20ft Open Top

You can find a selection of new and used 20ft open-top containers available for hire throughout the UK! They’re perfect for your machinery, over-height cargo, and top-loading requirements. Plus, we offer fast delivery all across the nation!

Open Top Container

20ft Open Top Shipping Containers for Hire

Top-loading container hire for over-height or awkward cargo , delivered across the UK.

Acorn Containers offers 20ft open-top containers for hire to commercial and private clients nationwide. These containers are the perfect choice for projects requiring easy top-loading access using cranes or forklifts , ideal for machinery, industrial piping, boilers, heavy equipment, and construction materials.

Hire options are available in new and used condition, all with removable tarpaulin roofs, reinforced steel construction, and secure locking mechanisms. Each unit is CSC plated and ready for international shipping or secure on-site storage.

A view inside a blue shipping container, showing straps and metallic structure along the floor.
Inside a shipping container, rolls of material are secured with straps under a blue tarp. Red container walls visible.
An empty shipping container with red walls and a blue tarp ceiling, creating a spacious interior.
A stack of colorful shipping containers in a yard, showing various colors and conditions, some slightly weathered.
Workers in safety gear unload green cylinders from a shipping container at a bustling port.
Cargo container with red and green gas cylinders, a ladder and port machinery in the background.
A stack of colorful shipping containers, including red and blue, showing various labels and logos.

Why Hire a 20ft Open Top Container from Acorn?

  • Top-Loading Access: Easily load tall or awkward cargo via crane or forklift.
  • Flexible Rental Terms: Cost-effective hire options for short- and long-term needs.
  • Removable Tarpaulin Roof: Heavy-duty cover with end support bars for weather protection.
  • UK-Wide Delivery: Fast dispatch from our depots nationwide.
  • Project-Ready Units: Ideal for temporary builds, infrastructure works, and oversized freight handling.

Need assistance choosing the right open-top container? Call our hire specialists on 0330 027 1420 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

20ft Open Top Container Specifications

Description Imperial Metric
Maximum Payload 62,170 lb 28,200 kg
External Dimensions (L×W×H) 20’ x 8’ x 8’6" 6.096 x 2.438 x 2.591 m
Internal Length 19’ 4 1/4” 5.898 m
Internal Width 7’ 8 5/8” 2.352 m
Internal Height 7’ 8 1/2” 2.348 m
Roof Opening Length 18’ 1/16” 5.490 m
Roof Opening Width 7’ 3” 2.210 m
Gross Weight 67,197 lb 30,480 kg
Tare Weight 5,027 lb 2,280 kg

Specifications may vary depending on manufacturer or refurbishment status. Request a hire quote for up-to-date availability and exact specs.

FAQs About Hiring 20ft Open Top Containers

What is a 20ft open-top container?

It’s a 20ft standard shipping container without a solid steel roof, instead fitted with a tarpaulin cover secured by roof bows. This design allows for easy vertical loading of tall or bulky cargo.

Is hiring more cost-effective than buying?

Absolutely. Hiring is ideal for temporary or project-based use, helping you avoid large upfront costs while benefiting from fast delivery and flexible rental periods.

Are open-top containers weatherproof?

Yes. All hired containers are wind and watertight, including heavy-duty tarpaulins to protect your goods during storage or transit.

Can I hire containers in a specific colour?

While stock colour varies, respraying for long-term hire contracts may be available upon request. Speak with our team for options.

Hire a 20ft Open Top Container Today

If you’re managing oversized loads, construction equipment or materials that need top-loading, our 20ft open top containers for hire offer the ideal solution. Benefit from rapid delivery, expert advice, and flexible hire terms.

Call 0330 027 1420 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to speak with our hire specialists.

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