Open top container in dubai

Types of Open Top Container in Dubai

Open-top containers are intermodal freight containers that can be loaded or unloaded from the top. They are usually used for transporting bulky and heavy goods that cannot fit into standard container dimensions. Open-top containers in Dubai are available in different sizes and types, including;

• Steel and aluminum containers

  Open-top containers are made from steel or aluminum. Steel containers are the most common and are used for various purposes. They are durable and strong, making them ideal for shipping heavy cargo. On the other hand, aluminum containers are lightweight and resistant to corrosion. As a result, they are suitable for applications where weight is a crucial factor. For instance, they can be used in shipping and fishing.

• 20-foot and 40-foot containers

  Open top containers come in different lengths, with the 20 and 40-foot containers being the most common. The 20-foot containers are ideal for shipping smaller cargo, while the 40-foot containers are suitable for shipping larger cargo.

• Collapsible containers

  Collapsible containers are designed to be disassembled and collapsed, which is essential for optimizing storage space. They are usually used in logistics and supply chain management.

Specifications and Maintenance of Open Top Container in Dubai

Open top containers are standard dry freight containers with a roof that is either removable or retractable. They are primarily used for transporting heavy and large cargo that cannot fit into a standard container. Here are the specifications and maintenance requirements of open-top containers in Dubai.

Specifications

• Dimensions

  The length and width of open-top containers vary depending on the unit size. Common sizes include 20 feet and 40 feet. The height is also different from one unit to another. It ranges from 8.5 inches to 9.5 inches.

• Container walls

  The walls are made of sturdy steel and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. The wall thickness ranges between 1.5 mm to 6 mm.

• Container floor

  The floor is made of strong timber materials, such as TIL. It measures 28 mm to 30 mm thick. The flooring is designed to provide a stable foundation for cargo.

• Container roof

  The container roof is covered with a removable roof that is constructed using steel. It is designed to safeguard cargo during transport.

• Container corner posts

  The open-top containers have corner posts that are robust and made of steel. They are used to strengthen the containers and facilitate lifting and stacking.

• Container end walls

  The open-top containers have end walls at both ends. These walls provide additional security for the cargo.

Maintenance

• Regular inspections

  Regular inspections of open-top containers are essential for safety and cargo protection. This makes it easy to identify potential issues that may compromise safety or cargo protection. Here are the areas that need to be inspected; the roof, containers walls, container floor, door seals, and corner castings.

• Cleaning

  Dubai's sandy environment makes open-top containers prone to dirt and sand accumulation. Therefore, regular cleaning is necessary to prevent corrosion and maintain the container's appearance. The containers should be washed frequently, especially after a sandstorm. This removes dirt and debris from the roof, walls, and container floor.

• Rust prevention

  Open-top containers in Dubai are prone to corrosion and rust because of the harsh climate. Therefore, regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent rust and extend the life of the container. Some maintenance practices include applying protective coatings, using rust inhibitors, and removing the rust.

• load securing

  Load securing is an important aspect of open-top containers. Properly secured cargo minimizes movement, preventing damage or shifting during transit. Here are some load securing methods; using straps, using nets, and using block and bracing.

How to choose Open Top Containers in Dubai

There are many factors to consider when selecting the appropriate open-top container for a specific shipping requirement.

• Purpose:

  What is being transported? Is it bulky and tall? If yes, then an open-top container of 40 ft will be appropriate. But if it is something smaller, then a 20 ft open-top container will be adequate.

• Dimensions:

  Different sizes of open-top containers in Dubai are available, such as the 20-foot and 40-foot containers. The larger the container, the more cargo it can hold. However, this also means that it will take a longer time to load and offload, which will increase the cost of operation. The height of the container is also a crucial factor to consider. The standard height of an open-top container is about 8 feet, while a high-cube version is about 9.6 feet tall.

• Type of cargo:

  Different types of cargo require different types of containers. For instance, if the cargo being transported is perishable goods, then open-top containers are not ideal. In this case, refrigerated containers are required to maintain a specific temperature. Similarly, if the goods being transported are hazardous, then specialized containers are required to comply with safety regulations.

• Budget:

  Cost is an important factor to consider when selecting an open-top container. Larger containers are more expensive. Also, the type of container affects the price, with specialized containers being more costly due to their customizability.

• Loading and unloading:

  Accessibility is a crucial factor to consider when selecting an open-top container. If the container will be loaded from the side, then a container that has side doors is ideal. Also, the method of unloading and loading the cargo should be considered. For example, if the cargo requires the use of a crane, then a container with a removable roof is ideal.

• Security:

  Security is a vital concern when transporting goods. Open-top containers are less secure compared to closed containers. Therefore, if the cargo is valuable, then a closed container that will provide security is ideal.

How to DIY and Replace Open Top Container in Dubai

Replacing an open-top container can be a complex task that typically requires professional assistance, especially for large containers used for shipping or storage. However, if the container in question is a smaller one, such as a shipping container used for storage, there are some general guidelines that can be followed.

Here are the steps to DIY and replace an open-top container:

• Assess the Situation

  Determine why the container needs to be replaced. Is it damaged, or has it deteriorated over time? Assess the contents' safety and integrity during the replacement process.

• Choose the New Container

  Select a new open-top container that meets the requirements of the old one in terms of size, capacity, and condition. Consider factors such as the container's age, corrosion, and structural integrity.

• Plan the Replacement

  Develop a plan for the replacement process. This includes scheduling the replacement when the weather is favorable and ensuring that there is enough manpower to handle the operation.

• Notify Relevant Parties

  Inform all relevant stakeholders about the replacement. This includes logistics providers, security personnel (for container yards), and anyone else involved in the operation.

• Prepare for the Move

  If the new container is to be delivered and opened, ensure that the site is prepared. This includes clearing the area, ensuring access for delivery trucks, and setting up for the new container's placement.

• Transfer the Contents

  The contents of the old container will need to be transferred to the new one. This should be done systematically, and inventory control should be maintained to ensure nothing is lost or misplaced during the process.

• Security and Safety

  Ensure that the security and safety standards for storing containers are maintained throughout the process. This includes securing the new container until it is fully loaded and ensuring that safety regulations are followed during the transfer process.

• Environmental Considerations

  If the old container is being replaced due to environmental regulations, ensure that all relevant environmental considerations are taken into account during the replacement process.

• Documentation

  Keep records of the entire process, including planning, notifications, and transfers. This documentation can be important for safety, security, and compliance with regulations.

• Review and Evaluate

  After the replacement is completed, review and evaluate the process. Identify any issues that arose and consider improvements for future replacements.

Q&A

Q1: How are open top containers transported?

A1: Open-top containers are transported like regular containers. They are loaded onto ships, trains, and trucks using cranes and specialized equipment. The fact that they are open at the top does not affect their handling during transport.

Q2: Are there any additional security measures for open-top containers?

A2: Yes, because of their open design, additional security measures are taken. These can include securing the cargo with robust tarps, nets, and stronger locks and monitoring the container's location in real-time.

Q3: What types of cargo are suitable for open-top containers?

A3: Open-top containers are ideal for cargo that is too tall to fit within standard containers, such as large machinery, construction equipment, and tall building materials. They are also suitable for goods that require easy overhead access, such as certain types of industrial equipment.

Q4: What are the sizes of open-top containers?

A4: Open-top containers come in different sizes, including 20-foot and 40-foot lengths, which are the most common. The dimensions of an open-top container can vary depending on the manufacturer, but they are designed to international shipping standards.