--- title: "Rent 20ft Open Top Containers London" description: "Rent 20ft open top shipping containers in London. Perfect for transporting tall or oddly shaped cargo, these containers offer easy loading solutions." url: "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top" date: "2026-04-21T16:07:01+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- ![20ft open top Container](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/20ft-open-top-london.jpg) # Rent 20ft Open Top Containers in Greater London For logistics managers and site foremen in Greater London who face the challenge of transporting "out-of-gauge" cargo, the standard shipping container poses significant limitations. **Shipping Containers of London** provides the solution. We supply high-specification 20ft open-top containers for hire, specifically engineered for cargo that cannot be loaded through conventional doors or that exceeds standard height restrictions. Whether you are moving heavy machinery in **Park Royal** or managing scrap metal logistics near **Bexley**, our fleet offers the vertical access and structural integrity required for complex operations. ## Vertical Loading for Oversized Cargo The defining feature of the 20ft open-top container is its removable roof. By utilising removable steel roof bows and a heavy-duty tarpaulin, these units allow for unrestricted overhead loading via crane or crab grab. This capability is indispensable for handling heavy items such as industrial generators, steel girders, glass panelling, or scrap materials that must be lowered directly into the hold. Once loaded, the roof bows are replaced, and the tarpaulin is secured, providing a weather-tight seal that protects the cargo during transit or static storage. ## Key Features and Engineering Our rental fleet is maintained to rigorous standards to ensure safety and functionality on site. - **Unrestricted Access:** The header rail on the door end can be swung out (on specific models), and the roof is fully removable, facilitating the loading of over-height items. - **Robust Construction:** Manufactured from Corten steel, these units resist corrosion and withstand the rigours of heavy industrial use. The floor consists of 28mm marine-grade plywood or steel, capable of supporting heavy point loads. - **Weather Protection:** We supply heavy-duty, TIR-compliant tarpaulins. These are water-resistant and secured with high-tensile cables to ensure the cargo remains dry. - **Secure Transit:** Numerous lashing rings are welded to the bottom and top side rails, enabling secure fastening of shifting loads. ![A brown Open Top Containers is parked among others, with a forklift nearby in a gravel yard.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/OpenTopContainers2_original.jpg) ![A stack of colorful Open Top Containers in red, green, blue, and black against a white background.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/OpenTopContainers4_original.jpg) ![A stack of Open Top Containers in an outdoor area, with machinery and tools nearby, under a clear blue sky.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/OpenTopContainers_original.jpg) ![An interior view of a container, illuminated in vibrant blue and red colors, creating a striking visual effect.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/OpenTopContainers1_original.jpg) ![A Open Top Container with a blue tarp top, surrounded by other containers in an industrial area.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/OpenTopContainers3_original.jpg) ![Stacked Open Top Containers in red and blue, with a muddy ground and puddles reflecting the colors.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/20ftOpenTopscontainer5_original.jpg) ![A brown Open Top Containers is parked among others, with a forklift nearby in a gravel yard.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/thumb/OpenTopContainers2_original.jpg) ![A stack of colorful Open Top Containers in red, green, blue, and black against a white background.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/thumb/OpenTopContainers4_original.jpg) ![A stack of Open Top Containers in an outdoor area, with machinery and tools nearby, under a clear blue sky.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/thumb/OpenTopContainers_original.jpg) ![An interior view of a container, illuminated in vibrant blue and red colors, creating a striking visual effect.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/thumb/OpenTopContainers1_original.jpg) ![A Open Top Container with a blue tarp top, surrounded by other containers in an industrial area.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/thumb/OpenTopContainers3_original.jpg) ![Stacked Open Top Containers in red and blue, with a muddy ground and puddles reflecting the colors.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/175/thumb/20ftOpenTopscontainer5_original.jpg) ## Technical Specifications Understanding the dimensional capacity is vital for safe loading. Below are the typical specifications for our 20ft open top rental units. 20ft Open Top Specifications | Specification | Detail | |---|---| | External Dimensions | 20ft x 8ft x 8ft 6in (6.06m x 2.44m x 2.59m) | | Internal Dimensions | 19ft 4in x 7ft 8in x 7ft 8in (5.89m x 2.35m x 2.34m) | | Door Opening | 7ft 8in wide x 7ft 5in high (2.34m x 2.28m) | | Roof Opening | 19ft 1in length x 7ft 3in width approx. | | Payload Capacity | Up to 28,000 kg (subject to model) | | Tare Weight | Approx. 2,300 kg | ## Strategic Applications in London The 20ft open top is a versatile asset used across various sectors in the capital. - **Construction:** Essential for sites with tower cranes, allowing materials such as timber packs and precast concrete to be dropped directly into secure storage. - **Events and Festivals:** Used at venues like **Hyde Park** or **The O2** for storing rigging and lighting trusses that are too bulky for standard box containers. - **Recycling and Waste:** Ideal for the bulk transport of scrap metal or aggregate, where top-loading via grab is the only efficient method. ## The Rental Process We aim to make the hiring process as efficient as the container itself. 1. **Consultation:** Contact our team to discuss your cargo dimensions. We can advise on whether standard or high-cube options are best suited. 2. **Logistics Planning:** Delivering a 20ft unit requires a rigid HIAB vehicle. We will assess your site access to ensure our trucks can manoeuvre safely in London's tight streets. 3. **Delivery:** Our transport team will deliver and offload the unit to the exact location required. 