When to Choose an Open Top Container

An open top container is a shipping container without a fixed steel roof. In its place sits a removable tarpaulin supported by a frame of roof bows, which means the container can be loaded from above by crane rather than only through the doors. For certain types of cargo, that single difference changes what is possible.

This guide explains how open top containers work, when they are the right choice, and why our 40ft units are worth a closer look at the moment.

What Is an Open Top Container?

An open top container has the same steel floor, walls and end frame as a standard container, but the solid roof is replaced by removable roof bows and a weatherproof tarpaulin. Once the tarpaulin and bows are taken off, the whole top of the container is open, allowing goods to be lowered in from above.

Many open tops also have a swing out or removable door header, the horizontal steel beam above the doors, so that tall items can be slid in through the doors as well. When the tarpaulin is secured, the container remains weather resistant and can be stacked and shipped like any other unit.

When to Choose an Open Top Container

An open top comes into its own whenever loading through the doors is impractical. The main reasons to choose one include:

• Over height cargo: items that are taller than a standard door opening can be loaded from above, and where needed can sit slightly proud of the top with the tarpaulin adjusted around them.
• Loading by crane or grab: heavy machinery, industrial equipment and awkward one piece loads can be lifted straight down into the container rather than manhandled through the doors.
• Bulk and loose materials: open tops suit materials that are tipped or grabbed in from above.
• Project and abnormal loads: anything long, tall or unusually shaped that simply will not go through a standard door opening.

If your cargo fits comfortably through the doors of a standard container, you probably do not need an open top. Where it does not, an open top is often the most practical answer.

How Open Tops Compare with Standard Containers

The footprint, floor and wall strength of an open top match a standard container, so you keep the same secure steel structure and stacking ability. What you gain is top access. The only real trade off is the roof: a tarpaulin is not as instantly weatherproof as a fixed steel roof, so it needs to be fitted correctly to keep the contents dry. For most users that is a small consideration next to the loading flexibility they get in return.

Strong Availability on 40ft Open Tops

While 20ft open tops are rare across the market at the moment, we hold excellent stock of 40ft open top containers. We currently hold stock of these units, all 2023 built, excellent cosmetic condition, and they carry a valid CSC plate that keeps them in plate for shipping until March 2028. That means they are ready to work both as storage and for onward transport. Availability at this level does not come along often, so if a 40ft open top suits your project it is well worth enquiring while stock is strong.

Please note that current stock figures and plate dates are correct at the time of writing and can change, so contact us for the latest availability.

Buying an Open Top from Container Sales (UK) Ltd

We supply open top containers throughout North East England and Scotland, as well as the rest of the UK. To check current availability on 40ft open tops, get in touch with our team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an open top container?

An open top container is a shipping container with no fixed steel roof. Instead it has removable roof bows and a weatherproof tarpaulin, so cargo can be loaded from above by crane. With the tarpaulin secured, it stays weather resistant and can be stacked and shipped like a standard container.

When should you use an open top container?

Choose an open top when cargo is too tall for a standard door opening, needs to be loaded by crane or grab, or is an awkward one piece or project load. If goods fit easily through standard doors, an open top is not usually necessary.

What sizes do open top containers come in?

Open top containers are made in 20ft and 40ft lengths. At present 20ft units are rare across the market, while 40ft open tops are more readily available. Both share the same footprint as standard containers of the equivalent length.

Are open top containers weatherproof?

Yes. When the tarpaulin and roof bows are fitted correctly the container is weather resistant. The tarpaulin is not as instantly weatherproof as a fixed steel roof, so it should be secured properly to keep the contents dry.

Can you ship goods in an open top container?

Yes. Provided the container holds a valid CSC plate, an open top can be used for international shipping as well as storage. Our 40ft open top stock is CSC plated and ready for onward transport.