20ft Open Top Containers: Durable, weather-resistant, and ideal for oversized cargo. Easy top-loading. Get a free quote for your next project!
Model: 20' Standard Open Top (Removable Tarpaulin)
Provider: Worthy Container / Web: www.worthycontainer.com
Standard Compliance: ISO 668, ISO 1496-1, CSC Certified
The 20ft Open Top container is engineered specifically for the transport and storage of oversized, heavy, or awkward cargo. Unlike standard dry containers with a fixed steel roof, the Open Top model features a removable roof system consisting of galvanized steel rafters (bows) and a heavy-duty, weather-proof tarpaulin (Tir).
At Worthy Container, we provide these units to industries requiring top-loading capabilities via overhead cranes or for cargo that exceeds the height of a standard container. This design allows for "over-height" cargo to be transported securely while remaining protected from the elements.
External Length: 6,058 mm (20' 0")
External Width: 2,438 mm (8' 0")
External Height: 2,591 mm (8' 6")
Internal Length: 5,898 mm (19' 4")
Internal Width: 2,352 mm (7' 8")
Internal Height: 2,348 mm (7' 8")
Door Opening Height: 2,280 mm (7' 5")
Top Opening Length: ~5,500 mm (approx. 18' 0")
Top Opening Width: ~2,200 mm (approx. 7' 2")
| Feature | Metric (kg) | Imperial (lbs) |
| Tare Weight (Approx.) | ~2,350 kg | ~5,180 lbs |
| Max Payload | ~28,130 kg | ~62,015 lbs |
| Max Gross Weight | 30,480 kg | ~67,200 lbs |
| Internal Volume | 32.5 m³ | ~1,148 cu. ft. |
Roof Bows: The unit is fitted with removable, galvanized steel "cambered" rafters. These bows support the tarpaulin and provide lateral structural tension to the side walls.
Tarpaulin (Tir): A heavy-duty, 600g/m² PVC-coated polyester fabric. It is UV-resistant, fire-retardant, and 100% waterproof.
Tir Cable: A specialized PVC-coated wire cable (Tir cable) runs through the eyelets of the tarp and the lashing rings on the container frame. This can be sealed for international customs security.
A critical feature of the Worthy Container Open Top unit is the removable or swinging rear header (the bar above the end doors).
Function: This header can be unlatched and swung out of the way, allowing for large machinery to be driven or pushed into the container without being restricted by the door frame height.
Floor: 28mm Marine-grade plywood, pressure-treated for heavy-duty industrial use.
Lashing Points: Multiple high-tensile lashing rings are welded into the bottom side rails (and sometimes the top rails) to secure heavy machinery during transit.
Crane Loading: Ideal for heavy glass sheets, large engines, industrial turbines, or bulk minerals that must be lowered into the container from above.
Over-Height Capability: If cargo is taller than 8' 6", it can be loaded into an open top. While it cannot be stacked on in this configuration, it allows for the legal transport of oversized machinery.
Versatility: With the roof and header in place, the unit functions as a standard dry container. With them removed, it becomes a specialized flat-rack alternative with the added security of side walls.
Bulk Handling: Frequently used for scrap metal or agricultural waste where the material is "dumped" in from a height.
Condition: Pristine condition with a brand-new, high-tension tarpaulin.
Features: Standard with a factory-fitted Lock Box and galvanized hardware to prevent rust.
Best For: High-value machinery export and long-term industrial storage.
Condition: Guaranteed Wind & Water Tight (WWT) when the tarp is secured.
Grading: Worthy Container inspects all used units to ensure the roof bows are not bent and the header bar swings freely. We often provide a brand-new replacement tarpaulin with used units to ensure weatherproofing.
Tarp Maintenance: Regularly inspect the tarpaulin for small punctures. Even a small tear can lead to water pooling and weight-loading on the roof bows.
Roof Bow Storage: When the unit is open, ensure the roof bows are stored safely. If they are lost or bent, the tarpaulin will sag, causing "ponding" during rain.
Header Lubrication: Ensure the hinge on the swinging rear header is greased annually to prevent it from seizing.
Foundation: Must be placed on a level surface. If the unit is unlevel, the side walls can "splay" (tilt outward) once the roof bows are removed, making it difficult to re-install the rafters.
Vertical Clearance: Ensure there is sufficient height for an overhead crane if you intend to top-load.
Delivery: Typically delivered via Hiab (Crane) Truck or Tilt-Tray.
Weight: Approx. 2.3 tons (5,180 lbs).
Access: Ensure the driver has space to offload and that the top of the container is accessible for staff to secure the Tir cable.
Please refer to the lists of our available 20ft Open Top containers below for each location. Let us know if you require any further assistance.