Finding an open side shipping container for sale might not be your everyday search. These specialized units can be a game-changer for businesses that need unique storage solutions. The containers measure 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet 6 inches tall. Their door opening spans an impressive 19 feet 2 inches wide and 7 feet 2 inches tall – a big leap from standard containers.
The benefits of side opening containers are remarkable. They can handle items between 8 and 38 feet wide, which makes them ideal for oversized cargo that won’t fit through regular end doors. The specialized design doubles the price compared to standard models. A 40-foot version typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000.
Side opening shipping containers are perfect for businesses that handle palletized goods or need forklift access. They provide full-length access that makes loading and unloading a breeze. High cube versions add an extra foot of vertical space. This creates more room for forklifts to operate inside the container.
We’ve created a detailed buyer’s guide to help you pick the right storage solution. You’ll find everything from pricing details to customization choices. FTShippingContainers.com offers these containers with free shipping on your order.
“One of the best things about open sided shipping containers for sale is just how much easier they make loading and unloading. Traditional containers require careful planning—you have to load items in order because the doors are only at the ends. But open-sided containers let you access everything from the side, which means there’s no need to play Tetris to get your items in and out.” — Aztec Container, Major U.S. shipping container supplier
Open side shipping containers stand apart from standard ones with their full-length doors running along one longer side. These units give complete side access while keeping the same reliable, weatherproof build as traditional containers. open side shipping container for sale
Standard shipping containers come with double doors at one end, which limits how you can reach your stored items. Side opening containers are different – they feature bi-fold doors that run the entire length of one side. This design change brings huge benefits in ground applications. You must unload standard containers in a first-in-last-out order, but side opening units let you grab items from anywhere inside right away. Traditional containers often need complete emptying to reach items at the back, but open side units make this hassle disappear.
Open side containers have transformed many industries. Retail businesses turn them into pop-up shops, mobile showrooms, and exhibition spaces. Construction and industrial sites keep their tools, equipment, and materials secure yet easy to reach. Farmers find them perfect to store feed, equipment, and harvest with simple ground-level access.
These containers excel in:
Side access makes loading much faster and easier. Large items that won’t squeeze through standard end doors fit easily through the full-length opening. Forklifts can load and unload pallets directly from the side, which speeds up handling by a lot. You won’t need to unpack everything just to reach specific items stored inside.
FTShippingContainers.com sells these specialized units with free shipping. They cost more than standard containers but are available to anyone looking to buy an open side shipping container.
Image Source: Cleveland Containers
Side opening containers are unique because of their special dimensions and features that let you access cargo from the entire side instead of just the end. These containers are available in different sizes to meet specific storage and transport requirements.
The 20ft side opening container has external measurements of 6058mm (20ft) length, 2438mm (8ft) width, and 2591mm (8ft 6in) height. Inside, you get 5898mm (19ft 4in) length, 2288mm (7ft 8in) width, and 2299mm (7ft 9in) height.
The 40ft model stretches to 12192mm (40ft) on the outside while keeping the same width and height as its 20ft counterpart. If you need extra height, the 40ft High Cube version stands at 2896mm (9ft 6in) tall – perfect for taller items.
Storage capacity ranges from 31m³ in 20ft containers to 67.4m³ in 40ft models, giving you plenty of room for storage.
The full-length side access door system makes these containers special. The side door splits into four sections, with two panels opening to the left and two to the right. You can open just a quarter of the side or the whole length based on your needs.
Each door features secure locks that work with padlocks. Some rental units add extra security with welded protective cases over the locks.
These containers use tough marine-grade wooden or bamboo floors built to handle heavy loads. Standard ventilation valves keep the temperature balanced and stop condensation buildup inside.
The forklift accessibility is a key benefit. Forklifts can load and unload directly from the side without entering the container, which protects both the equipment and floor from damage. Most models include forklift pockets to make moving the container easier.
FTShippingContainers.com sells these specialized containers and includes free shipping with your purchase.
“Open-sided containers transform into attractive, functional spaces that draw a crowd. With simple modifications, they become the ultimate pop-up shop or vendor booth—especially in vibrant cities like Austin and Dallas.” — West Gulf Container, Industry-leading shipping container supplier
Open side shipping containers have clear structural advantages and some hidden benefits that make them a smart investment. Here’s what you should know if you’re thinking about buying an open side shipping container.
The side opening feature changes everything about handling big items. Items between 8-38 feet wide fit easily into these containers. This design helps industries that move machinery, large pallets, and oddly shaped cargo. The risk of damage goes down when loading and unloading, which keeps valuable equipment safe from accidents.
