Open Side Shipping Containers

Container Projects manages the supply and logistics of specialised containers for industrial and commercial users. If you need to buy containers for permanent site use or hire containers for a temporary project, we maintain a fleet at regional depots. To begin the procurement process, you can get a quote through our digital enquiry system. We provide delivery solutions for both new and used equipment throughout the United Kingdom.

Open side containers feature standard end doors plus bi-folding side doors that open the entire length of the unit. We supply many of these units as one-trip stock. A one-trip unit is a new container that has made a single journey from the manufacturer to the UK. For international transport, each unit carries a CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify the unit is structurally sound.

Choose the right container size and type

The primary advantage of a side-access unit is the ability to load long or wide items that cannot fit through standard 2.34m end doors. Container Projects stocks standard and high cube variants to suit different volume needs.

20ft containers

The 20ft open side unit is the most common model for site storage. It provides a clear side opening of approximately 5.82m. This allows for the easy placement of extra-wide machinery or the rapid loading of pallets via forklift. The internal height is approximately 2.39m in a standard unit.

40ft containers

For large-scale requirements, 40ft open side units provide double the floor area. These are often supplied as high cube units to provide 9ft 6in of external height. They are ideal for housing large generators or as the structural base for modular retail units.

Specialised and access units

If your project involves pedestrians or double-ended access, we also supply tunnel containers. These complement the open side fleet for complex site layouts where traffic flow is a priority.

Hire or buy

Container Projects offers flexible commercial options. Buying is a practical choice for long-term site assets or modified workshop projects. Hire is a cost-effective solution for short-term events, seasonal stock overflow, or construction site storage. We provide technical specifications for both routes to ensure the unit matches your payload requirements. A payload is the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry.

Condition grades and what they mean

We grade all units to help you select equipment fit for purpose. For international trade, we recommend units that meet the IICL standard. IICL refers to a high standard of container repair and condition set by the Institute of International Container Lessors. For domestic storage, we offer used units that are wind- and watertight. A wind- and watertight unit is a condition grade that ensures the unit is sealed against weather and light. We also confirm the tare of every unit. The tare is the weight of the empty container.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Container Projects coordinates delivery using hiab crane vehicles. Site managers must confirm the following conditions before dispatch:

• Ground Surface: The unit must sit on firm, level ground. Uneven surfaces can cause the frame to twist, which may prevent the side doors from locking correctly.
• Access Width: Delivery vehicles require a minimum width of 10ft. More space is needed for the crane outriggers during offloading.
• Turning Space: A vehicle delivering a 40ft unit requires approximately 100ft of straight approach.
• Side Clearance: Since these units load from the side, ensure there is enough room for a forklift to manoeuvre next to the unit once placed.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Security is critical for open side units because they have multiple locking points. Container Projects fits lock boxes to both the end doors and the side doors to protect padlocks. To manage condensation, we recommend Grafo-therm anti-condensation coatings or moisture traps, especially if the unit houses electronics or timber. Aftercare involves greasing door hinges and checking the rubber seals periodically to maintain a weather-tight environment.

Export use and compliance

If you intend to ship an open side container internationally, it must maintain a valid CSC plate status. Container Projects ensures all export-grade units are structurally certified. Because side doors reduce the overall rigidity of the side wall, these units are often built with heavier steel frames. We provide the necessary documentation for maritime shipping lines and port authorities at the point of sale.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Consultation: Contact our team to discuss your cargo and container dimensions needs.
2. Stock Selection: We identify a suitable unit from our closest UK depot to your site.
3. Logistics: We confirm site access and provide a delivery date, typically within 5 to 10 working days.
4. Transport: A hiab vehicle delivers the unit and positions it on your prepared site.
5. Testing: The driver confirms the unit is level and tests the operation of the bi-folding side doors.