---
title: "Hire 20ft Open Top Containers in Bristol"
description: "At our Bristol depot, we take pride in offering a diverse range of high-quality open-top shipping containers. Whether you're in the market for brand-new or pre-owned containers, we have you covered."
url: "https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/hire/20ot"
date: "2026-05-08T11:15:58+00:00"
language: "en-GB"
---

![Open Top Container](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/images/images/CBXU4632203%207.jpg)

# 20ft Open Top Containers in Bristol

 New and Used 20ft Open Top Shipping Containers Shipping Containers of Bristol supplies [shipping containers for sale](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/sales) and [hire](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/hire) throughout Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, Bath and North East Somerset. The 20ft open-top container is designed for cargo that cannot be easily loaded through standard container doors.

Each unit features a removable tarpaulin roof and detachable roof bows. This allows cargo to be lifted in from above using a crane, making it suitable for machinery, steelwork and tall equipment.

![20ft open top container in Bristol with removable tarpaulin roof](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/images/images/open-top-containers-bristol1.jpg)

For full measurements and load data, see our [container dimensions guide](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/information/container-dimensions) and the detailed [20ft open top container dimensions page](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/information/container-dimensions/20ft-open-top-container-dimensions).

  ## Key Features of the 20ft Open Top Container

- **Removable tarpaulin roof:** Enables safe top loading of oversized or over-height cargo.
- **Detachable roof bows:** Create a clear roof aperture when removed.
- **Wind and watertight structure:** Protects contents when the roof is correctly secured.
- **ISO compliant design:** Suitable for road, rail and sea transport.
- **Secure locking system:** Double cargo doors with multi-bar locking.
- **Heavy-duty timber floor:** Reinforced marine ply fixed to steel cross members.

Wind and watertight means the container prevents normal wind and rain ingress during storage and transport.

  ## 20ft Open Top Container Specifications

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

Payload refers to the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry. Tare weight is the weight of the empty container. Gross weight is the combined weight of the container and its maximum payload.

  ## Typical Applications

- Heavy machinery and plant equipment
- Steel beams and structural sections
- Pipes, cables and long materials
- Agricultural machinery
- Boilers, generators and industrial components

For loads that exceed width limits, consider a [20ft flat rack container](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/sales/20fr). For fully enclosed storage without top loading, a [20ft standard container](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/sales/20dv) may be more suitable.

  ## Delivery and Siting in Bristol

Delivery is available across Bristol and the wider South West region. Review our [container delivery guide](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/information/container-delivery-guide) before booking to confirm vehicle access, ground conditions and lifting requirements.

1. Provide a firm, level base such as concrete or compacted hardcore.
2. Ensure clear overhead space for crane loading if required.
3. Allow sufficient access for delivery vehicles.
4. Confirm that ground conditions can support the container and its load.

For permanent or commercial installations, check planning guidance through the [Planning Portal](https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission).

  ## 20ft Open Top Container FAQs

### Are open-top containers suitable for sea freight?

Yes. Units fitted with a valid CSC plate can be used for international shipping, provided the cargo is secured within rated limits.

### Can I hire a 20ft open top container?

Yes. Open-top containers are available for both short and long-term projects. Visit our [container hire page](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/hire) for further details.

### How do I request a quote?

Complete the [online quote form](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/container-quote) with your delivery postcode and requirements, or call 0330 0130 636 to speak with our container team.

  [Container Quote](https://shippingcontainersofbristol.co.uk/container-quote) **Tel: [0330 0130 636](tel:03300130636)**

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