These containers make warehouse operations run smoother. The design makes storing palletized materials simple. Forklifts can access goods directly without going inside the container. This setup:
Side openings create a better working environment inside. The openings bring in fresh air, which makes the space more comfortable to work in. Fresh air helps keep humidity down and stops moisture from damaging stored goods. Workers find it easier to manage inventory and find items with the extra daylight coming in.
Retail businesses love these specialized containers. Wide-opening doors create an attractive storefront where products stand out. Large open-side units work great for tourist spots that sell quick refreshments and need covered space from summer heat. You can lock up the entire side when closed, giving you security and flexibility for temporary shops. open side shipping container for sale
Businesses that need frequent inventory access save time with these containers. Workers can open the side doors and grab what they need instead of searching through a dark container or moving things around. Construction sites, event managers, and warehouse teams find this a great way to save time.
You can get these containers at FTShippingContainers.com and they’ll ship them to you free.
Understanding the cost factors and customization options of open side shipping containers helps you make economical decisions. The market has containers of all types at different price points that depend on your specific needs and budget.
New and used side opening containers show significant price differences. A new open side 20ft container costs around $4,000 [link_1], while 40ft versions can reach up to $7,500. Budget-conscious buyers can find great value in used open side containers. The 20ft units start at approximately $2,500, and 40ft models begin around $4,500.
You can find a 20ft open side container at FTShippingContainers.com for just $1,295. This price makes it one of the most affordable options available. The container’s condition affects these price variations. “One-trip” containers come with premium prices because they have minimal wear and are almost new.
The container purchase pays off over time. You make a one-time investment instead of paying recurring monthly warehouse rental fees. These containers provide years of service.
Open side containers give you extensive customization choices. The door options include roll-up doors that save space and provide wide access without taking up extra ground space. You can install 33.5-inch wide personnel doors anywhere on the container for easy daily access.
Beyond doors, these containers can be equipped with:
Buying from FTShippingContainers.com comes with several benefits. The company ships containers worldwide at no cost. A tilt bed truck handles the delivery. The driver tilts the bed, places your container on the ground, and drives out from underneath.
Your purchase includes warranty protection. Cargo-worthy containers come with a 6-month warranty, while refurbished units get 1-year coverage. The website makes shopping easy with clear container categories and transparent pricing.
The company offers financing through mutually beneficial alliances with financial service providers. These options let you make flexible payments with minimal upfront investment.
Our review of open side shipping containers shows why these specialized units help businesses transform their storage and transportation needs. The full-length access helps companies handle oversized cargo and palletized goods better. Your team won’t face the frustrating first-in-last-out limits of standard containers anymore.
Open side containers cost more than regular models. The long-term benefits make up for the higher price tag quickly. Your team saves time with direct side access to inventory. Your oversized equipment stays safer during loading and unloading. These advantages cut costs over time.
The container’s versatility stands out above all else. These units adapt to many business needs – from pop-up retail shops to construction site storage, agricultural work to industrial equipment housing. They keep the same durability and weather resistance as standard shipping containers.
Not sure if an open side container fits your business? Look at how often your team needs stored materials. Think about whether you handle bulky items and if speed matters in daily work. The answers should point to side access benefits.
FTShippingContainers.com stocks both new and used open side containers at great prices. Free shipping comes with every purchase – a huge plus for your budget. Their delivery process runs smoothly. Warranty options and financing plans make getting your ideal container easy.
Open side shipping containers prove a smart investment. Businesses get flexible, secure, and ready storage. The price difference fades fast against years of better operations and expanded capabilities.
Q1. What are the main advantages of open side shipping containers? Open side containers offer easy loading of oversized cargo, full-length access for palletized goods, improved ventilation and natural light, versatility for pop-up shops, and faster access for daily operations. These features significantly enhance efficiency and flexibility in various industries.
Q2. How do open side containers differ from standard shipping containers? The key difference is the full-length side door. While standard containers only open at one end, open side containers feature doors along the entire length of one side, allowing complete lateral access to the interior space. This design dramatically improves accessibility and loading efficiency.
Q3. What sizes are available for open side shipping containers? Open side containers typically come in 20ft and 40ft lengths. The 20ft version measures about 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet tall externally. The 40ft model extends to 40 feet in length while maintaining similar width and height. High cube variants offer additional vertical space. open side shipping container for sale
Q4. Are open side containers more expensive than standard containers? Yes, open side containers generally cost more than standard models due to their specialized design. New 20ft open side containers can cost around $4,000, while 40ft versions may reach up to $7,500. However, used units are available at lower prices, starting from about $2,500 for a 20ft container.
Q5. Can open side containers be customized? Absolutely. Open side containers offer extensive customization options. These include various door types (like roll-up doors), personnel doors, custom paint colors, electrical and plumbing systems, shelving, partitions, HVAC systems, and security enhancements. This flexibility allows businesses to tailor the containers to their specific needs.