If you are shipping what would be considered an oversize cargo, open top containers might be the best option for you. Here is a little bit more information and background on what open top containers are and how they can facilitate unique cargo management strategies.
What is Open Top Container?
As the name suggests, open top containers are just that….they are open on the top and do not have a solid roof. Tarps can be used to cover the top if needed or it can be left uncovered, depending the configuration and type of cargo. They have steel sides and doors with a wood floor. You will find these types of containers in 20 ft. and 40 ft. configurations.
Applications of Open Top Container
Large and irregular shaped equipment are one of the most popular cargoes loaded into open top containers. They are often times too large and heavy to load through the doors of a regular container but can be placed in an open top container with a heavy duty crane capable of placing the load through the open top. The cargo can then be secured for transit by utilizing the lashing rings that are part of the container.
How much will Open Top Container cost?
As one might expect, pricing for cargo on an open top container will usually be more expensive that goods traveling on regular, closed top containers. This will be especially true if your cargo is extending above the top of the sides. Oversized cargo of this sort will cost more as the carrier will be limited on where the container needs to be placed within the ship since another container cannot be place on top of the open top. Since space is the main cost driver for ocean freight, odd shapes will take up more of that space and incur higher costs.
Open Top Container Dimensions
As mentioned earlier, open top containers come in 20 and 40 ft. configurations. The inside lengths are 19.4 ft. and 39.5 feet while the internal widths are 7.8 ft. for both types. The walls of the container are 8 ft. high. Because the tare weight of the 20 ft. containers is less than the larger 40 ft. model, the payload capacity of the 20 ft. option is slightly higher, at 62,000 lbs. versus the 40 ft. option with a maximum load of 58,000 lbs.
If an open top container is a potentially good option for your cargo, we will be happy to review your needs and come up with a solution that is cost competitive while ensuring easy on-off loading and unloading of your equipment. Our professional staff at Eagles Air & Sea will guide you through the process to find the best option to move your cargo safely and expeditiously.
If you have further question, the professionals at Eagles Air & Sea can help you to find the right shipping configuration for your specific requirements. We are available 24/7 either by email at sales@eagles.com or call our phone +662 790 4599.
