20ft Side Opening Shipping Containers
Overview
A 20ft side opening shipping container features a full-length set of bifold doors along one side, in addition to the standard cargo doors at one end.
This makes it easy to access stock, bulky goods, or equipment without unloading everything from the front. The smaller footprint of the 20ft model is ideal for restricted sites, temporary use, or businesses that need fast, flexible access. Forklift loading becomes simpler, and you can use the side opening to pick or place items right along the container’s length, especially helpful with stacked pallets or large items.
Each 20ft side opening container is constructed to full ISO specification with a marine-grade ply floor, multiple vents, and lashing points. Whether you’re storing, trading, or modifying, a 20ft open side shipping container gives you compact flexibility and ease of use.
Need more space? See our 20ft High Cube Side Opening Shipping Containers or 40ft Side Opening Shipping Containers solutions for larger applications.
Dimensions
External dimensions
| Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft (6058mm) | 8ft (2438mm) | 8ft 6in (2591mm) |
Internal dimensions
| Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 19ft 4in (5898mm) | 7ft 6in (2287mm) | 7ft 7in (2302mm) |
Our expert conversions team can enhance 20ft side-opening shipping containers with a wide range of XTRAS for added comfort, practicality, and convenience—making them especially popular for retail, catering, and event setups where access and visibility matter.
All Cleveland XTRAS are completed by experienced specialists and delivered ready for immediate use, helping you create a container that perfectly suits your requirements.
-
Ply Line & Insulation
Improves temperature control, reduces condensation and noise, and enhances a container’s durability.
-
Personnel Doors
Enhances access and security - ideal for container offices, workshops, storage units and conversions.
-
Windows
Better light, airflow and usability - perfect for offices, kiosks, workshops and custom container conversions.
-
Electrics & Lighting
Boosts functionality, visibility and versatility, enabling office, workshop, storage and custom uses.
-
Racking
Durable racking keeps containers organised, safe and efficient - ideal for tools, inventory and business storage.
-
Grafo-Therm
Grafo-Therm reduces condensation and improves insulation for a safer, more stable container interior.
-
Painting
Repainting improves protection, appearance and longevity, with high-quality finishes and custom colours available.
FAQ
Yes, due to the full side access doors and more complex build, side opening containers cost more than standard units of the same size. We’ll quote based on size and location.
Yes, 20ft side opening containers are frequently used for event, catering, or retail conversions. If you need internal modifications like serving hatches, ventilation, or power, purchase is required.
The bifold configuration means you can open one panel at a time or fold back the entire side. It’s flexible enough for loading in compact areas where full clearance isn’t always available.
Yes, the full-length side opening makes forklift access straightforward, even for palletised goods positioned near the rear. It’s ideal for operations with fast turnaround or varied stock.
You’ll need lateral clearance to swing the side doors open fully. If the unit is placed near a fence or wall, we can advise on spacing and recommend best practice for site setup.
Yes, both access points operate independently. You can load from the side, the end, or both, depending on your layout and stock movement needs.