Types of Double Open Side Containers
Double open side containers, also known as open-side containers, provide an innovative solution for storing and transporting large, bulky goods. With doors that open on both sides, they offer exceptional accessibility for efficient loading and unloading operations. These specialized shipping containers have become increasingly popular in various industries due to their versatility and convenience.
20ft Double Open Side Container
The 20ft double open side container offers unprecedented accessibility with full-length opening doors on both sides. This design eliminates access restrictions, making it ideal for construction sites and temporary storage solutions.
- Door Width: Approximately 2.4m
- Door Height: 2.39m
- Best Use: Construction sites, retail inventory, and goods requiring frequent access
Key Benefit: Easy loading/unloading from both sides, perfect for confined spaces
40ft Double Open Side Container
The 40ft double open side container provides expansive storage capacity with the added benefit of bilateral access. This configuration dramatically improves logistics efficiency for large-scale operations.
- Capacity: Double the volume of 20ft containers
- Access: Full-length opening on both sides
- Best Use: Large goods, manufacturing equipment, and bulky inventory
Key Benefit: Maximum storage space with flexible loading options
40ft HC Double Open Side Container
The 40ft High Cube (HC) double open side container combines increased height with bilateral access, creating an optimal solution for oversized cargo and high-volume storage needs.
- Construction: Hard-wearing steel for enhanced durability
- Height: Additional interior height compared to standard containers
- Best Use: Heavy machinery, tall equipment, and high-volume inventory
Key Benefit: Maximum interior height and dual-side access for oversized items
30ft Double Open Side Container
The 30ft double open side container offers a balanced compromise between the 20ft and 40ft options, providing versatility for medium-sized cargo requirements.
- Versatility: Ideal middle-ground solution
- Access: Dual-side opening for flexible handling
- Best Use: Specialized transportation needs and medium-sized inventory
Key Benefit: Perfect balance of capacity and maneuverability
Industry Insight: Double open side containers have gained significant popularity in the construction industry, where they serve as both secure storage and easily accessible material stations at job sites. Their dual-access design minimizes the need for material handling and reduces labor costs.
Specifications and Maintenance of Double Open Side Containers
| Specification | 20ft Container | 30ft Container | 40ft Container | 40ft HC Container |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| External Length | 6.058m (19'10½") | 9.125m (29'11") | 12.032m (39'5¾") | 12.032m (39'5¾") |
| External Width | 2.438m (8') | 2.438m (8') | 2.438m (8') | 2.438m (8') |
| External Height | 2.591m (8'6") | 2.591m (8'6") | 2.591m (8'6") | 2.896m (9'6") |
| Tare Weight | 1,500-2,200 kg | 2,200-3,000 kg | 3,500-3,800 kg | 3,700-4,000 kg |
| Maximum Capacity | 33,000 kg | 45,000 kg | 67,000 kg | 67,000 kg |
| Volume | ~27-33 cubic meters | ~40-45 cubic meters | ~60-67 cubic meters | ~75-86 cubic meters |
Container Structure Features
Robust Construction
Built with high-grade steel for maximum durability and protection against environmental damage. The reinforced framework ensures structural integrity even when fully loaded.
Weather Protection
Engineered to be watertight and weatherproof, with specialized sealing systems around doors and openings to protect cargo from moisture, dust, and extreme conditions.
Stackable Design
Equipped with standardized corner posts and castings that facilitate secure stacking and various lifting operations during transport and storage.
Side Access
Full-length doors on both sides provide unparalleled access to the container's contents, dramatically improving loading efficiency and reducing handling time.
Essential Maintenance Checklist
- Perform regular rust and corrosion inspections, particularly at seams, corners, and door hinges
- Verify door seals and gaskets are intact to prevent water ingress and moisture damage
- Keep container interiors clean and dry to prevent mold growth and material degradation
- Inspect and repair any structural damage immediately to prevent further deterioration
- Examine door gaskets frequently on containers with high usage rates, replacing as needed
- Lubricate door hinges and locking mechanisms quarterly for smooth operation
- Check floor integrity to ensure it can support the intended load without sagging
- Apply protective coatings or paint as needed to maintain exterior protection
Important Safety Notice: Regular maintenance is not just about preserving your investment—it's critical for operational safety. Failing to address damaged door mechanisms or structural weaknesses can lead to cargo damage, workplace injuries, and costly downtime.
How to Choose Double Open Side Containers
Selecting the optimal double open side container requires careful consideration of several critical factors. This comprehensive selection guide will help you identify the perfect container for your specific operational needs and budget constraints.
Selection Criteria Priority Chart
| Selection Factor | Priority Level | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose & Use Case | Critical | Shipping, storage, equipment housing, or retail space |
| Size Requirements | Critical | Cargo dimensions, volume needs, and site space limitations |
| Accessibility Needs | High | Frequency of access, loading equipment requirements |
| Security Considerations | High | Cargo value, location security, additional locking systems |
| Transportation Methods | Medium | Rail, truck, ship compatibility and handling requirements |
| Customization Options | Medium | Shelving, lighting, ventilation, and specialized modifications |
| Material & Durability | High | Environment exposure, expected lifespan, corrosion resistance |
| Budget Constraints | Variable | Purchase vs. lease options, new vs. used condition |
| Ventilation Requirements | Variable | Cargo type, climate conditions, moisture sensitivity |
Expert Recommendation: When evaluating your container needs, consider not just your current requirements but also potential future applications. Investing in a slightly larger container or one with additional features may provide long-term value by accommodating business growth and evolving operational needs.
