Open top containers
An open top container has no fixed steel roof. Instead a tarpaulin sits on removable roof bows, and the header above the door can be swung out or removed. This allows loading from above by crane – and carrying goods taller than the container itself.
In shipping, the open top is the standard for machinery, plant parts, stone, pipes and bulk goods. On land it is rarer, but in some cases exactly right: when heavy or tall items can only be moved by crane. As a permanent, protected store it is of limited use, because the tarpaulin is neither as tight nor as secure as a steel roof.
Typical uses
- Transport and interim storage of machines that can only be moved by crane
- Tall plant parts exceeding the standard internal height
- Bulk goods, natural stone, paving or scrap filled from above
- Long pipes, beams or timber placed by crane
- Construction sites where the tower crane lifts material straight out
Sizes and dimensions
| Size | External L × W × H | Internal approx. L × W × H | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 ft open top | 6.058 × 2.438 × 2.591 m | 5.90 × 2.35 × 2.35 m | roof opening almost full area |
| 40 ft open top | 12.192 × 2.438 × 2.591 m | 12.03 × 2.35 × 2.35 m | for long and heavy items |
Internal height and roof opening are approximate and depend on the bow design. High cube open tops exist but are rare.
✓ Advantages
- Loading from above by crane or wheel loader
- Over-height cargo possible if the tarpaulin is adapted
- Removable door header makes sliding in tall items easier
- Robust steel body like a standard container
! Points to consider
- Tarpaulin is less tight than a steel roof and ages under UV light
- No real protection against entry from above
- Mind snow load and ponding water on the tarpaulin
- Of limited use as permanent storage for sensitive goods
Equipment and options
- Weatherproof tarpaulin with eyelets
- Removable roof bows
- Swing-out or removable door header
- Lashing points on floor, corner posts and top side rail
- Customs cable (TIR cord) for sealing the tarpaulin
Price guide
- 20 ft open top used
- usually somewhat above a used standard container
- Replacement tarpaulin
- approx. €200 – 600 depending on size and quality
- Hire
- mainly in the transport business, rarely stationary
Rough orientation values without guarantee; prices vary by region, condition and market.
What to look out for
- With used open tops, inspect the tarpaulin separately: tears, brittle patches and missing eyelets are common – budget for a replacement.
- Check that all bows are present; missing bows let the tarpaulin sag and water collects.
- For stationary use, provide a roof fall or a fixed cover so water does not pond on the tarpaulin.
- If you are really looking for storage, a standard or open side container is almost always the better choice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an open top container as a garden store?
Possible, but not ideal. The tarpaulin is less tight and easy to cut. For permanent storage a standard container with a steel roof is the better choice.
How is an open top closed?
The tarpaulin is tensioned through its eyelets with a customs cable – a continuous steel cable – and sealed at the door. That reveals tampering but is not protection against break-ins.
Related guides
Planning with open top containers?
Compare sizes, costs and buying vs. renting in our guides.
