20ft Hard Top Shipping Containers

Container Projects coordinates the supply of heavy-duty equipment to industrial sites throughout the United Kingdom. For permanent storage or transport assets, browse our container sales inventory. If your project requires temporary units, our container hire service provides flexible terms. To receive specific figures for your site, request a container quote from our logistics team. Our 20ft hard top units are purpose-built for cargo that requires top loading. These containers maintain the structural integrity of a standard unit while allowing crane access through a removable steel roof.

Choose the right container size and type

Selecting the correct unit depends on the cargo weight and the method of loading. While a 20ft general-purpose container is suitable for standard goods, industrial machinery often exceeds door heights or requires overhead placement.

20ft Hard Top specifications

The 20ft hard top container features a removable steel roof rather than a tarpaulin. This design provides the security of a solid steel box with the versatility of an open top. Most units also include a removable header bar above the rear doors to facilitate easier entry for tall items. A technical comparison shows these units are original factory builds, ensuring high rigidity compared to conversions.

• Internal Length: 5,886mm
• Internal Width: 2,342mm
• Internal Height: 2,313mm
• Maximum Gross Weight: 30,480kg

Tare is the weight of an empty container, which for these units is approximately 2,700kg. Payload is the maximum weight of cargo the unit can carry, typically reaching 27,780kg depending on the manufacturer. For items that exceed side widths and heights, you may view flat rack options with similar 20ft footprints.

Hire or buy

Container Projects Ltd assists businesses in choosing between ownership and rental based on project lifespan. Buying is preferred for long-term site use or when the unit will undergo structural modification. Hiring is the cost-effective choice for seasonal projects or one-way international logistics. For customers who no longer require their units, we offer a container buy-back scheme. Our container haulage service manages the transport and collection of both hired and purchased equipment across the UK network.

Condition grades and what they mean

The condition grade dictates the suitability of the 20ft hard top for specific tasks.

• One-trip: A one-trip unit is a container manufactured in Asia and used once to transport cargo to the UK. These arrive in near-new condition and are ideal for retail or office sites.
• Wind and watertight: Wind and watertight is a grade that ensures the container is weatherproof and protects its contents from environmental ingress.
• Used: Used units are ex shipping line stock, typically 10 to 15 years old, showing surface rust but remaining structurally sound.
• IICL: IICL refers to a high repair standard set by the International Institute of Container Lessors, suitable for strict transport requirements.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Successful placement by Container Projects Ltd requires careful site checks for hiab delivery vehicles. Hiab trucks use a hydraulic crane to lift the unit and place it on the ground.

• Access Width: A minimum width of 10ft is required for the vehicle to enter the site.
• Vertical Clearance: Ensure at least 15ft of height from overhead cables or trees.
• Ground Surface: Units must sit on firm level ground, such as concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel, to prevent frame twisting.
• Placement: Level ground ensures the heavy steel doors and the removable roof align correctly for daily operation.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Hard top containers offer superior security for valuable industrial cargo. Unlike units with tarpaulin covers, the steel roof locks into place, making it difficult to breach. We recommend fitting a lockbox to used units to protect the padlock from bolt cutters. To manage internal moisture, users can apply condensation control coatings or use moisture traps. Aftercare involves regularly greasing door hinges and inspecting roof seals to maintain wind- and watertight status. For further support, contact us to speak with a specialist.

Export use and compliance

Units intended for international shipping must meet strict safety standards. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify structural fitness. Container Projects ensures all 20ft hard tops sold for export carry a valid plate. Exporters must verify the plate expiry date before booking sea or rail freight to avoid port delays.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Consult our team to determine the required payload for your machinery.
2. Verify site access for hiab delivery and check for overhead hazards.
3. Select the condition grade and confirm the delivery postcode for a final quote.
4. Prepare a level surface on firm ground for placement.
5. A professional operator delivers and precisely places the 20ft hard top.