Shipping Container with Side Opening: Features, Dimensions, Add-Ons, and Costs
Shipping Container with Side Opening – Features, Dimensions & Costs
Key Takeaways
- Side-opening shipping containers make loading large or bulky items a breeze, thanks to their wide-access doors along the side.
- They come in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes, with both standard and high-cube height options to suit your space needs.
- Want more functionality? You can customize them with lockboxes, paint colors, shelving, insulation, you name it.
- They do cost more than standard containers, sometimes even double because of the specialized build, but the convenience often pays off.
- At Conexwest, we turn standard containers into fully customized solutions. From side openings and climate control to sleek branding and electrical upgrades, we’ve got you covered, with fast, nationwide delivery and service that’s hard to beat.
Why Side-Opening Shipping Containers Stand Out
Side-opening containers really shine in their flexibility and ease of use. Instead of squeezing everything through one narrow end, you get full side access, perfect for bulky gear or tight spaces where maneuvering is tricky.
They're also way more than just storage. People are turning them into pop-up shops, mobile cafes, and even stylish tiny homes. That wide side access? It opens the door (literally) to all kinds of creative uses you just can’t pull off with a standard container.
What makes them even more user-friendly is the ground-level access. You don’t have to lift items awkwardly, and larger equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks can move in and out without a problem. It’s faster, safer, and just more efficient all around.
Conexwest, a leader in shipping and storage solutions based in Northern California, offers new, used, and refurbished containers from 10ft to 45ft, with fast delivery within 3–7 days and container fabrication options like adding shelves and locks. We serve over 10,000 customers nationwide, including prestigious clients like the U.S. Navy and Google. As an ISO 9001 and AWS-certified company, we ensure top quality and competitive pricing. |
Features of Side-Opening Shipping Containers
- Full Side Access: The real standout here is the side doors. They open up along the entire length, making it super easy to load large or palletized items without a squeeze.
- End Doors: You still get the classic double doors on one end—great for flexibility.
- Steel Construction: Built tough with high-strength, weather-resistant steel that can take a beating and still perform.
- Timber or Bamboo Flooring: Marine-grade plywood or bamboo floors are strong, easy to clean, and built to last.
- Ventilation: Built-in vents help cut down moisture and protect your gear from condensation.
- Locking Mechanisms: Doors lock up tight with options like padlocks or added lockboxes for extra peace of mind.
Lockboxes add a tough layer of protection to your side-opening container, keeping contents safe from tampering.
- Water- and Vermin-Proof: Sealed up well to keep everything dry and critter-free.
- Stackable: Ready to be stacked if you need multi-level storage or structures.
Dimensions and Specifications
Specification | 20-ft Side Opening | 40-ft Side Opening |
External Length | 20 ft 0 in | 40 ft 0 in |
External Width | 8 ft 0 in | 8 ft 0 in |
External Height | 8 ft 6 in | 8 ft 6 in |
Internal Length | 19 ft 4 in | 39 ft 5 in |
Internal Width | 7 ft 6 in | 7 ft 8.5 in |
Internal Height | 7 ft 6.5 in | 7 ft 9.5 in |
Door Opening (Side) | ~19 ft 0 in (width) | ~38 ft 9 in (width) |
Door Height | ~7 ft 0 in | ~7 ft 0 in |
Cubic Capacity | 1,095–1,236 cu ft | 2,366 cu ft |
Tare Weight | 4,630–7,010 lbs | 8,773–8,759 lbs |
Max Payload | 45,900–62,540 lbs | 59,080–67,170 lbs |
Note: “High Cube” versions are available, offering an extra foot in height for more internal volume.
Popular Add-Ons and Modifications
- Shelving and Racking: Keep things tidy with custom storage setups.
- Windows and Personnel Doors: Add some natural light or foot traffic flow; perfect for turning it into a shop, workspace, or home.
- Electrical Fit-Outs: Get it wired with lights, outlets, and even HVAC to make it comfy and functional.
- Security Features: Go all in on safety with lockboxes, reinforced doors, and alarms.
- Ventilation Upgrades: Extra vents or whirlybirds help keep air moving, especially in hot spots.
Installing extra vents boosts airflow inside your side-opening container.
- Container Ramps: Smooth out loading with easy forklift or trolley access.
- Insulation and Lining: Keep it cool, warm, or quiet; ideal for storing sensitive stuff or turning it into a livable space.
- Custom Paint and Branding: Add your logo, match your company colors, or just make it look awesome.
Applications
Side-opening containers are perfect when you’re dealing with cargo that’s too bulky for standard doors. They’re also super handy for storage setups where you need fast, easy access; no more unloading the whole thing just to reach what’s in the back. You’ll often see them repurposed as pop-up shops, mobile cafes, construction site offices, or even temporary showrooms and event spaces. They’re as flexible as your imagination!
Costs
Costs vary depending on size, condition, and how custom you want to go. A new 20-foot side-opener usually falls between $4,800 and $7,300, while used ones are tough to find and often priced similarly to new. For 40-foot models, prices typically range from $8,000 to $12,000 or more, especially with added features. Basic upgrades like shelving or vents might cost a few hundred dollars, but full build-outs, like turning one into an office or retail space, can run $2,000 to $10,000+, depending on what you’re after.
* These prices are just an estimate and are subject to change. Contact us to get the exact pricing.
Conexwest Makes Side-Opening Containers Work for You
Side-opening containers should work with you, not against you, and that’s exactly what Conexwest is all about. These containers are built tough, super easy to access, and totally customizable to fit how you operate.
Conexwest’s side-opening containers give you full-width access and rock-solid durability.
Need extra doors, windows, HVAC, or even a custom setup with built-in shelving or furniture? No problem. Our team can turn a standard container into a mobile office, pop-up shop, or whatever setup fits your flow.
We keep things simple with fast delivery, clear pricing, and real support from start to finish. No fluff, just a solid, ready-to-use solution that’s built around your needs.
Go with Conexwest and get a container that’s not just functional but actually makes your life easier.
Frequently asked questions
What are side-opening containers primarily used for?
These containers are great for storing or transporting oversized items that just won’t fit through standard end doors. Their wide side access makes loading and unloading much easier. Plus, they’re a popular pick for creative builds like pop-up shops, portable cafes, or flexible storage units, thanks to how accessible and adaptable they are.
How durable are side-opening containers compared to standard ones?
They're built just as tough. Made from high-strength steel, side-opening containers are designed to handle rough weather and heavy-duty use. And don’t worry—the extra doors on the side don’t weaken the structure.
Can side-opening containers be used in all weather conditions?
Absolutely. These containers are sealed tightly to keep out wind, rain, and other elements. If you're dealing with extreme temperatures, you can always add insulation to keep things comfortable inside.
Are side-opening containers available in used condition?
Yes, although they’re not as easy to come by as standard used containers. If you do find one, it can be a great way to save, but make sure it’s been inspected thoroughly to avoid any surprises.
Why should I choose Conexwest for my side-opening container needs?
We don’t just sell containers; we customize them to fit your exact vision. If you need extra doors, branding, or a full interior fit-out, our team has you covered. With fast delivery and a solid track record, it’s easy to see why thousands trust Conexwest.