SIDE DOOR SHIPPING CONTAINER

Storage container with side opening – so-called side door (SD) or open side (OS) is a classic type of storage container with a side opening from the longer side. It is not only equipped with an opening from one narrow side but also from one or both longer sides of the container. This type of opening is required mainly where larger goods, machines, or cars need to be loaded into the container, which would not fit through the front opening on the narrow side.

Double door container - storage container with side opening
Storage container with side opening

The storage container with a side opening always has 1 door on the narrow side as a classic storage container and 1 door on the longer side of the container. Sometimes also called “Full side opening,” meaning a full opening of the side.

Alternatively, the container can have side openings on both sides, called double side door referred to as 2x SD or DSD. If the container has openings on all 4 sides, it is called full opening. That is, opening from all 4 sides. It can also have several fully openable entries on the side, which is mainly used for dividing the cargo into sections or where an employee should have access to a specific section of the shipping container.

Container with opening on one side

“Open side container” is most commonly used in various industries, such as logistics, trade, and manufacturing, where it serves for the safe transportation and storage of bulkier goods. They are designed to withstand harsh marine conditions (UV radiation, wind, salt, and weather conditions). They are often used for storing larger items, whether it’s cars, machines, or garden equipment. Known by the term: open side container

The container has a solid metal structure designed for transportation, storage, and protection of goods during sea transport. It is waterproof and also well-sealed to prevent damage to goods inside the container during transit. It is easy to handle and can be conveniently stacked on top of other containers. Handling is typically done using a forklift or crane.

What is a container with a side opening?

A container with a side opening, also known as a side door container, is a special type of shipping container that ensures easy and quick access to its contents. Unlike traditional containers, which have doors on one of the shorter sides, this container has opening doors on one of the longer sides. This unique design allows for more efficient loading and unloading of goods, especially when dealing with bulky or heavy items.

Advantages of side opening

Side opening offers many advantages, making it an ideal choice for various logistical and storage needs. Here are some of the main reasons why you should consider this type of container:

  1. Easy access: Thanks to the door on the longer side, it is easy and quick to access the container’s contents. This is very advantageous when loading and unloading goods frequently.
  2. Flexibility in loading: The side opening allows for easy loading and unloading of large and heavy items without having to manipulate the entire contents of the container.
  3. Efficient use of space: With access from the longer side, the container can be used more efficiently, and its contents can be optimally arranged.
  4. Safety: When handling heavy or bulky items, safety is crucial. Side opening reduces the risk of damage to goods or injury to workers.

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Construction and Dimensions

Containers with side openings are available in various sizes, with the most common being 20’ and 40’ variants. The construction of these containers is robust and durable, designed to withstand tough conditions during transport and storage. Here are the basic specifications for a 20′ container with a side opening:

  • length: 6.058 m
  • width: 2.438 m
  • height: 2.591 m
  • capacity: up to 28,000 kg

These dimensions and load capacity ensure that the container is capable of holding a large amount of goods while remaining stable and secure.

Use of side door containers

Side opening containers are ideal for a wide range of applications. Here are some of the main uses:

  1. storage: Due to easy access, these containers are excellent for storing goods that need to be frequently loaded and unloaded.
  2. transport: They are ideal for transporting heavy and bulky items that would be difficult to access in traditional containers.
  3. construction: On construction sites, they are often used for storing tools, materials, and equipment that need to be quickly accessible.
  4. industry: In industrial sectors, they are used for storing and transporting machines, equipment, and materials.

Maintenance and safety

In order for side opening containers to serve for a long time and remain safe, it is important to carry out regular maintenance. Here are some tips:

  • regular inspection: Perform regular inspections of the container’s condition, including doors, locks, and seals.
  • cleaning: Keep the container clean and dry to prevent moisture buildup and subsequent corrosion.
  • repairs: If you notice any damage, do not delay repairs. Small repairs can prevent larger problems in the future.
  • safety precautions: Always follow safety guidelines when handling the container and use appropriate protective gear.

Primarily, the Side Door (SD) storage container with side opening is sold in lengths of 20’ feet. This type of container is equipped with one entry from the narrow side with lockable doors. These ensure safety and protection from unauthorized access + 1 or 2 entries from the longer side of the container, again with lockable doors.

The side opening storage container is available in the following sizes:

 side door containerSIDE DOOR CONTAINER – side open doors
 External dimensions (m)Internal dimensions (m)Dimensions doors (m)Weight kgCapacity
CONTAINER TYPElengthwideheightlengthwideheightwideheightcontainermaximum load capacitym3
20’SD 6,0582,4382,5915,8982,2872,3022,2262,18930602742031
20’HC SD6,0582,4382,8965,8982,2882,5592,2272,44633802710034,5
20’HC Full side6,0582,4382,8965,8442,2242,6042,1142,47444001960033,8
40’HC SD12,1922,4382,89612,0322,2882,4532,2272,3456602482067
Internal dimension 20' Open Side
Internal dimension 20′ Open Side – side opening in mm (dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer)

Besides this standard type, the following also belong to this category:

Double side door container

Containers with two side doors allow easy access to the cargo from both sides, significantly facilitating and speeding up loading and unloading. This design allows access to all parts of the cargo space without the need to move other items. With two side doors, you can load and unload simultaneously from both sides, reducing handling time and increasing the overall efficiency of logistical operations. This is especially useful in busy ports or storage spaces where speed is crucial.

These other two types of containers also have opening side walls. You can read more about each type on their dedicated pages.

Full side opening container

The last type in this category is the so-called full opening container – which has all four sides of the container opening. It is undoubtedly one of the more expensive types, and its use is usually required for specific purposes when access to the goods from all sides is needed. It is the best choice for secure storage, where accessibility from both longer sides is also required. Shipping containers offer a wide variety of sizes and designs. You can view a detailed overview of them in the division of shipping containers.

A fully openable container from all four sides, also known as a “Full opening” container, represents a revolution in transportation and storage. This special type of container offers incredible flexibility and easy access to the loaded goods, making it ideal for various uses. Now let’s look at the main advantages of these containers and what they are most commonly used for.