20ft Open Top Containers

Container Projects Ltd coordinates professional Shipping Container Sales and Hire in the UK for the industrial and commercial sectors. Businesses requiring permanent storage solutions should view our container sales options. If you need temporary equipment for a specific project, our container hire service offers flexible terms nationwide. To begin your procurement process, request a container quote from our specialists. We supply specialised units that often arrive as one-trip products: containers manufactured in Asia, used once for cargo transport to the UK, and delivered in near-new condition. These 20ft units facilitate the transport of cargo that cannot fit through standard doors.

Choose the right container size and type

Container Projects Ltd provides open-top units for heavy machinery, timber, and steel coils. These containers are built to ISO standards under the code 22U1. Tare is the weight of an empty container. Payload is the maximum weight of cargo the unit can carry. Use the dimensions below to verify site suitability and cargo compatibility.

A standard 20ft unit typically accommodates 11 Euro pallets. For cargo exceeding side widths, consider our specialised units including flat racks.

Flexible loading features

The 20ft open top provides versatile loading access for goods lowered by crane or forklift. Container Projects Ltd ensures these units include specific hardware to manage industrial breakbulk cargo.

• Removable Rear Door Header Rail: This rail swings open to provide unobstructed access above the door line for over-height items.
• Removable Roof Bows: These high-strength steel bars support the top frame and are removed during the loading process.
• Lashing Points: Multiple internal points are integrated along the floor and side rails to secure cargo during transit.

Tarpaulin versus steel roof configurations

Container Projects Ltd offers two roof types for top-loading units. The tarpaulin, or soft-top, is a heavy-duty cover that provides height flexibility for cargo extending slightly above the frame. For increased security against theft and impacts, a hard-top unit uses a removable steel roof that comes off in sections. Hard-top units offer superior structural strength for stacking and are ideal for high-value industrial equipment.

Hire or buy

Project duration usually dictates whether a business should purchase or rent. Buying is the preferred choice for permanent workshops or units intended for container conversions. Hire is more efficient for one-off logistics movements or temporary site storage. If you no longer need your container after a project, Container Projects Ltd offers a container buy-back service to assist with asset disposal.

Condition grades and definitions

Grade selection impacts the aesthetic finish and structural certification of the unit. Container Projects Ltd supplies containers in three primary grades.

• One-trip: These arrive in the best cosmetic condition with minimal wear.
• Used: Typically 10 to 15 years old, these units show signs of previous use but remain functional.
• Wind and watertight: Wind and watertight is a condition grade ensuring the unit is weatherproof and suitable for dry storage.
• IICL: IICL is a high repair standard set by the International Institute of Container Lessors.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Container Projects Ltd provides professional container haulage using hiab vehicles. These trucks use hydraulic cranes to place the unit. Successful delivery requires specific site preparations.

• Vehicle Width: The delivery truck requires a minimum of 10ft clear width.
• Vertical Clearance: Check for overhead cables or branches below 15ft.
• Ground Conditions: The unit must sit on firm, level ground such as concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel to prevent sinking.
• Level Surface: Siting on a level surface ensures the steel doors and removable roof components align correctly for operation.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Security is critical for industrial cargo. Container Projects Ltd fits lockboxes to secure padlocks from tampering. To manage internal moisture, we recommend condensation control coatings or moisture traps. Regular aftercare involves greasing door hinges and checking tarpaulin cables to maintain a weatherproof seal. More information on our standards is available on the about us page.

Export use and compliance

Units for international shipping must meet safety standards. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify structural fitness. Container Projects Ltd verifies that all export units are certified. These units use TIR-approved tarpaulins to comply with customs requirements for road and sea transport. Check the expiry date on the plate before booking freight to avoid delays at UK ports.

How Container Projects Ltd handles supply and delivery

1. Consult our experts to determine the required payload for your machinery.
2. Verify your site access dimensions and check for overhead hazards.
3. Select the condition grade and confirm the delivery postcode for a quote.
4. Prepare the ground surface to ensure it is firm and level.
5. A professional operator precision-places the 20ft unit on your site.