20ft Open Top Containers
Buy 20ft open-top containers in Southampton. Ideal for over-height cargo with a removable tarpaulin roof for easy loading. Wind & waterproof.
20ft Open Top Container Dimensions & Specs
The 20ft open-top shipping container is a specialist unit for cargo that cannot be loaded through standard end doors. At Shipping Containers of Southampton, we supply high-specification open-top units to businesses throughout Hampshire. These containers are vital for moving over-height goods or heavy equipment that needs loading from above with a crane. Whether you need to buy shipping containers for permanent site use or seek container hire options, our hub maintains a large inventory ready for quick dispatch.
Our lead logistics assessor, David Sparrow, brings twenty years of industry experience to every project. Under his guidance, we maintain ISO 9001 certification to ensure quality management for all our clients. Every unit we provide is wind and watertight. This means the container is fully sealed to prevent rain or moisture from entering. For international freight, our containers are equipped with a valid CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety certificate regulated by the International Maritime Organisation that proves the container is structurally sound. For projects requiring the best cosmetic and structural health, we recommend our one-trip units. A one-trip container is a unit manufactured abroad that carries a single cargo load to the UK, ensuring it arrives in near-pristine condition.
Technical Specifications and Payload Data
Accurate measurements are vital when planning the transport of boilers, industrial machinery, or bulky agricultural equipment. The following table provides the technical specifications for our standard 20ft open-top units. We recommend checking these ISO container dimension guide data points against your cargo needs to ensure a perfect fit.
| Measurement Description | Metric Units | Imperial Units |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 6.096 m | 20' 0" |
| External Width | 2.438 m | 8' 0" |
| External Height | 2.591 m | 8' 6" |
| Internal Length | 5.898 m | 19' 4 1/4" |
| Internal Width | 2.352 m | 7' 8 5/8" |
| Internal Height | 2.348 m | 7' 8 1/2" |
| Roof Opening Length | 5.490 m | 18' 1/16" |
| Roof Opening Width | 2.210 m | 7' 3" |
| Tare Weight | 2,280 kg | 5,027 lb |
| Maximum Payload | 28,200 kg | 62,170 lb |
| Maximum Gross Weight | 30,480 kg | 67,197 lb |
Tare weight is the weight of the empty container. Payload is the maximum weight the container can hold safely. Our 20ft open top units feature a heavy-duty 28mm marine plywood floor. This is designed to withstand the point-loading stresses of heavy machinery and industrial components.
Over-Height Cargo and Tarpaulin Systems
The defining feature of the 20ft open top container is its removable roof system. Instead of a solid steel top, these units use a heavy-duty tarpaulin supported by removable roof bows. This allows loading items that exceed the internal height of a standard dry van. This design helps the engineering and construction sectors move boilers, large mechanical parts, and structural steel.
When you remove the tarpaulin, you can uninstall the roof bows to provide clear access for an overhead crane. This flexibility is vital for cargo that is too heavy or awkwardly shaped for a forklift to handle. Once loaded, the driver replaces the roof bows and tarpaulin to provide a wind and watertight seal for transit. For loads that also exceed the internal width, consider purchasing this flat-rack container, which lacks side walls for even greater loading flexibility.
Logistics and Delivery in the South Coast
Shipping Containers of Southampton provides expert HIAB delivery across Hampshire, including areas like Portsmouth and Basingstoke. A HIAB is a truck fitted with a hydraulic crane that allows us to lift and place the container with precision. We do not need separate on-site lifting gear. Our delivery fleet is FORS Silver-accredited, proving our commitment to road safety and environmental standards.
To ensure a successful delivery, the site ground must be level and firm. We recommend a foundation of concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel. Placing a heavy unit on soft grass or sand is unstable and can cause the container to sink or rack. Racking is when the container frame twists on uneven ground, making the doors difficult to operate. For detailed site preparation advice, see our guide on container footprint measurements.
Purchasing and Hire Options in Southampton
We offer two distinct ways to get the equipment you need. Buying a unit is often the best choice for permanent on-site storage or modification. We provide available units for permanent purchase in both new and used conditions. Open-top units offer a cost-effective solution for industrial storage while still meeting strict wind- and watertight standards.
For temporary projects, our hire services provide high-grade equipment without a full purchase. Hire is a popular choice for construction sites in Aldershot and Farnborough, where project lengths are fixed. You can hire a 20ft open top container from our hub with clear terms and rapid delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 20ft open top container for standard storage?
Yes. While built for over-height cargo, they also serve as excellent standard storage units. They are fully secure and weatherproof. However, if you do not need the overhead loading feature, buying cargo-worthy containers in a standard dry van configuration may be more cost-effective.
What is the difference between a collapsible and a fixed-end open top?
Standard open-top containers have fixed steel walls on three sides and double doors on one end. Some specialist types have a removable header bar above the doors to make loading easier. You can check standard 20ft internal measurements and door clearance on our technical specs page.
How do I ensure my cargo stays dry in an open-top container?
The tarpaulin and roof bows create a wind and watertight seal when properly installed. We inspect all our hire and sales units for seal integrity before they leave our depot. For more maintenance tips, read our guide on container refurbishment and repair.
Do I need planning permission for a container in Hampshire?
In most cases, containers are considered temporary structures and do not need planning permission. However, rules vary between local councils. We recommend checking the Southampton City Council Planning Portal for definitive guidance. You can also view our local council planning rules guide for more details.
Are these units safe for international export?
Absolutely. Every 20ft open top unit we supply for transport comes with a valid CSC plate. This confirms the unit meets safety standards for stacking and sea freight. If you need a unit for immediate export, speak to our Southampton experts to confirm the latest stock availability.