40ft Open Top Container Guide: Dimensions & Loading Specs

What happens when you need to ship 12-meter long steel pipes that can only be loaded by a crane? You can't slide them into a standard box, and they are too long for a 20ft Open Top. You need the 40ft Open Top Container.

Listed in the TraceContainer.com system as "40 Open Top", this unit combines the massive volume of a 40ft container with the overhead accessibility of a flat rack. It is a favorite for the scrap metal, mining, and construction industries.

This guide explains the specific dimensions and use cases for the 40ft Open Top.

What is a 40ft Open Top?

It is a 40ft long steel container that replaces the solid steel roof with a removable tarpaulin (canvas) supported by movable steel roof bows.

• The Door Header: Like the 20ft version, the rear door header swivels out. This allows you to load tall cargo via the doors (using a forklift) without hitting the top frame.

• The Roof: The entire roof can be opened to allow overhead crane loading.

When to Choose 40ft vs. 20ft Open Top?

This choice usually comes down to Length and Volume, not just weight.

1. Length: If your machinery or pipes are longer than 5.9 meters, you must use a 40ft Open Top.

2. Volume (Scrap Metal): If you are shipping light scrap metal, a 20ft Open Top might fill up too fast. The 40ft Open Top gives you double the volume (approx 66 cbm) to maximize your load.

Best Uses:

• Long Industrial Parts: Steel pipes, drilling rods, and crane jibs.

• Bulk Cargo: Scrap steel, wood chips, or mining ore (loaded from the top via a chute/grabber).

• Over-Height Machinery: Manufacturing equipment that is taller than 2.3 meters but requires protection on the sides (unlike a flat rack).

40ft Open Top Dimensions

Note: Always check the door opening height if loading via forklift.

(Notice: The payload is often slightly LESS than a 20ft Open Top. This is because the 40ft structure is longer and heavier, leaving less net weight for cargo).

Tarp & Bows Management

The most common dispute in Open Top shipping involves the equipment condition.

• In Gauge: If your cargo fits inside, the tarp must be properly sealed to be watertight.

• Out of Gauge (OOG): If your cargo sticks out the top, the roof bows are removed. The shipping line usually requests you to store the bows inside the container or strap them to the cargo so they don't get lost.

Track Your Open Top

Whether it's carrying scrap metal or precision pipes, your 40ft Open Top is a vital part of your supply chain. Monitor its location globally with TraceContainer.com.

Track My Open Top Container