Used 20ft x 8ft Open Top Shipping Container for Sale UK | Heavy Duty Tarpaulin Included

Used 20ft Open Top Shipping Container

When managing awkward, high – cube, or top – heavy cargo, standard dry – van containers often fall short. Our used 20ft x 8ft open top shipping containers provide top – loading capabilities for industrial materials, manufacturing gear, timber, scrap metal, and heavy machinery.

By swapping a rigid steel roof for a removable, weatherproof tarpaulin system, these units allow overhead crane, gantry, or crab – hoist loading directly into the container bay.

Key Technical Specifications & Dimensions

To ensure your site or transport arrangement is fully prepared, refer to the exact internal, external, and door clearance metrics below:

Feature / Dimension Metric	Imperial Measurement	Metric Measurement
External Length	20 ft 0 in	6,058 mm
External Width	8 ft 0 in	2,438 mm
External Height	8 ft 6 in	2,591 mm
Internal Length	19 ft 4 in	5,898 mm
Internal Width	7 ft 8 in	2,352 mm
Internal Height	7 ft 8 in	2,348 mm
Door Opening Width	7 ft 8 in	2,340 mm
Door Opening Height	7 ft 5 in	2,280 mm
Top Loading Opening (Length)	18 ft 11 in	5,762 mm
Top Loading Opening (Width)	7 ft 3 in	2,230 mm
Tare Weight (Approx.)	5,200 lbs	2,360 kg
Max Payload Capacity	61,900 lbs	28,120 kg
Max Gross Weight	67,200 lbs	30,480 kg
Internal Capacity	1,152 cu. ft.	32.6 cu. m

Structural Features & Benefits

1. Crane & Top – Loading Flexibility

The open top configuration eliminates vertical loading restrictions. Freight can be lowered vertically using an overhead crane, forklift boom, or gantry system. The swinging or removable rear header bar allows tall equipment to be driven or slid straight through the rear doors without clipping the top frame.

2. Robust Corten Steel Construction

Built from high – tensile, corrosion – resistant Corten steel, these second – hand containers withstand harsh marine and weather conditions. Internal marine – grade plywood flooring (typically 28mm thick) provides a durable surface for heavy machinery, pallets, or industrial bulk.

3. Weatherproof PVC Tarpaulin & Roof Bows

Each container comes fitted with removable steel roof bows designed to support a heavy – duty, waterproof PVC tarpaulin cover. The bows prevent water pooling on top, while integrated TIR lashing cables secure the tarp around the outer frame to keep cargo dry and secure during transit or storage.

4. Rigorous Inspection & Quality Assurance

Prior to dispatch, every used open – top container undergoes a comprehensive structural inspection. We verify that:

• Structure is wind and watertight (WWT).

• Corner castings and lashing rings comply with ISO safety parameters.

• Locking bars, door seals, and hinges are fully operational.

• The tarpaulin roof cover is free of leaks or significant tears.

Popular Applications

• Heavy Machinery & Industrial Equipment: Transporting long, tall, or irregularly shaped machinery.

• Bulk Aggregates & Raw Materials: Easy loading of scrap metal, timber, gravel, or industrial waste via overhead grabs.

• Construction & Site Storage: On – site storage for tall building supplies and structural steelwork.

• Over – Height Shipping Freight: Secure transport for international cargo exceeding standard container door heights.

Delivery & On – Site Placement

We deliver nationwide across the UK using dedicated Hiab crane vehicles. Our experienced drivers can lift, offload, and position your 20ft open top container onto hardstanding surfaces, concrete pads, or site footprints.

• Minimum Site Clearance: Ensure at least 35 – 40 feet of straight – line access for the delivery lorry.

• Overhead Clearance: Check for low – hanging branches, power lines, or building overhangs before delivery.