Buy 40ft Open Top Containers in Bristol and the South West

Shipping Containers of Bristol supplies shipping containers for sale throughout Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, Bath and North East Somerset. The 40ft open top container is purpose-built for cargo that cannot be easily loaded through standard container doors.

Unlike a standard dry van, an open top container features a removable roof system with roof bows and a heavy-duty tarpaulin cover. This allows cargo to be loaded from above using a crane or other lifting equipment, making it ideal for tall, awkward or heavy items.

For detailed measurements and comparisons, visit our container dimensions guide and the full 40ft open top container dimensions page.

What is a 40ft Open Top Container?

A 40ft open-top container is an ISO-compliant shipping container with a removable roof rather than a fixed steel top. When the tarpaulin and roof bows are removed, the entire roof opening is accessible for top loading.

• Removable tarpaulin roof for crane access
• Strong steel side walls and end frames
• Double cargo doors with multi bar locking system
• Marine ply flooring on reinforced steel cross members
• Designed for road, rail and sea transport

Open-top containers are supplied as wind- and watertight when the roof system is correctly fitted. Wind and watertight means the unit prevents normal wind and rain ingress during storage and transport.

40ft Open Top Container Specifications

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 Uses for 40ft Open Top Containers

40ft open top containers are designed for cargo that exceeds the height of a standard container or cannot be easily manoeuvred through the end doors.

• Heavy machinery and plant equipment
• Boilers and generators
• Agricultural machinery
• Steel beams, pipes and structural sections
• Cable drums and oversized components

Once loaded, the tarpaulin roof is secured to protect the cargo during transport. For loads that exceed width limits, a 40ft flat rack container may be more suitable. For standard boxed cargo, a 40ft standard container provides a fully enclosed steel roof.

New and Used 40ft Open Top Containers

Shipping Containers of Bristol supplies both new one-trip and used open-top containers.

New One-Trip Units

• Minimal previous use
• Excellent structural condition
• Supplied with a valid CSC plate

A CSC plate is a safety approval plate that confirms a container meets international standards for shipping and stacking.

Used Units

• Previously operated in global shipping fleets
• Structurally sound and inspected before sale
• Cost-effective solution for project cargo and static storage

Delivery and Site Requirements in Bristol

We arrange delivery across Bristol and the wider South West region. Before booking transport, review our container delivery guide to confirm vehicle access, ground conditions and positioning requirements.

1. Provide a firm, level base such as concrete or compacted hardcore.
2. Allow adequate space for a large delivery vehicle and lifting operation.
3. Ensure no overhead obstructions restrict crane access if top loading is required.
4. Confirm that ground conditions can support both container and vehicle weight.

For long-term or commercial installations, review planning requirements through the Planning Portal.