--- title: "20ft Open Top Containers" description: "Container Projects Ltd. UK Container Sales, New and Used Shipping Containers for sale and hire; 20ft and 40ft GP from Cheap storage to Quality new build containers" url: "https://container-projects.com/container-dimensions/standard/20ft-open-top" date: "2026-04-30T16:37:06+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- ![20ft open top Container](https://container-projects.com/images/pics/special/co-pro-special110.webp) # 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](https://container-projects.com/services/container-sales) options. If you need temporary equipment for a specific project, our [container hire](https://container-projects.com/services/container-hire) service offers flexible terms nationwide. To begin your procurement process, request a [container quote](https://container-projects.com/get-a-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](https://container-projects.com/container-types/iso/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. | Measurement Type | Metric Specification | Imperial Specification | |---|---|---| | External Length | 6,058 mm | 20' | | External Width | 2,438 mm | 8' | | External Height | 2,591 mm | 8' 6" | | Internal Length | 5,895 mm | 19' 4 1/8" | | Internal Width | 2,350 mm | 7' 8 1/2" | | Internal Height | 2,340 mm | 7' 8 1/8" | | Tare Weight | 2,240 kg to 2,450 kg | 4,938 lbs to 5,402 lbs | | Max Payload | 28,130 kg to 30,050 kg | 62,020 lbs to 66,248 lbs | A standard 20ft unit typically accommodates 11 Euro pallets. For cargo exceeding side widths, consider our [specialised units](https://container-projects.com/container-dimensions/standard/20ft-open-top-hard-top-flat-racks) 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](https://container-projects.com/container-types/iso/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. ![inside open top container](https://container-projects.com/images/pics/special/co-pro-special142.webp) ## 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](https://container-projects.com/services/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](https://container-projects.com/services/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](https://container-projects.com/services/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. #### Ready to Start Your Container Project? Get expert advice on container sales and hire today. [GET A QUOTE](https://container-projects.com/contact-us) [0208 948 5955](tel:02089485955) ## 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](https://container-projects.com/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. ## Frequently asked questions #### What is a 20ft open top used for? These units are used for cargo that must be craned in from above or is too tall for standard doors, such as large engines or stone blocks. View our [flat rack](https://container-projects.com/container-types/iso/flat-rack) options if the cargo is also too wide. #### How is the tarpaulin secured? The heavy-duty cover is fitted over removable roof bows and secured to the top rail with TIR cables. You can learn more about site security on our [faq](https://container-projects.com/faq) page. #### Do you deliver to my area? Container Projects Ltd operates a nationwide network of depots to provide delivery across the UK. 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