Shipping containers continually evolve to meet logistics needs. One innovation is the side door container, designed to simplify loading and unloading of oversized cargo that cannot fit through standard doors. It features an additional set of doors.
A side door container retains the standard double doors at the end of the unit but adds a crucial feature: a set of reinforced bi-fold doors running along the entire length of the container. This design allows one full side of the unit to be fully opened, removing the restriction of loading solely through the narrow end doors.
These units are engineered to ISO standards, ensuring they are stackable and intermodal. They are constructed from high-tensile Corten steel and fitted with heavy-duty rubber seals to remain wind and watertight. While primarily designed for awkward or wide cargo, they have become a favourite for specialised container conversions due to their open-plan accessibility.
Understanding the exact measurements is vital for planning delivery and usage. Side opening containers have slightly different internal width dimensions compared to standard units due to the hinge mechanisms on the side wall.
The table below outlines the primary specifications for the 20ft and 40ft units supplied by Shipping Containers of Southampton.
| Specification | 20ft Side Door | 40ft Side Door | 40ft High Cube Side Door |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Length | 5.89 m (19.3 ft) | 12.03 m (39.5 ft) | 12.03 m (39.5 ft) |
| Internal Width | 2.34 m (7.8 ft) | 2.34 m (7.8 ft) | 2.34 m (7.8 ft) |
| Internal Height | 2.38 m (7.9 ft) | 2.38 m (7.9 ft) | 2.69 m (8.9 ft) |
| Side Door Opening Width | 5.70 m (approx) | 11.80 m (approx) | 11.80 m (approx) |
| Tare Weight | 2,700 kg | 4,700 kg | 5,200 kg |
| Max Payload | 27,780 kg | 27,300 kg | 28,600 kg |
| Cubic Capacity | 33.0 m³ | 65.3 m³ | 76.3 m³ |
Note: Weights can vary slightly by manufacturer. For critical transport loads, always refer to the specific unit's CSC plate and our container weight verification guide.
Full side access allows significantly tighter packing densities, as forklifts can place pallets directly into position without having to drive inside the container.
For businesses in Southampton and the wider UK logistics sector, side door units offer specific operational advantages:
Beyond logistics, side-opening containers are the number one choice for conversion projects. Because the entire side wall opens, they require less structural modification to create open-plan spaces. Common uses include:
If you are planning a conversion, ensure the unit is placed on solid ground. Review our shipping container foundations guide to prevent door misalignment.
Yes. They are built with heavy-duty rubber gaskets on all doors. To maintain this protection over time, we recommend regular checks as detailed in our container maintenance and repair guide.
No. Side-opening containers are reinforced at the floor and roof levels to compensate for the side wall removal. They meet ISO standards for structural safety, though stacking limits may differ slightly from standard boxes.
Yes, provided the unit has a valid CSC plate. However, they are specialised equipment (often called "special dry freight"). For one-way transport options, see our one-way shipping containers page.
A side-door container features rigid steel doors for high security. A curtain side container uses a reinforced tarpaulin (similar to a lorry) which is easier to open but offers less protection against theft.
They are rarer than standard height 20ft units, but can be sourced. 40ft units are commonly available as High Cubes. For a better understanding of volume differences, visit our TEU guide.
Whether you need easier pallet access or a base for a conversion project, Shipping Containers of Southampton can help. We supply new and used side door units across the South Coast.
Request a Side Door Container QuoteOr call our team directly on: 0330 0130 636
At Shipping Containers of Southampton, we serve locations across the South of England. Our hiab delivery coverage includes Reading, Portsmouth, Swindon, Basingstoke, Guildford, Maidenhead, Camberley, Eastbourne, Eastleigh, Bracknell, Bournemouth, Brighton, Slough, Crawley, Farnborough, Weybridge, Aldershot, and Chichester. Whether you need a new or used container, we offer prompt delivery and competitive pricing.