When it comes to shipping containers, the 40 foot side opening style is a great option for specific uses where a large opening is needed for transport.
Industries such as construction, automotive, and event logistics often utilize 40ft side opening containers for transporting large machinery, vehicles, or equipment that would be difficult to maneuver into a standard container
Design and Durability
These containers are designed for heavy-duty storage and transport. Made of corten steel, they're rust-resistant and built to last. The side doors provide easy access to your goods, and the container's reinforced structure means it can handle the pressure of stacked storage. With a payload of up to 28 tons, you'll have plenty of room for cargo.
Convenience
Side opening containers eliminate the hassle of unloading and reloading when you need to access your items. The double doors on one side swing open, giving you drive-through access to the entire space. This makes it ideal for frequent loading and offloading, or when you need to fit large equipment inside. The doors are also lockable for security.
Flexibility
These containers are highly versatile and can serve many purposes. Use them for storage, transport, a temporary office or workspace, or convert one into a container home. Their durable build and spacious interior lends itself well to creative repurposing. You can find containers with optional features like ventilation, lighting, flooring, and temperature control to suit your specific needs.
For their size and strength, shipping containers are an affordable storage solution. Side opening containers in particular provide exceptional space and accessibility for the money. If you're looking for an inexpensive yet high-capacity option for cargo, equipment, or materials, a 40 ft side opening container could be the perfect choice. With some upfront investment, it may end up saving you money in the long run.
Used shipping containers have lots of potential for customization. You can easily convert them into storage units, workshops, pop-up stores or even homes. Their solid steel construction makes them ideal for renovation projects.
By purchasing a used container, you’re reducing waste and the need for new materials. Containers can have several lives through reuse and recycling. Buying used helps minimize their environmental impact.
These steel containers are suitable for most general cargo. They feature double wing doors on one side that swing outwards for simple loading and unloading of palletized or loose cargo.
Also known as refrigerated containers, reefers have an integrated refrigeration unit to precisely control temperature. They are ideal for transporting perishable goods like food, plants, and chemicals. Reefers have double wing doors on one side as well as vents, fans, and a refrigeration unit.
Exterior Dimensions of 40 ft. Containers:
Type of Container | Height | Height (Metric) | Width | Width (Metric) | Length | Length (Metric) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard 20 foot Shipping Container | 8ft. 6in. | 2.59m | 8ft. | 2.44m | 40 ft. | 12.19 m |
High Cube 20 ft. Shipping Container | 9ft. 6in. | 2.89m | 8ft. | 2.44m | 40 ft. | 12.19 m |
Internal Dimensions of 40 ft. Containers:
Type of Container | Height | Height (Metric) | Width | Width (Metric) | Length | Length (Metric) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard 20 foot Shipping Container | 7ft. 10 in. | 2.38m. | 7ft. 8.5in. | 2.35m. | 39ft. 6in. | 12.02m. |
High Cube 20 ft. Shipping Container | 8ft. 9in. | 2.69m | 7ft. 8.5in. | 2.35m. | 39ft. 6in. | 12.02m. |
Volume of 40 ft. Containers:
Type of Container | Volume | Volume (Metric) |
---|---|---|
Standard 20 foot Shipping Container | 2,350 cubic ft. | 33 cubic meters |
High Cube 20 ft. Shipping Container | 2,694 cubic ft. | 76.3 cubic meters |
Weight of 40 ft. Containers:
Type of Container | Tare Weight (lbs) | Tare Weight (kg) | Max Cargo Weight (lbs) | Max Cargo Weight (kg) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Standard 20 foot Shipping Container | 8333.5 lbs | 3,780 kgs | 58,863.4 lbs | 26,700 kgs |
High Cube 20 ft. Shipping Container | 8862.6 lbs | 4,020 kgs | 58,334.3 lbs | 26,460 kgs |
Customization Options of 40 ft.
Side Opening Containers
Standard 20 ft side opening containers typically come in two sizes: 20ft and 40ft in length. The 20ft container provides 228 cubic meters of internal space while the 40ft container offers 380 cubic meters. For most small to midsize shipments, the 20ft container should suffice. However, for larger shipments, the additional space of the 40ft container would be advantageous.
The side opening containers are available with single or double doors. Double doors provide easier access to load and unload cargo. The doors typically open 270 degrees, allowing cargo to be accessed from both sides of the container. For hand loading smaller shipments, single doors may be adequate. However, for forklift loading of palletized goods, double doors are recommended.
Standard container flooring consists of laminated plywood. However, other options such as bamboo, aluminum and steel flooring can be requested. Aluminum and steel flooring provide greater durability for heavy equipment or cargo with wheels. Bamboo flooring offers an eco-friendly alternative but may not withstand as much weight as aluminum or steel. For most general cargo, plywood flooring should suit the needs.
Container ramps provide easy access into and out of the container during loading and unloading. Ramps are available as collapsible or fixed. Collapsible ramps fold up for easy storage and transportation. Fixed ramps offer a permanent solution but take up more space. Ramps can be installed on the container doors or on the side of the container for side access. Ramps are an excellent option if forklift or heavy equipment access is required.
