20ft Open Top Container: Uses, Limits, and Buying Tips

A 20ft open top container is a specialized shipping container with a removable roof or a soft tarp top, designed for cargo that is too tall or awkward to load through standard doors. If you are planning a project that involves oversized equipment, tall machinery, or materials that need top-down loading, an open top container can be a practical option. This guide explains how they work, where they fit, and what to check before you commit.

What a 20ft Open Top Container Is and How It Works

A standard 20ft shipping container has double doors at one end and a fixed roof. A 20ft open top container keeps the same footprint and corner castings but replaces the fixed roof with an open top that is covered by a removable tarpaulin. The tarp is secured with lashing rings, ropes, or a locking bar system, depending on the design.

Because the top is open, you can load cargo from above using a crane, forklift, or other lifting equipment. This is useful when the item is taller than the door opening or cannot be tilted or maneuvered through the doors. Once loaded, the tarp is replaced and secured for transport or storage.

Open top containers are available in standard height and high cube versions. The exact internal dimensions, door opening, and top opening vary by manufacturer and model. Always check the individual listing and the container's CSC plate for verified specifications rather than relying on general figures.

Key Components

• Corner castings: Standard ISO fittings for lifting and securing.
• Doors: Usually double doors at one end, same as a standard container.
• Removable roof: Either a full steel roof that can be removed or, more commonly, a tarpaulin cover.
• Tarp securing system: Lashing rings, hooks, or a locking bar along the top rails.
• Floor: Typically marine-grade plywood or steel, depending on the unit.

Common Uses for 20ft Open Top Containers

Open top containers are chosen when top loading saves time, reduces risk, or is the only practical way to load an item. Here are common applications:

• Tall machinery and equipment: Generators, compressors, and industrial machines that exceed the door height.
• Construction materials: Long beams, pipes, or prefabricated components that are easier to lower in from above.
• Oversized vehicles: Small tractors, ATVs, or custom vehicles that cannot be driven through the doors.
• Artwork and sculptures: Large pieces that need careful top loading and secure covering.
• Project cargo: One-off shipments where the loading method matters more than standardizing on a dry container.
• Temporary storage: When you need weather protection but also want the option to load from the top.

Open top containers are not ideal for every situation. If your cargo fits through standard doors and does not require top loading, a standard dry container is usually simpler and more cost-effective. If you need side access, a side-opening container may be a better fit. The right choice depends on your cargo, your loading equipment, and your site.

Loading and Handling Considerations

Loading an open top container requires planning. The tarp is not a structural roof, so you cannot stack cargo on top of it. The container itself is designed to be lifted by the corner castings, and the tarp must be properly secured before transport.

Before Loading

• Confirm the internal height and top opening dimensions from the listing or CSC plate.
• Check that your lifting equipment can safely reach over the container sides.
• Verify the weight of your cargo and how it will be distributed on the floor.
• Inspect the tarp and securing hardware for damage or wear.
• Plan how you will secure the cargo inside to prevent shifting.

During Loading

• Use spreader bars or lifting beams as needed to avoid damaging the container walls.
• Lower cargo slowly and guide it into place.
• Distribute weight evenly and avoid concentrating loads on small areas unless the floor is rated for it.
• Once loaded, replace the tarp and secure all lashing points.

After Loading

• Double-check that the tarp is tight and will not flap during transport.
• Confirm doors are closed and locked.
• If the container will be moved by truck or rail, verify that the carrier accepts open top containers and that the tarp meets their requirements.

If you are unsure about any of these steps, ask the Newport team for guidance. They can help you understand what the listing includes and what you need to prepare on your end.

Buying Tips and What to Verify

Buying a 20ft open top container is similar to buying a standard container, but there are extra details to check because of the tarp and top opening.

Condition and Grade

Open top containers are often sold in used condition. The grade (such as wind and water tight, cargo worthy, or as-is) affects price and suitability. Ask for photos of the tarp, the top rails, the doors, and the floor. Look for rust, bent rails, or a tarp that is torn or stiff.

Tarp and Securing System

A replacement tarp can be a significant cost if it is missing or damaged. Confirm whether the tarp is included, whether it is the original or a replacement, and how it is secured. Some open top containers use a simple rope system, while others have a more robust locking bar. The listing should describe what is included.

Dimensions and Specifications

Do not assume that all 20ft open top containers have the same internal height. Standard and high cube versions exist, and the top opening can vary. Check the individual listing for nominal length, width, and height, and look at the CSC plate for verified data. If you need exact clearances for your cargo, measure your item and compare it to the listed dimensions.

Delivery and Site Access

Open top containers are often delivered on a tilt-bed or flatbed truck. The delivery truck needs safe access to your site, and you need a plan for unloading. If you do not have a crane or forklift on site, discuss options with the Newport team before purchase. They can explain what delivery requires and whether a different container type might be easier to place.

Price and Availability

Prices for used containers vary based on condition, location, and market conditions. Do not rely on a single online price. Request a quote from Newport Shipping Containers LLC and confirm current availability, pricing, and delivery details for your ZIP code.

Legal and Permit Questions

Some jurisdictions treat shipping containers as structures and may require permits for certain uses. Rules vary widely by location. Check with your local planning or building department before you buy if you plan to use the container for storage, a workspace, or any permanent placement. Newport can share general information, but only your local authority can confirm what is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a 20ft open top container for storage?

Yes, but the tarp must be in good condition and properly secured to keep water out. Open top containers are more vulnerable to water intrusion than standard dry containers if the tarp is damaged or poorly fitted. Inspect the tarp regularly and replace it if needed.

How is an open top container loaded?

It is loaded from above using a crane, forklift, or other lifting equipment. The tarp is removed or rolled back, cargo is lowered in, and then the tarp is replaced and secured. You need access to lifting equipment and a safe way to guide the load.

Is a 20ft open top container the same as a high cube?

Not necessarily. Open top containers come in both standard height and high cube versions. The open top feature refers to the roof, while high cube refers to the external height. Check the specific listing for the height and other dimensions.

What should I check before buying a used open top container?

Inspect the tarp, the top rails, the doors, the floor, and the corner castings. Ask for photos and confirm what is included in the sale. Verify the dimensions and weight limits from the listing or CSC plate. If you are unsure, ask the Newport team for help interpreting the details.

Do I need a permit for an open top container?

Permit requirements depend on your local jurisdiction and how you plan to use the container. Some areas require permits for permanent placement or for use as a structure. Contact your local planning or building department for definitive guidance.

Next Steps

If you are considering a 20ft open top container, start by defining your cargo and loading needs. Then browse current listings at our shop to see what is available. When you find a unit that looks promising, contact the Newport team at our contact page to confirm specifications, availability, pricing, and delivery requirements for your location. They can help you compare open top containers with standard or high cube options so you can choose the right container for your project.