20ft Open Top Container

LACU 210012 22G1 MAX. GROSS 30,480 kg TARE 2,200 kg

2,395 mm
7′ 10 1/4″

5,900 mm
19′ 4 1/4″

2,352 mm
7′ 8 5/8″

LACU 210012 22G1 MAX. GROSS 30,480 kg TARE 2,200 kg

2,292 mm
7′ 6 1/4″

2,340 mm
7′ 8 1/8″

HLBU 123456 7

2,230 mm
7′ 3 3/4″

5,338 mm
17′ 6 1/8″

Overview

The 20 ft Open Top container is designed for cargo that is difficult to load through standard container doors, allowing loading and unloading from above using cranes or other lifting equipment. It uses a removable tarpaulin roof system (and typically removable bows) to accommodate over-height or bulky items while maintaining a 20 ft footprint. As with all special equipment, specifications vary slightly by manufacturer and fleet.

Allows top loading for cargo that can’t be handled easily through the doors

Suitable for bulky / over-height pieces (within safe limits)

Typically includes removable bows + tarpaulin cover

Specs may vary by manufacturer / container fleet

20 ft Open Top Container Image Gallery

Best for / Not ideal for

Best for	Not ideal for
Machinery, industrial components, and crated cargo that benefits from top loading	Cargo needing active temperature control (reefer equipment)
Cargo with awkward shapes or limited maneuvering clearance through the door	Cargo highly sensitive to weather exposure without appropriate protection during stuffing/stripping (tarpaulin is not the same as a hard roof)
Loads that require crane handling at origin/destination	Operations where crane access isn’t available (top loading advantage is reduced)

Industries & typical commodities

Heavy machinery: industrial machinery, generators, equipment, and large components requiring crane loading.
Construction / Project cargo: pipes, structural steel, fabricated sections, and bulky project materials.
Manufacturing: large or crated components that are difficult to load through standard container doors.
Energy / Infrastructure: transformers, equipment, and oversized components requiring overhead access.
Mining equipment: machinery, large parts, and heavy components.
Steel and metal products: beams, plates, coils, and fabricated metal pieces requiring top loading.

Sizes & dimensions – 20ft Open Top Container

Dimension	Metric	Imperial
Internal Length	5.895 m	19.34 ft
Internal Width	2.350 m	7.71 ft
Internal Height	2.340 m	7.68 ft
Door Opening Width	2.338 m	7.67 ft
Door Opening Height	2.280 m	7.48 ft

Capacity & weights – 20ft Open Top Container

Spec	Metric	Imperial
Cubic Capacity	33.08 m³	1,149 ft³
Tare Weight	2,250 kg	5,402 lbs
Payload Capacity	28,230 kg	66,248 lbs
Max Cargo Weight	30,480 kg	71,650 lbs

How many pallets fit in a 20ft Open Top Container?

Pallet capacity varies by loading pattern and pallet type. Use the estimates below as a quick reference:

US standard pallets: up to 10

Euro pallets: up to 11

Note: the actual number depends on the loading pattern, cargo height, and weight/overhang constraints.

Handling recommendations

Keep weight evenly distributed (avoid concentrating weight toward the doors or on one side).

“Heavy on bottom”: Place heavier cargo at the bottom and keep the center of gravity low.

Secure cargo with dunnage / straps / blocking and bracing to prevent shifting in transit.

Treat the door opening as the real constraint: some items may fit inside but still not pass through the door if they are too wide or tall.

If you plan to floor-load (no pallets), map your loading order and access lanes to avoid reworking cargo during unloading.

Reduce large voids using dunnage to minimize vibration and movement.

FAQs about 20 ft Open Top Containers

What is a 20 ft Open Top container used for?

A 20 ft Open Top container is used when cargo is difficult to load through standard doors and benefits from top loading. It’s commonly chosen for machinery, bulky crates, and awkward shapes where crane handling is preferred. The removable roof system supports overhead access during stuffing/stripping. Because published specifications are examples from a carrier fleet, confirm the exact unit when cargo clearances or lift planning are tight.

How many pallets fit in a 20 ft Open Top container?

A 20 ft Open Top typically fits up to 10 US standard pallets or up to 11 Euro pallets in a common single-layer arrangement, similar to other 20 ft footprints. Actual capacity varies with pallet orientation, packaging overhang, and securing needs. If you require additional blocking/bracing or need access lanes for unloading, usable floor positions may drop. Use these as quick estimates and validate with your loading plan.

Is a 20 ft Open Top container waterproof and sealed?

An Open Top is designed to protect cargo using a tarpaulin roof system, but it is not the same as a rigid steel roof. Weather protection depends on cover condition, correct securing, and how long cargo is exposed during top loading and unloading. For moisture-sensitive freight, minimize exposure time, inspect the cover and sealing points, and use appropriate packaging (wraps, liners, or covers) as needed for the route.

When should I choose Open Top vs Standard container?

Choose an Open Top when door loading is impractical—typically for bulky or awkward cargo that requires overhead lifting. A standard container is usually preferable for routine boxed/palletized shipments because it offers full roof protection and simpler handling. If you have crane access and need top loading for operational reasons, an Open Top can reduce handling risk compared to forcing cargo through the doorway or disassembling packaging to fit.

What cargo is not suitable for a 20 ft Open Top container?

A 20 ft Open Top is not suitable for cargo needing active temperature control (reefer equipment), bulk liquids (tank), or shipments that require strict weather protection without additional packaging controls. It may also be a poor fit where crane access is not available, since top loading is the main advantage. Suitability depends on the cargo’s sensitivity and the handling plan, so confirm protection and securing requirements before booking.