The 20foot sideopen steel dry cargo container has become a global standard for transporting, storing, and protecting goods. With external dimensions of 20feet long, 8feet wide and 8feet6inches high, it offers a perfect balance of capacity, maneuverability, and structural strength. Designed for durability, security, and ease of handling, the sideopen configuration provides rapid loading and unloading while retaining the rugged protection of a fulltunnel steel shell.
Technical Specifications
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| External Length | 20 ft (6,058 mm) |
| External Width | 8 ft (2,438 mm) |
| External Height | 8 ft6 in (2,591 mm) |
| Internal Length | 19 ft4 in (5,898 mm) |
| Internal Width | 7 ft8 in (2,352 mm) |
| Internal Height | 7 ft10 in (2,385 mm) |
| Door Opening | Sideopen, 15 ft6 in (4,724 mm) width, 9 ft1 in (2,768 mm) height |
| Maximum Gross Weight | 30,480lb (13,820kg) |
| Payload Capacity | 24,000lb (10,886kg) |
| Shell Material | COR-TEN steel, 1.6mm thickness |
| Floor | Marinegrade plywood, 28mm thickness, reinforced with steel crossbars |
| Roof | Steel, doublegauge, insulated (optional) |
| Locking System | Heavyduty ISOstandard steel lock |
Key Features & Benefits
- SideOpen Door Design Enables the use of forklifts, pallet jacks, and even crane lifts directly from the side, cutting loading time by 30% on average.
- Robust Steel Construction CORTEN steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and can withstand impacts and harsh weather without compromising structural integrity.
- Standardized Size Fits seamlessly into most intermodal transport chainsship, rail, and truckfacilitating global logistics without the need for special handling.
- Security Reinforced lock bar, doubleacting hinges, and tamperproof bolts keep cargo safe from theft and pilferage.
- Customizable Interiors Options for ventilated walls, insulated panels, or shelving systems to meet specific industry requirements.
- Ease of Maintenance Smooth steel panels are easy to clean; corrosionresistant coatings prolong service life to 30years or more.
Typical Applications
The sideopen containers versatility makes it suitable for a broad range of sectors. Below are some of the most common uses:
- Manufacturing & Distribution Transport of finished goods, spare parts, and raw materials.
- Construction Delivery of tools, hardware, and prefabricated components to job sites.
- Agriculture Storage of feed, fertilizers, and equipment; side opening simplifies handling of bulk bags.
- Retail & ECommerce Consolidation of pallets for bulk shipment to regional warehouses.
- Humanitarian Relief Rapid deployment of emergency supplies; side door allows quick access over uneven terrain.
Ordering & Delivery Options
Customers can order the container directly from the manufacturer or through certified distributors. Typical lead times range from 35 weeks for standard units to 68 weeks for custom configurations. Delivery options include doortodoor freight, railtodoor service, or containeroncontainer (COC) shipping for overseas projects.
Maintenance & Care Guidelines
Proper upkeep extends the life of a sideopen steel container. Follow these best practices:
- Inspect hinges, lock bars, and door seals monthly for signs of wear or deformation.
- Wash the exterior with mild detergent and fresh water after exposure to salt spray or chemical spills.
- Apply a rustinhibiting coating every 35 years, especially in humid or coastal environments.
- Check the floor for water intrusion; replace compromised plywood panels promptly.
- Store the container under cover when not in use to reduce UV degradation of paint.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the sideopen door be fitted with a lockable hatch?
- Yes. Most manufacturers offer a lockable steel hatch that can be welded or bolted onto the door frame for added security.
- Is it possible to stack these containers?
- Standard units are rated for a maximum stacking height of four containers (fouronfour). The roof and corner casting are engineered for this load.
- What is the weight of an empty container?
- Typical tare weight is between 4,800lb and 5,400lb (2,200kg2,450kg), depending on optional accessories.
- Can I add insulation?
- Yes. Insulated panels can be installed on the interior walls and ceiling, or a fully insulated roof can be supplied as a factory option.
- How do I transport a container on a truck?
- Use a standard 20ft flatbed trailer with ISO twistlocks. The sideopen door does not affect the containers ability to be secured to the chassis.
- Are there any restrictions on the cargo type?
- Dry cargo containers are intended for nonhazardous, nonperishable goods. For hazardous materials, a certified ISO tank container is required.