Containers can be modified or customized for specific cargo needs. Options include shelving installation, lighting, temperature control, floor reinforcements and more. Side opening containers can also have one or both doors widened to provide extra width for oversized cargo. Modifications and customizations will depend on your particular shipping requirements.
We're ready to take your questions so give us a call or contact us with a form submission today! Also check out some common FAQs here too.
━ What to look for ━
Inspect the Container Exterior
Examine the container for any dents, rust, or other damage on all sides before purchase. Check that the doors open, close, lock and seal properly with minimal effort. Inspect the base and roof for any punctures or water damage. High-quality containers will have minimal exterior wear and tear.
Check the Container Specifications
Make sure the container meets ISO standards for size, strength, and durability. A 40ft side opening container should measure 12.192m (L) x 2.438m (W) x 2.591m (H) and be certified to hold cargo weights up to 26,700kg.
Test the Locking Mechanism
The locking rods, or twist locks, secure the containers together during transport. Test that the twist locks rotate fully and fasten securely on all corners of the container. Properly functioning twist locks are vital to safely stacking and transporting the containers.
Assess the Container Floor
The container floor should be made of sturdy wood (often pine) and show no major cracks, holes or water damage. Check that the wood is at least 5/8 inches thick for heavy-duty use. The floor should be securely fastened to the container with bolts spaced no more than 18 inches apart.
Check the Container Age and Ownership Records
When possible, purchase a container that is less than 10 years old and request records indicating a single previous owner and regular maintenance. Older containers and those with unclear ownership records may have more significant damage or wear and tear that reduces quality and lifespan.
Looking for a new or used shipping container?
━ Customer feedback ━
Rev. Xose G. E.
Casa de Oracion San Diego
We are extremely pleased with the quality of the containers, and we want to extend our appreciation to Josh, the driver, for his outstanding performance. He demonstrated a commendable attitude and was tremendously helpful in placing the containers exactly where we required them.
Albert O.
Santa Clara County, CA
I spent a week trying to purchase a conex box but no one can deliver to my address. I overcame local delivery challenges by reaching out to Super Box last Monday, January 8 and was convinced to place an order the same day for a used 20' conex. To my surprise they were able to deliver the container 3pm the following day. Kudos to Sarah! Definitely giving them a 5-star review!
SuperBox's team boasts unmatched expertise in shipping container modifications, design, engineering, permitting and customization, giving customers confidence they're working with true industry experts.
Unlike basic sales/rentals, SuperBox specializes in full-service customization from start to finish, modifying containers with insulation, HVAC, plumbing, windows, finishes and executing complex designs.
As a true one-stop shop, SuperBox provides completely turnkey, hassle-free conversion solutions, managing every step from concept and design through construction and delivery.
SuperBox's design team pushes creative boundaries with a portfolio of innovative, unique container designs that inspire clients to visualize containers' full repurposed potential.
Extending containers' lifecycles through thoughtful modifications over disposal is a core sustainability value championed by SuperBox that resonates with eco-conscious buyers.
SuperBox sets the service standard with a highly responsive, solution-oriented team providing unmatched guidance and communication for a hassle-free client experience.
━ Applications ━
Storage and Transportation
The 40ft side opening shipping container is ideal for storing and transporting large items that would not fit through a standard container door. Its side access doors provide easy loading and unloading of oversized cargo like construction equipment, prefabricated units, and industrial machinery. With a volume of 2,390 cubic feet, it can hold the equivalent of a 3-bedroom house. It is a popular choice for companies that frequently ship and store bulky goods.
Temporary Structures
Due to their durability and weather resistance, used shipping containers are often repurposed as temporary buildings. The 40ft side opening container, in particular, lends itself well to this application because of its spacious interior and side access. It can be converted into a portable office, classroom, pop-up retail store, guard post, or disaster relief shelter. With some modifications, it can even become a workshop, studio, or living space. These re-purposed containers are a sustainable, affordable housing and workspace solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard 40ft side opening shipping container measures 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8.5 feet in height. The door opening measures 7.2 meters (23 feet) in width and 2.13 meters (7 feet) in height. These containers are designed to maximize cargo space while still fitting into standard shipping infrastructure.
A 40ft side opening shipping container has an internal capacity of 2,390 cubic feet or 67.7 cubic meters. The maximum payload for these containers is 28,800 kilograms or 63,504 pounds. The large door opening and spacious interior make these containers well-suited for oversized cargo that would not fit through a standard container door.
An empty 40ft side opening shipping container weighs approximately 5,000 kilograms or 11,023 pounds. The total maximum gross weight of a loaded container is 32,500 kilograms or 71,650 pounds. Shippers must be mindful not to overload the container, or it may not be allowed to ship. The tare weight of the container must be taken into account when loading cargo to ensure maximum payload capacity is not exceeded.