suit repeated loading, longer-term storage or transport where you expect to retain the unit. Hiring can work for a defined project or temporary requirement where specialist top access is needed for a limited period.

For purchase, ask about the condition of the floor, side walls, cargo doors, roof bows, tarpaulin and door header. One-trip and used units can differ in appearance and previous service, so the condition needs to match the intended job rather than a broad grade alone.

For hire, confirm the hire period, permitted use, damage responsibility and collection arrangements. Removable components such as the roof bows and cover need to remain with the container. Discuss drilling, welding or other alterations before making any change to a hired unit.

Weather protection and the removable cover

An open top does not use the same permanent roof as a conventional dry container. Protection depends partly on the condition and fit of the tarpaulin, bows and securing arrangement.

Inspect or discuss the cover if the goods need weather protection. A damaged or poorly secured cover can allow water to reach the cargo, and a badly supported cover can encourage water to collect rather than drain away.

If the unit will mainly be used as static storage and overhead access is only needed once, consider how the roof arrangement will be managed afterwards. Where routine top access is unnecessary, a standard enclosed container may be easier to use for ongoing storage.

Using a 40ft open top for export

Open tops are associated with specialist cargo movements, but the container type alone does not confirm that a particular unit is suitable for export. Check the current CSC status, structural condition and cargo suitability of the actual container.

Over-height cargo can become out-of-gauge cargo, which may affect handling, stowage, carrier acceptance and transport arrangements. The fact that a load can physically be placed through the open roof does not mean it can travel without additional checks.

Confirm VGM, securing requirements, documentation, customs, insurance and carrier acceptance with the relevant shipping line, freight forwarder, customs agent or insurer. Incoterms 2020, tax responsibility and potential storage, detention or demurrage exposure should also be checked with the appropriate adviser for the shipment.

Prepare the Felixstowe site for delivery and loading

A 40ft container needs substantial vehicle and working space even when the final position itself is straightforward. HIAB delivery uses a vehicle-mounted crane, so the vehicle needs a suitable standing position and enough space for the lifting operation.

Check gate width, turning space, ground conditions, overhead cables, trees and structures before delivery is agreed. A high cube also adds height to the load during transport and handling, so overhead restrictions along the access route deserve particular attention.

The final position should provide firm, reasonably level support. Uneven settlement can twist the container and affect door operation. Drainage should prevent water collecting around the base, and enough space should remain around the unit for future loading, unloading and collection.

Overhead loading creates an additional site requirement. The position needs clear space above the roof and enough working room for the crane or other lifting equipment that will handle the cargo. The guide to proper shipping container placement covers the main checks before delivery.

Planning considerations in Felixstowe

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

The position can be different where a container becomes part of a permanent operation or is modified for another use. Do not assume that planning permission is always required or always unnecessary. Check the current requirements with the relevant local council for the particular Felixstowe site and proposal.

Choose between standard and high cube open top

Start with the load dimensions and loading method. A standard-height 40ft open top may be sufficient where the cargo fits within its internal and door clearances. The high cube becomes more useful where approximately 305mm (1ft) of additional external height and the resulting internal clearance solve a specific problem.

Do not move to high cube automatically for over-height cargo. If the load projects above the roof line, transport requirements still need to be checked. For some particularly large loads, a different specialist container may be more suitable.

You can compare other options in the container equipment range. When you request a container quote, include the load dimensions and weight, whether you need standard or high cube, the loading method, sale or hire requirement and details of the proposed site.