Easy Top Loading
Perfect for cargo that can’t be loaded through standard doors, such as tall pipes, steel beams, or industrial machinery.
Open Top Containers
Open Top Containers – Flexible Shipping & Storage for Oversized Cargo
At SCS Australia, we provide Open Top Containers that are purpose-built for transporting and storing oversized, tall, or awkwardly shaped cargo that doesn’t fit into standard shipping containers.
With a removable tarpaulin roof and reinforced steel end frames, open tops allow cargo to be loaded from above using cranes or forklifts. This makes them the ideal solution for industries moving construction materials, heavy machinery, timber, mining equipment, and over-height cargo.
We supply both new and used open top containers for sale and offer flexible hire options for short-term or long-term projects. With Australia-wide delivery, SCSAU ensures your cargo is moved securely, efficiently, and in full compliance with international standards.
Why SCS Australia
Why Choose an Open Top Container?
Unlike standard containers with fixed steel roofs, Open Top Containers feature a removable tarpaulin cover with roof bows. This design gives users full overhead access, which is essential when moving cargo that cannot be loaded through conventional container doors.
This overhead loading option significantly reduces handling time and provides safe, practical solutions for large-scale industries.
Open Top Containers
Key Benefits of Open Top Containers
Extra Height Capacity
Accommodates equipment and goods that exceed the height limits of standard containers.
Durable & Secure
Heavy-duty tarpaulin is weather-resistant, while the steel construction ensures structural strength.
Flexible Options
Available in 20ft and 40ft sizes, new or used, for both sale and hire.
Transport Ready
CSC-plated and fully certified for international sea freight, road, and rail transport.
New and used
Find Open Top Shipping Containers for Sale
At SCS Australia, our new and used open top shipping containers offer large storage capacity with the convenience of overhead loading. Designed for both commercial and industrial projects, they are available for:
- Sale – A long-term, cost-effective solution for businesses with regular oversized cargo requirements.
- Hire – Flexible short-term hire options, perfect for seasonal projects, events, or one-off transport needs.
Get in touch with our team today to request a quote and explore the right container option for your business.
Sizes and specs
Standard Open Top Container Sizes & Dimensions
We offer both 20ft and 40ft open top containers, designed to meet international ISO standards.
| Container Type | External Dimensions (L x W x H) | Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) | Capacity (Approx.) | Tare Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Open Top | 6.06m x 2.44m x 2.59m | 5.89m x 2.35m x 2.38m | 32–33 m³ | ~2,250 kg |
| 40ft Open Top | 12.19m x 2.44m x 2.59m | 12.03m x 2.35m x 2.38m | 66–67 m³ | ~3,850 kg |
High cube open top containers also available on request.
Open Top Containers
20ft & 40ft Open Top Containers
- Compact yet versatile.
- Ideal for steel, timber, or construction materials.
- Great resale value with options in new or used condition.
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- Maximum internal capacity for bulk cargo.
- Equipped with a removable tarpaulin roof, making them perfect for over-height machinery and industrial components.
- Available in both general purpose (GP) and high cube (HC) models.
Customisation
Hardtop or Soft Top Options
Open Top Containers are available with either soft tarpaulin covers or hard roof systems:
- Soft Top (Tarpaulin Cover) – Lightweight, waterproof, and secured with bows and lashing rings. Easy to remove for loading and unloading.
- Hard Top – Offers additional security and protection against theft, while maintaining full overhead access.
Both options are stackable like standard containers, making them efficient for storage and freight.
Featured
Popular Uses of Open Top Containers
Open tops are widely used across industries for their versatility:
Construction Industry
Transport steel beams, scaffolding, timber, or pre-fabricated panels.
Mining & Heavy Equipment
Move drilling rigs, mining parts, and large machinery.
Manufacturing & Engineering
Ship oversized industrial equipment and plant components.
Logistics & Freight Forwarding
Enable fast crane loading and efficient cargo turnover.
Agriculture & Farming
Store or move tractors, harvesters, and bulky farm supplies.
Customisation
Modifications & Custom Features
We can modify open top containers to meet your project’s specific requirements. Options include:
Removable tarpaulin roof with heavy-duty bows
for secure overhead loading.
Additional lashing rings
to improve cargo securing.
Side access or roller doors
for added convenience.
Internal flooring upgrades
for heavy or high-wear cargo.
Custom paint and branding
to match your company’s identity.
By tailoring modifications, we ensure your container not only meets compliance but also maximises operational efficiency.
Open Top Containers
Open Top vs Flat Rack Containers – Which is Right for You?
While Open Top Containers are ideal for goods requiring overhead access and moderate over-height cargo, they aren’t always the best choice for every load.
- Open Tops – Suitable when cargo needs protection from the elements. Once loaded, the tarpaulin roof or hard top is secured, making them weatherproof and stackable.
- Flat Racks – A better choice for extremely tall or irregular goods that won’t fit even with a tarpaulin roof. Flat racks offer a fully open design with no roof and higher payload capacities.
Our team can help assess your cargo and recommend whether an Open Top or Flat Rack Container is best for your project.
New and used
Open Top Containers for Sale or Hire
At SCS Australia, we make it simple to access the right solution for your project:
- Buy Open Top Containers – Best for companies with ongoing transport or storage requirements.
- Hire Open Top Containers – Flexible, cost-effective choice for temporary needs.
We deliver nationwide, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Newcastle, Wollongong, and regional areas.
Why SCS Australia
Why Choose SCS Australia for Open Top Containers?
Trusted Supplier
With decades of experience in container solutions, we are trusted by industries nationwide.
Certified & Compliant
All containers are CSC-plated and meet international ISO standards.
Flexible Options
Buy or hire, new or used, with sizes to suit every project.
Customisation Experts
From lashing points to roller doors, we offer modifications tailored to your needs.
Nationwide Delivery
From metro hubs to remote sites, we deliver on time, every time.
Delivery
Delivery Across Australia
Our logistics team provides fast, reliable delivery Australia-wide, using tilt trays, semi-trailers, and HIAB cranes to place containers exactly where you need them.
Whether at a port, industrial site, construction project, or agricultural yard, your container will be positioned safely and ready for immediate use.
Ready to Enquire?
Contact us today for a free quote or visit our Newcastle display site to see what we can do. Let’s build something that fits your lifestyle.