20ft Used Open Top Container — Cargo Worthy (Ref 2842)
A 20ft used open top container in Cargo Worthy condition — certified and ready for over-height cargo, top loading via crane, and heavy machinery transport. Instead of a fixed steel roof, the unit uses removable steel bows and a weatherproof tarpaulin, giving full overhead access along the entire container length. The door header above the rear cargo doors swings clear or removes completely, creating an unobstructed end opening for tall or out-of-gauge freight. Built to ISO 668 Series 1 dimensional standards.
Dimensions
External
| Length | 6,058 mm (20′ 0″) |
| Width | 2,438 mm (8′ 0″) |
| Height | 2,591 mm (8′ 6″) |
Internal
| Length | 5,898 mm (19′ 4″) |
| Width | 2,352 mm (7′ 8″) |
| Height to bow (bows fitted) | 2,350 mm (7′ 8.5″) |
| Internal volume | ~33.2 m³ (~1,360 cu ft) |
| Floor area | 14.86 m² (160 sq ft) |
End Door Opening
| Width | 2,340 mm (7′ 8″) |
| Height (door header fitted) | 2,280 mm (7′ 5″) |
| Height (door header removed) | Full container height clearance for over-height loading |
Weight
| Tare weight | 2,350 kg |
| Payload capacity | 28,130 kg |
| Max gross weight (CSC) | 30,480 kg |
Open Top Configuration & Specifications
| Roof | Removable steel bows — open top configuration |
| Tarpaulin | Weatherproof tarpaulin — rope-secured over bows (used, condition-appropriate to CW grade) |
| Door header | Removable / swing-clear — unobstructed end access for over-height cargo |
| Lashing rings | Forged steel — floor and wall mounted for cargo restraint |
| Construction | Corrugated Cor-Ten steel — rust and corrosion resistant |
| Flooring | 28mm hardwood timber on steel cross-member base |
| Doors | Full-width double swing rear cargo doors |
| Locking | Heavy-duty steel locking bars and handles |
| Corner castings | ISO standard forged steel — crane, twistlock, and spreader bar compatible |
| Condition | Cargo Worthy (Used) — CSC plate valid for active shipping |
| ISO type code | 22U1 (20ft open top) |
Open Top vs Standard Container — Key Differences
| Feature | Standard Closed Container | Open Top Container |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | Fixed corrugated steel | Removable bows + tarpaulin |
| Overhead access | None | Full crane access from above |
| End access height | Fixed door header | Removable door header — over-height cargo |
| Over-height cargo | Not possible | Cargo can protrude above container height |
| Crane loading | End only | Top and end |
| Cargo securing | Floor lashing rings | Floor and wall lashing rings |
Note: If cargo significantly exceeds container height, a flat rack container (no roof at all) may be more appropriate. Confirm cargo dimensions before ordering.
Key Features
- Cargo Worthy certified — CSC plate valid for active international shipping
- Removable steel bows — full overhead crane access for top loading
- Weatherproof tarpaulin — rope-secured over bows for transit weather protection
- Removable door header — creates unobstructed end access for over-height cargo
- Forged steel lashing rings on floor and walls for cargo restraint
- Corrugated Cor-Ten steel construction — rust and corrosion resistant
- 28mm hardwood timber floor — rated for forklift entry and heavy loads
- ISO standard corner castings — crane, forklift, and twistlock compatible
Applications
Heavy Machinery and Plant Transport
Excavators, generators, compressors, and industrial plant that exceed standard door height load from above via crane. The removable door header allows end-loading of tall machinery without height restrictions at the rear opening.
Structural Steel and Long Material Freight
Steel beams, pipes, and fabricated structural components load from above without the manoeuvring constraints of end-only door access. Forged steel lashing rings on floor and walls secure long structural loads during transport.
Mining Equipment Export
Mining components and spare parts that cannot be disassembled to fit standard container dimensions ship in open top units. Exporters avoid flat rack surcharges for cargo that fits within container width and length but exceeds standard door height.
Bulk Material Loading
Bulk materials — stone, gravel, scrap metal, and agricultural produce — load directly from above via grab crane or conveyor. Open top containers cut loading time compared to end-door-only configurations for bulk commodity freight.
Over-Height Cargo Storage
The removable bows allow cargo taller than the container’s internal height to sit inside the container base with the top section protruding above. The tarpaulin can be partially secured around the protruding cargo for weather protection during storage and short-haul transport.
Condition Notes for Used Open Top Cargo Worthy
Cargo Worthy grade confirms the unit meets structural requirements for active shipping — walls, floor, doors, and corner castings sound. Expect cosmetic wear from marine service: surface rust, minor dents, faded paint, and scrape marks. The tarpaulin is used-grade — weatherproof but shows service wear. Steel bows and door header hardware are functional. If a new tarpaulin is required for a specific application, replacement tarps are available at order.
Compare configurations across the full 20ft shipping container range or browse the modified container range for specialised freight options.



