40ft Open Top Cargo-Worthy Container — Used

A cargo-worthy 40ft open top container in used condition — in service and structurally sound. Chosen for loading from above with a crane. Every unit is inspected before it leaves our yard, so the grade below is what you will actually receive.

Description
The 40-foot Open Top Shipping Container is engineered to bridge the gap between a standard dry van and a flat rack. It retains the weather-resistant qualities of a standard container while providing the versatility of open-top loading.
The structure is built with a reinforced top rail to compensate for the absence of a solid roof, maintaining the box’s torsional rigidity. The removable roof bows (rafters) allow the tarpaulin to be tensioned over the cargo, protecting it from the elements while remaining accessible for unloading from above. The steel floor is designed to handle concentrated loads from heavy machinery or dense materials.
Primarily used in global logistics for commodities that cannot be easily loaded through standard double doors—such as marble slabs, large cables, scrap metal, or over-sized parts—this unit also serves industrial storage needs. Because it is cargo-worthy, it is suitable for both one-off exports and long-term asset leasing where structural certification is required. The container’s design ensures compatibility with all standard container handling equipment, allowing for seamless integration into existing shipping and logistics operations.
Technical Specifications

External Dimensions (L x W x H): 40ft x 8ft x 8ft 6in (Approx. 12.19m x 2.44m x 2.59m)
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H): Approx. 39ft 6in x 7ft 8in x 8ft (Varies slightly by manufacturer)
Door Opening (Rear): Approx. 7ft 8in wide x 7ft 5in high
Open Top Opening: Full length overhead access (under tarpaulin)
Maximum Gross Weight: Approx. 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg)
Tare Weight: Approx. 8,820 lbs (4,000 kg)
Payload Capacity: Approx. 58,380 lbs (26,480 kg)
Material: Corten Steel (Weathering Steel)
Flooring: Marine-grade plywood or Bamboo over steel cross members
Certification: CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate inclusive (validity may vary by unit)

Compatibility / Intended Use

Oversized Cargo: Ideal for loading machinery, vehicles, or parts that are too tall for a standard dry container.
Project Cargo: Suitable for construction materials, timber, and steel profiles.
Bulk Commodities: Effective for bulk loads requiring crane-and-grab or conveyor loading.
Export Shipping: Compliant with international shipping standards for sea freight.
Industrial Storage: Functional as a secure, ventilated storage unit when used on land.

Package Includes
Standard rear double-door locking gear and handles
1 x 40-foot Open Top Shipping Container (Cargo-worthy grade)
1 x Waterproof Tarpaulin Cover with tensioning gear
Removable Roof Bows (Rafters)

Dimensions and capacity

Internal dimensions are approximately 39 ft 5 in × 7 ft 8 in × 7 ft 10 in (12,032 × 2,350 × 2,393 mm), giving 2,390 cu ft (67.7 m³) of usable space, with double doors at one end. These are the standard figures for a 40ft container; exact internals vary slightly by manufacturer.

Condition

This is a used container that has been in service. It is wind and watertight — no holes, working door seals, an intact roof — but it shows its history: surface rust, dents and previous owner markings are normal and do not affect how it performs.

What it is good for

This unit is commonly used for loading from above with a crane. Doors, windows, insulation, electrics and paint can all be added before it ships — it is cheaper and neater to specify a conversion while the container is still in our yard than to modify it on your site afterwards.

Browse more in 40ft Containers, or see the full container catalogue.

Standards and inspection

Containers intended for international shipping carry a valid safety approval plate under the Convention for Safe Containers, administered by the International Maritime Organization. Condition grades such as cargo-worthy follow the inspection criteria published by the Institute of International Container Lessors. If you need a unit for shipping rather than static storage, tell us and we will confirm its plate before dispatch.

Delivery

Delivery is quoted against your site access rather than published as a flat rate, because haulage for a container depends on the distance, the approach and whether a crane is needed. Most deliveries use a tilt-bed truck, which needs a clear and reasonably level run about twice the container length. We price it before you commit.