4. **Collection:** Upon project completion, we arrange the collection of the unit. ## Frequently Asked Questions #### Can I transport cargo that is taller than the container? Yes, this is a primary function of the open top. However, if the cargo protrudes above the roofline during road transport, it is classified as an abnormal load. You must inform us in advance so we can check route heights (bridges and cables) and ensure compliance with road haulage regulations. #### Is the tarpaulin included in the hire? Yes, all our open-top containers are supplied with a full set of roof bows and a heavy-duty tarpaulin in good condition. If you are transporting over-height cargo that prevents the use of the standard tarp, you will need to arrange your own weather protection. #### How secure is an open-top container? While the steel walls and doors offer the same security as a standard container, the roof is naturally less secure than a solid steel top. For high-value goods left on-site overnight, we recommend keeping the cargo below the roofline and securing the tarpaulin with a TIR cord and padlock. #### How much space is needed for delivery? Delivery requires a rigid HIAB lorry, approximately 30-35ft long. The driver needs substantial turning space and firm, hard-standing ground. We generally advise against delivery to residential streets unless there is a dedicated loading bay or substantial access. #### Can I use these for shipping goods abroad? Our hire fleet is typically reserved for domestic storage and transport. If you require a container for international shipping (one-way), please speak to our sales team about purchasing a unit with a valid CSC plate. [Container Quote](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/container-quote) ## Schema ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Hire Containers", "item": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "20ft Open Top", "item": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top" } ] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Product", "productID": "COYU", "name": "20ft Open Top Container", "image": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/20ft-open-top-london.jpg", "description": "Rent 20ft open top shipping containers in London. Perfect for transporting tall or oddly shaped cargo, these containers offer easy loading solutions.", "sku": "20OT", "mpn": "COYU", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "COYU" }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "offerCount": 1, "lowPrice": "0.00", "highPrice": "0.00", "priceCurrency": "GBP", "url": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top", "itemCondition": "http://schema.org/NewCondition", "availability": "http://schema.org/InStock" }, "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "4.8", "reviewCount": "323", "worstRating": 0, "bestRating": 5 } } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": [ "LocalBusiness" ], "@id": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top#localbusiness1579", "name": "Shipping Containers of London", "image": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/20ft-open-top-london.jpg", "url": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top", "telephone": "0330 0130 636", "priceRange": "£2-£5000", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "298 Sandycombe Road", "addressCountry": "GB", "addressLocality": "London", "addressRegion": "Greater London", "postalCode": "TW9 3NG" }, "openingHoursSpecification": [ { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Monday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Tuesday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Wednesday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Thursday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Friday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "4.8", "reviewCount": "323", "worstRating": 0, "bestRating": 5 } } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top" }, "headline": "20ft Open Top", "description": "Rent 20ft open top shipping containers in London. Perfect for transporting tall or oddly shaped cargo, these containers offer easy loading solutions.", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/20ft-open-top-london.jpg" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Shipping Containers of London", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/masterlogo_58h.png" } }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Shipping Container of London", "url": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top" }, "datePublished": "2021-11-03T12:22:16+00:00", "dateCreated": "2021-11-03T12:22:16+00:00", "dateModified": "2026-01-23T10:26:19+00:00" } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I transport cargo that is taller than the container?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, this is a primary function of the open top. However, if the cargo protrudes above the roofline during road transport, it is classified as an abnormal load. You must inform us in advance so we can check route heights (bridges and cables) and ensure compliance with road haulage regulations." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is the tarpaulin included in the hire?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, all our open-top containers are supplied with a full set of roof bows and a heavy-duty tarpaulin in good condition. If you are transporting over-height cargo that prevents the use of the standard tarp, you will need to arrange your own weather protection." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How secure is an open-top container?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While the steel walls and doors offer the same security as a standard container, the roof is naturally less secure than a solid steel top. For high-value goods left on-site overnight, we recommend keeping the cargo below the roofline and securing the tarpaulin with a TIR cord and padlock." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much space is needed for delivery?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Delivery requires a rigid HIAB lorry, approximately 30-35ft long. The driver needs substantial turning space and firm, hard-standing ground. We generally advise against delivery to residential streets unless there is a dedicated loading bay or substantial access." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I use these for shipping goods abroad?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Our hire fleet is typically reserved for domestic storage and transport. If you require a container for international shipping (one-way), please speak to our sales team about purchasing a unit with a valid CSC plate." } } ] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Service", "name": "Container Hire", "serviceType": "Container Hire", "description": "Rent 20ft open top shipping containers in London. Perfect for transporting tall or oddly shaped cargo, these containers offer easy loading solutions.", "image": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/", "url": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/hire-containers/20ft-open-top", "provider": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Shipping Containers of London", "image": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/london-shipping-containers8.jpg", "telephone": "0330 0130 636", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "streetAddress": "298 Sandycombe Road", "addressCountry": "GB", "addressLocality": "London", "addressRegion": "Greater London", "postalCode": "TW9 3NG" } }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "offerCount": 1, "lowPrice": "0.00", "highPrice": "0.00", "priceCurrency": "GBP" } } ```