Side Opening Container, also known as Open Side Container or Side Access Container, is an ISO shipping container equipped with full-length bi-fold doors running along one entire long side. Unlike a General Purpose Container, which can only be accessed through the end doors, this container provides full lateral access without any structural obstruction.
A Side Opening Container features 4 concertina-style doors that can be opened incrementally: 1/4, 1/2, or fully (50% to the left, 50% to the right). This gives you complete control over how wide the access opening needs to be for each loading or unloading operation.
Despite having doors along its side, the Side Opening Container still retains its end doors. This means the container provides 2 separate access points: side access and end access.
The Side Opening Container is well suited for on-site storage at project locations, trade show displays, and long-distance logistics shipping. This type of shipping container is available in multiple size options, ranging from the 20 ft Side Opening Shipping Container up to the 40ft High Cube Side Opening Container.
Comparison: Side Opening Container vs Standard Container
|
Comparison |
Side Opening Container |
Standard Container |
| Side access | Full bi-fold doors | Not available |
| End doors | Available | Available |
| Door mechanism | 4 doors, openable at 1/4, 1/2, or fully | None |
| Unobstructed access width | Full side with no structural obstruction | End opening only |
| Forklift access from side | Yes, highly efficient | Not possible |
| Loading flexibility | Very high | Standard |
There are several advantages to using a Side Opening Container:
1. Unobstructed Forklift Access
A forklift can drive directly into the side of the container to pick up or place cargo with ease. No lengthy maneuvering is required and there is no risk of collision at a narrow doorway. Loading and unloading time is reduced, and cargo damage is minimized.
2. Suitable for Large & Irregularly Shaped Cargo
Vehicles, generators, compressors, solar panels, steel pipes, and oversized construction materials no longer need to be forced through a narrow end door. Full side access across the entire length of the container makes loading and unloading far easier, safer, and faster.
3. Multiple Workers Can Operate Simultaneously
Because the access runs the full length of the side, multiple workers can operate from different points at the same time. The result is shorter operational time without increasing headcount.
4. Easier Access to Stored Goods
There is no longer a need to unload the entire container just to retrieve a single item stored toward the back. With full side access, any item can be reached directly without moving other cargo out of the way first.
5. Easy to Modify
The open-side structure makes this container the ideal base for conversion and modification projects. Installing windows, ventilation, cooling systems, interior partitions, and electrical systems is far easier because technicians can work from the wide open side of the container.
6. Security Is Maintained
Despite offering wider access, all doors on this container use high-quality Corten steel construction. Both the side doors and end doors are fitted with a locking bar system and are compatible with additional padlocks. The design is weather-resistant and structurally robust, identical to a standard container.
Daftar isi
Dimensions and Specifications of the Side Opening Container
20ft Side Opening Shipping Container
The 20ft Side Opening Shipping Container is the most commonly available unit on the market. It is also referred to as the Container Open Side 20.
At 20 feet, approximately 6 meters, in length, this container is ideal for pop-up stores, exhibition booths, equipment storage at construction sites, medium-scale machinery shipments, and modification projects converting it into a field office or portable workshop.
Key Features:
- Side-opening door
- Plywood flooring
- Air vents for air circulation
- Lashing rings
- Locking bars and lockbox
- Corner castings
- Forklift pockets
- ISO and CSC certification
Specifications: 20ft Side Opening Shipping Container
|
Specification |
Imperial |
Metric |
| External Dimensions | 20′ × 8′ × 8’6″ | 6,058 mm × 2,438 mm × 2,591 mm |
| Volume | 1,096 cu ft | 31.0 m³ |
| Tare Weight | 6,920 lbs | 3,140 kg |
| Max. Payload | 60,280 lbs | 27,340 kg |
| Max. Gross Weight | 67,200 lbs | 30,480 kg |
20ft High Cube Side Opening Shipping Container
The High Cube version of the 20ft Side Opening Container offers additional height compared to the standard version. The greater internal height makes it a superior choice for cargo requiring more vertical clearance, the installation of cooling or ventilation systems, or conversion projects turning it into a functional space such as an office, studio, or temporary accommodation.
Specifications: 20ft High Cube Side Opening Container
|
Specification |
Imperial |
Metric |
| External Dimensions | 20′ × 8′ × 9’6″ | 6,058 mm × 2,438 mm × 2,896 mm |
| Volume | 1,207 cu ft | 34.2 m³ |
| Tare Weight | 7,390 lbs | 3,350 kg |
| Max. Payload | 59,810 lbs | 27,130 kg |
| Max. Gross Weight | 67,200 lbs | 30,480 kg |
40ft High Cube Side Opening Double Door Container
The 40ft High Cube Side Opening Double Door Container offers twice the capacity of the 20ft version. At 12 meters in length with 12 meters of unobstructed full side access, this container is ideal for heavy equipment storage, high-volume cargo shipments, or conversion into a large, functional commercial space.