New vs. Used Containers
New containers offer pristine condition, manufacturer warranties, and maximum lifespan, but at premium prices. Used containers provide significant cost savings with acceptable condition for many applications, though they may require more frequent maintenance.
Decision Factor: Balance budget constraints against condition requirements and intended usage duration
Purchase vs. Rental
Purchasing offers long-term cost advantages for extended use cases and allows for customization. Renting provides flexibility, minimal upfront investment, and eliminates maintenance responsibilities for temporary or uncertain duration needs.
Decision Factor: Project timeline certainty and capital expenditure considerations
How to DIY and Replace Double Open Side Containers
Proper maintenance and operation of double open side containers are essential for maximizing their service life and ensuring safe, efficient cargo handling. The following comprehensive guidelines will help you implement effective maintenance procedures and operational best practices.
Pre-Use Inspection Protocol
Implementing a thorough inspection routine before using your container is crucial for identifying potential issues before they become serious problems. This proactive approach helps maintain container integrity and cargo safety.
- Thoroughly examine exterior surfaces for rust patches, dents, and structural damage
- Inspect door hinges, locking mechanisms, and gaskets for proper function and sealing
- Check interior surfaces for moisture, mold, pest evidence, and floor integrity
- Verify corner castings and lifting points for structural soundness if container will be moved
- Document all findings with photographs and written records for maintenance tracking
Safe Loading & Unloading Procedures
Proper handling techniques during loading and unloading operations not only protect your cargo but also prevent damage to the container structure and ensure workplace safety.
- Assess cargo weight distribution to prevent floor stress and container imbalance
- Use appropriate lifting equipment rated for the cargo weight being handled
- Implement secure cargo tie-down methods to prevent shifting during transport
- Maintain clear access paths and proper lighting during loading operations
- Train personnel on proper lifting techniques and equipment operation
Climate Control Management
For containers storing sensitive cargo or those in extreme environments, implementing effective climate control measures is essential for preserving cargo integrity and preventing container deterioration.
- Install digital monitoring systems for real-time temperature and humidity tracking
- Implement appropriate ventilation solutions based on cargo requirements
- Consider desiccant systems for humidity control in high-moisture environments
- Properly size climate control equipment to avoid system strain and failure
- Establish regular monitoring schedules with alert thresholds for critical parameters
Replacement Consideration: When container repair costs exceed 50% of replacement value, or when structural integrity is significantly compromised, replacement is often more economical than continued repairs. Always consult with a container specialist before making major repair investments on aging containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Double open side containers provide exceptional accessibility with doors that open on both long sides of the container. This design revolutionizes cargo handling by enabling:
- Loading and unloading from either side, eliminating the need to rearrange cargo for access
- Efficient handling of long or awkward items that would be difficult to maneuver through standard end doors
- Reduced loading/unloading time and associated labor costs
- Improved workplace safety by minimizing manual handling and providing multiple access points
- Versatile application in scenarios where side access is advantageous or necessary
This design makes them particularly valuable for construction sites, retail operations, manufacturing facilities, and any application where frequent or rapid access to contents is required.
Effective maintenance of double open side containers requires a systematic approach focusing on several key areas:
- Regular Cleaning: Wash interior and exterior surfaces to remove dirt, salt, and contaminants that accelerate corrosion
- Corrosion Prevention: Apply appropriate protective coatings to vulnerable areas and address rust spots immediately
- Door System Maintenance: Lubricate hinges, inspect gaskets, and verify locking mechanisms function properly
- Weather Sealing: Regularly test water-tightness and repair compromised seals to prevent moisture ingress
- Structural Inspection: Check for deformation, cracks, or damage to the container frame and repair promptly
- Floor Maintenance: Inspect flooring for damage, water retention, or structural weakening
Implementing a scheduled maintenance program with detailed documentation helps extend container lifespan and ensures operational reliability.
Yes, double open side containers are designed to be fully compatible with standard container transportation systems, though with some special considerations:
- They feature standard corner castings that align with conventional lifting and securing equipment
- Their dimensions comply with ISO standards, making them compatible with ships, trucks, and trains
- The side doors include robust locking mechanisms designed to remain secure during transport
- Special attention must be paid to door sealing and securing before transportation
- Weight distribution requires careful planning due to the structural differences from standard containers
While transportable like standard containers, operators should follow manufacturer guidelines for securing side doors during transit to prevent damage or accidents.
Double open side containers typically command a price premium over standard shipping containers due to several factors:
- More complex structural engineering to maintain integrity while supporting large side openings
- Additional door hardware, including specialized hinges, locking mechanisms, and sealing systems
- Increased manufacturing complexity and material requirements
- Lower production volumes resulting in fewer economies of scale
- Higher value proposition due to increased operational flexibility and efficiency
While initial acquisition costs are higher, the operational benefits often justify the investment through improved efficiency, reduced handling time, and enhanced functionality. The typical price premium ranges from 30-60% above standard containers of equivalent size.
Double open side containers are particularly advantageous for specific cargo types and operational scenarios:
- Long Items: Lumber, pipe, structural steel, and other materials that exceed the width of standard container doors
- Heavy Machinery: Equipment that requires crane access from multiple angles during loading and unloading
- Retail Merchandise: Products that benefit from side-aisle picking and loading/unloading efficiency
- Construction Materials: Building supplies that require frequent access throughout project phases
- Agricultural Products: Crops and equipment that need ventilation and easy access
- Exhibition Materials: Display components that benefit from wide-access loading and unloading
Any application where loading/unloading efficiency, frequent access, or handling of oversized items is important will benefit from double open side container capabilities.