Open Top Containers

Open Top Containers – Flexible Shipping & Storage for Oversized Cargo

At MCH United Kingdom, we provide Open Top Containers that are purpose-built for transporting and storing oversized, tall, or awkwardly shaped cargo that doesn’t fit into standard shipping containers.

With a removable tarpaulin roof and reinforced steel end frames, open tops allow cargo to be loaded from above using cranes or forklifts. This makes them the ideal solution for industries moving construction materials, heavy machinery, timber, mining equipment, and over-height cargo.

We supply both new and used open top containers for sale and offer flexible hire options for short-term or long-term projects. With United Kingdom-wide delivery, SCSAU ensures your cargo is moved securely, efficiently, and in full compliance with international standards.

Why Choose an Open Top Container?

Unlike standard containers with fixed steel roofs, Open Top Containers feature a removable tarpaulin cover with roof bows. This design gives users full overhead access, which is essential when moving cargo that cannot be loaded through conventional container doors.

This overhead loading option significantly reduces handling time and provides safe, practical solutions for large-scale industries.

Key Benefits of Open Top Containers

Easy Top Loading – Perfect for cargo that can’t be loaded through standard doors, such as tall pipes, steel beams, or industrial machinery.
Extra Height Capacity – Accommodates equipment and goods that exceed the height limits of standard containers.
Durable & Secure – Heavy-duty tarpaulin is weather-resistant, while the steel construction ensures structural strength.
Flexible Options – Available in 20ft and 40ft sizes, new or used, for both sale and hire.
Transport Ready – CSC-plated and fully certified for international sea freight, road, and rail transport.

Find Open Top Shipping Containers for Sale

At MCH United Kingdom, our new and used open top shipping containers offer large storage capacity with the convenience of overhead loading. Designed for both commercial and industrial projects, they are available for:

Sale – A long-term, cost-effective solution for businesses with regular oversized cargo requirements.
Hire – Flexible short-term hire options, perfect for seasonal projects, events, or one-off transport needs.

Get in touch with our team today to request a quote and explore the right container option for your business.

Standard Open Top Container Sizes & Dimensions

We offer both 20ft and 40ft open top containers, designed to meet international ISO standards.

Container Type	External Dimensions (L x W x H)	Internal Dimensions (L x W x H)	Capacity (Approx.)	Tare Weight
20ft Open Top	6.06m x 2.44m x 2.59m	5.89m x 2.35m x 2.38m	32–33 m³	~2,250 kg
40ft Open Top	12.19m x 2.44m x 2.59m	12.03m x 2.35m x 2.38m	66–67 m³	~3,850 kg

High cube open top containers also available on request.

20ft & 40ft Open Top Containers

20ft Open Top Containers

Compact yet versatile.
Ideal for steel, timber, or construction materials.
Great resale value with options in new or used condition.

40ft Open Top Containers

- Maximum internal capacity for bulk cargo.
- Equipped with a removable tarpaulin roof, making them perfect for over-height machinery and industrial components.
- Available in both general purpose (GP) and high cube (HC) models.

Hardtop or Soft Top Options

Open Top Containers are available with either soft tarpaulin covers or hard roof systems:

Soft Top (Tarpaulin Cover) – Lightweight, waterproof, and secured with bows and lashing rings. Easy to remove for loading and unloading.
Hard Top – Offers additional security and protection against theft, while maintaining full overhead access.

Both options are stackable like standard containers, making them efficient for storage and freight.

Popular Uses of Open Top Containers

Open tops are widely used across industries for their versatility:

Construction Industry – Transport steel beams, scaffolding, timber, or pre-fabricated panels.
Mining & Heavy Equipment – Move drilling rigs, mining parts, and large machinery.
Manufacturing & Engineering – Ship oversized industrial equipment and plant components.
Logistics & Freight Forwarding – Enable fast crane loading and efficient cargo turnover.
Agriculture & Farming – Store or move tractors, harvesters, and bulky farm supplies.

Modifications & Custom Features

We can modify open top containers to meet your project’s specific requirements. Options include:

Removable tarpaulin roof with heavy-duty bows for secure overhead loading.
Additional lashing rings to improve cargo securing.
Side access or roller doors for added convenience.
Internal flooring upgrades for heavy or high-wear cargo.
Custom paint and branding to match your company’s identity.

By tailoring modifications, we ensure your container not only meets compliance but also maximises operational efficiency.

Open Top vs Flat Rack Containers – Which is Right for You?

While Open Top Containers are ideal for goods requiring overhead access and moderate over-height cargo, they aren’t always the best choice for every load.

Open Tops – Suitable when cargo needs protection from the elements. Once loaded, the tarpaulin roof or hard top is secured, making them weatherproof and stackable.
Flat Racks – A better choice for extremely tall or irregular goods that won’t fit even with a tarpaulin roof. Flat racks offer a fully open design with no roof and higher payload capacities.

Our team can help assess your cargo and recommend whether an Open Top or Flat Rack Container is best for your project.