Open Top (OT) Containers: Your Guide to Oversized Cargo Shipping

What is an Open Top (OT) Container?

An Open Top (OT) container is a specialised shipping container designed for cargo that is too tall to be loaded through the doors of a standard container. Unlike conventional containers with a fixed steel roof, OT containers feature a removable tarpaulin or canvas cover, allowing goods to be loaded from the top using cranes or other lifting equipment. This makes them indispensable for transporting oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped items that wouldn't fit into a standard sea freight container.

At Ocean Cargo, we frequently utilise Open Top containers to facilitate the seamless movement of challenging cargo, ensuring that even the most unconventional shipments reach their destination safely and efficiently.

Key Features and Benefits of Open Top Containers

Understanding the unique characteristics of Open Top containers is crucial for businesses dealing with specific types of cargo. Here are their primary features and the advantages they offer:

• Removable Tarpaulin Roof: The defining feature, allowing vertical loading. This heavy-duty cover protects cargo from the elements during transit.
• Steel Construction: Like standard containers, OT containers are built from robust steel, providing excellent structural integrity and protection for goods.
• End Doors: Most Open Top containers also have end doors, offering flexibility for loading smaller items or for situations where top-loading isn't feasible.
• Lashing Rings: Numerous lashing rings are strategically placed inside the container to secure cargo firmly, preventing movement and damage during transit.
• Versatility: Ideal for a wide range of industries, from construction and Manufacturing to energy and Automotive.
• Cost-Effectiveness: For oversized cargo, an OT container can be a more economical solution than flat racks or breakbulk shipping, especially if the cargo's width and length fit within standard dimensions.

Common Cargo Types Shipped in Open Top Containers

Open Top containers are the go-to solution for a variety of goods that exceed the height limitations of standard containers. Ocean Cargo regularly handles the following types of cargo using OT containers:

• Machinery and Equipment: Large Industrial Machinery, Manufacturing equipment, generators, and pumps.
• Construction Materials: Oversized pipes, steel beams, pre-fabricated structures, and heavy-duty construction tools.
• Vehicles and Parts: Large vehicles, excavators, diggers, and oversized vehicle components. For example, we have extensive experience shipping excavators and diggers to the UAE.
• Project Cargo: Components for wind turbines, power plants, and other large-scale infrastructure projects. Transporting sensitive wind turbine components to Australia requires specialist project logistics.
• Raw Materials: Large bundles of timber, metal coils, or other bulk materials that require top-loading.

Standard Dimensions of Open Top Containers

Open Top containers typically come in 20-foot and 40-foot lengths, mirroring standard container sizes. However, their internal height is the critical factor for oversized cargo. While exact dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers, here are the general specifications:

20-Foot Open Top Container (20' OT)

• External Dimensions (approx.): 20' L x 8' W x 8'6" H (6.10m L x 2.44m W x 2.59m H)
• Internal Dimensions (approx.): 19'4" L x 7'8" W x 7'8" H (5.89m L x 2.34m W x 2.34m H)
• Door Opening (approx.): 7'8" W x 7'5" H (2.34m W x 2.26m H)
• Max Gross Weight (approx.): 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg)
• Tare Weight (approx.): 5,070 lbs (2,300 kg)
• Payload Capacity (approx.): 62,130 lbs (28,180 kg)

40-Foot Open Top Container (40' OT)

• External Dimensions (approx.): 40' L x 8' W x 8'6" H (12.19m L x 2.44m W x 2.59m H)
• Internal Dimensions (approx.): 39'5" L x 7'8" W x 7'8" H (12.03m L x 2.34m W x 2.34m H)
• Door Opening (approx.): 7'8" W x 7'5" H (2.34m W x 2.26m H)
• Max Gross Weight (approx.): 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg)
• Tare Weight (approx.): 8,380 lbs (3,800 kg)
• Payload Capacity (approx.): 58,820 lbs (26,680 kg)

It's important to note that while the internal height is listed, the actual cargo height can often exceed this, as the tarpaulin can be secured over the top of the cargo, provided it's within safe and legal limits for road and sea transport. This is known as "out of gauge" (OOG) cargo, and it requires careful planning and specific permits.

Shipping with Open Top Containers: What You Need to Know

Shipping oversized cargo in an Open Top container involves several considerations to ensure a smooth and compliant process. Ocean Cargo provides expert guidance every step of the way:

1. Cargo Assessment and Planning

Before anything else, a thorough assessment of your cargo's dimensions, weight, and specific handling requirements is essential. This determines if an OT container is the most suitable option or if alternatives like flat racks or breakbulk might be better. Our team will help you evaluate the best solution for your unique shipment.

2. Loading and Securing

The primary advantage of an OT container is top-loading. Cargo is typically lifted by crane directly into the container. Proper lashing and securing are paramount to prevent shifting during transit. This often involves using heavy-duty straps, chains, and dunnage to brace the cargo against the container walls and floor. Ocean Cargo ensures that all loading and securing procedures adhere to international safety standards.

3. Tarpaulin and Sealing

Once loaded, the tarpaulin cover is securely fastened over the top of the container. This cover is designed to be weather-resistant, protecting your goods from rain, sea spray, and other environmental factors. Proper sealing is critical to maintain cargo integrity.

4. Out of Gauge (OOG) Considerations

If your cargo exceeds the standard height of the container, it's classified as "out of gauge." This requires special permits, route planning, and potentially additional costs for road transport and port handling. Ocean Cargo's dedicated project cargo team specialises in managing OOG shipments, ensuring all regulatory requirements are met, whether you're shipping to Canada or the USA.

5. Customs and Documentation

Just like any international shipment, Open Top container cargo requires precise customs documentation and compliance. Our customs compliance experts handle all necessary paperwork, ensuring smooth clearance and avoiding costly delays.

Why Choose Ocean Cargo for Your Open Top Container Shipments?

Navigating the complexities of oversized cargo shipping requires expertise, precision, and a reliable partner. Ocean Cargo offers:

• Specialised Expertise: Over 25 years of experience in handling complex and oversized cargo, including extensive use of Open Top containers.
• Global Network: A robust network of partners and agents worldwide, ensuring seamless service from origin to destination.
• Tailored Solutions: We don't offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Our team works closely with you to understand your specific needs and design the most efficient and cost-effective shipping plan.
• Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation and cargo assessment to customs clearance and final delivery, we manage every aspect of your shipment.
• Transparency and Communication: We keep you informed at every stage, providing clear communication and proactive updates.

Whether you're shipping heavy machinery, large industrial components, or unique project cargo, Ocean Cargo is your trusted partner for Open Top container solutions. Our commitment to reliability, precision, and trust ensures your valuable goods are handled with the utmost care.