Specifications: 40ft High Cube Side Opening Double Door Container
|
Specification |
Imperial |
Metric |
| External Dimensions | 40′ × 8′ × 8’6″ | 12,192 mm × 2,438 mm × 2,896 mm |
| Volume | 1,207 cu ft | 34.2 m³ |
| Tare Weight | 12,350 lbs | 5,600 kg |
| Max. Payload | 54,850 lbs | 24,880 kg |
| Max. Gross Weight | 67,200 lbs | 30,480 kg |
Can a Side Opening Container Be Modified?
Yes and this is one of the key advantages of this container type. Full access from the side provides technicians with a very wide working area during the modification process, making installation work easier, faster, and more precise.
Structural & Environmental Modification Options
|
Modification |
Details |
| Insulation | Insulation panels to reduce heat transfer from outside |
| Windows | Sliding glass windows or fixed-pane windows for natural lighting |
| Additional doors | Rolling doors, sliding doors, or swing doors as required |
| Ventilation | Air vents, exhaust fans, or a complete mechanical ventilation system |
| Air conditioning | Split AC unit (e.g., Daikin) with temperature monitoring |
| Specialty flooring | Heavy-duty steel checker plate as a replacement for timber flooring |
Interior & Functional Modification Options
|
Modification |
Details |
| Storage shelving | Custom shelving systems for organized storage |
| Wall partitions | Divides the container into multiple distinct functional zones |
| Lighting system | Complete electrical lighting installation |
| Electrical installation | Full wiring, power outlets, and power supply |
| Exterior branding | Paint, vinyl wrapping, and commercial signage |
Examples of Use After Modification
- Mobile Workshop with insulation, electrical system, lighting, and organized tool storage.
- Pop-up Store with sliding glass doors, display shelving, and exterior branding.
- Office Container with air conditioning, partitions, windows, and electrical system.
- Mini Cold Storage with full insulation and a refrigeration unit.
- Mobile Clinic with HVAC system and plumbing.
- Modular Home with windows, insulation, and interior finishing.
There is no compromise to structural integrity during modification. This container retains its full structural strength even after extensive modification.
Why Order a Side Opening Container from Tradecorp?
Tradecorp Indonesia is more than a container supplier. We are your operational business partner, providing fully transparent pricing at every step. Here is why businesses choose to order their Side Opening Containers from Tradecorp.
Order Online. The ordering process at Tradecorp is designed to be as simple as possible. Contact us, receive a clear quotation, confirm, and your container is ready for delivery to your site. No drawn-out negotiations and no surprises at the end of the transaction.
Complete Stock, Ready to Ship. We carry a full range of options: 20ft Side Opening Shipping Container, 40ft Side Opening Shipping Container, and 40ft High Cube Side Opening Container. All units are ISO and CSC certified for both domestic and international shipping.
Nationwide Delivery Across Indonesia. From Jakarta, Surabaya, Balikpapan, and Makassar to the most remote project sites, we ensure your container arrives on time and in prime condition.
Transparent from Start to Finish. Pricing is clear, unit condition is documented, and delivery schedules are confirmed. No guesswork required.
Get the best offer on your chosen Side Opening Container today. Contact the Tradecorp Indonesia team now!
FAQ
What is the difference between a Side Opening Container and a standard container?
A standard container only has doors at one end. A Side Opening Container has doors running the full length of one side, providing complete lateral access with no posts or crossbars in the way. The result is a loading and unloading process that is significantly faster, safer, and more flexible, particularly for large or irregularly shaped cargo.
What sizes are available for the Side Opening Container?
Available in four main sizes: 20ft Side Opening Shipping Container, 20ft High Cube, 40ft Side Opening Shipping Container, and 40ft High Cube Side Opening Container. Tradecorp also supplies special sizes, including 19ft and 32ft, for specific project requirements.
Can the 20ft Open Side Container be used for international shipping?
Yes. All Side Opening Container units from Tradecorp are ISO and CSC certified, meeting the standards required for international cargo shipping and long-term on-site storage.
Is the 40ft High Cube Side Opening Container better than the standard 40ft version?
It depends on your requirements. The High Cube version provides additional height, which is particularly useful for stacked loads, the installation of mechanical systems such as air conditioning and ventilation, or conversion projects requiring more comfortable functional spaces.
What is the load capacity of the 20ft Side Opening Shipping Container?
Based on Tradecorp specifications, the 20ft Side Opening Shipping Container has a volume of 31 m³, a maximum payload of 27,340 kg, and a maximum gross weight (including the container’s own weight) of 30,480 kg.
Is a Side Opening Container more expensive than a standard container?
Yes, the price is generally higher than a standard end-opening container due to the more complex door construction system. Units are also more commonly available in new (one-trip) condition rather than used. However, the operational advantages it delivers are well worth the investment, particularly for businesses with high-frequency, large-cargo loading and unloading needs.
How easy is it to modify a Side Opening Container?
Very easy, in fact, easier than modifying a standard container. Full access from the side provides technicians with a wide working area. Modification options include insulation, windows, air conditioning, electrical systems, partitions, storage shelving, specialty flooring, and exterior branding.
Where can I order a Side Opening Container in Indonesia?
You can order directly through Tradecorp Indonesia. We supply units for both sale and rental with delivery throughout Indonesia. Contact our team now to receive an offer tailored to your project needs and budget.









