Shipping Container Tarp Covers for Open Top Containers
At ALCO, we design each shipping container tarp cover to protect cargo in 20 ft and 40 ft open top containers. These covers are made from heavy-duty 18 oz vinyl; they provide protection from rain, snow, sunlight, and debris. Around the edges, each cover has #10 grommets spaced every 8 inches. This makes it possible for you to secure it to the container with TIR cable.
We ship standard 20 ft and 40 ft covers within 10 to 15 working days. We offer custom sizes based on your drawing.
Choose Your Container Cover
Stocked sizes for standard containers, or made to your drawing.
20 ft and 40 ft Covers
You can use these ready-made covers for standard 8 x 20 ft and 8 x 40 ft open top containers. We design each of these covers from heavy 18 oz vinyl for guaranteed cargo protection.
- 20 ft cover: $786
- 40 ft cover: $999
- Shipping takes between 10 and 15 work days
- The 18 oz vinyl options come with a lifetime warranty.
Custom Size Covers
For custom-size covers, send us your drawing or measurements. We will design covers that fit your container and position the grommets at the exact place you want them to be.
- Custom-made based on your drawing
- Quotation is calculated per cover
- 18 oz vinyl options come with a lifetime warranty
Cover Specifications
| Material | 18 oz vinyl-coated polyester with an internal scrim |
| Water | 100% waterproof |
| Temperature | -20°F to 160°F |
| Grommets | #10 grommets at the corners and every 8 in. along the edges |
| Sizes | 8 x 20 ft, 8 x 40 ft or custom |
| Lead time | 10 to 15 working days |
| Warranty | Lifetime on 18 oz vinyl, 10 years on 12 oz vinyl |
How the Cover Attaches
#10 Grommets
The cover comes with #10 grommets placed at the corners and every 8 inches along the edges. This spacing helps keep the cover securely in place.
TIR Cable
The TIR cable should be passed through the grommets and the container lashing ring to lock down the cover. You need to know that TIR cables are not included with the cover; they are sold separately.
Roof Bows
Roof bows are also called cross members. They support the tarp from underneath so that rainwater can drain off instead of collecting on the cover. Roof bows are not included in ALCO’s cover.
Cable Ties
The #10 grommets are large enough to accommodate cable ties, giving you another option for securing the cover more firmly.
Only 3 Steps to Order
Measure The Container
Confirm whether your container is a standard 20 ft or 40 ft open top container. Measure the top opening of the container if it is a different size.
Choose Stocked Or Custom
Order a standard size cover and place your order online, or send us a drawing if you want a custom-made cover.
Order Online Or Get A Quote
Place your order on our product page, or send us your measurements to request a quote.
Common Questions
What is an open top container called?
It’s popularly known as an open top container, or you can call it OT for short. It is a standard shipping container that does not have a permanent roof. It features a removable tarp cover that covers the top and is secured to lashing rings along the upper edges. The container comes with roof bows underneath to support the tarp.
Which is better, poly or vinyl tarps?
Compared to poly tarps, vinyl tarps generally last longer on a container. At ALCO, our 18 oz vinyl is 100% waterproof, withstands temperatures from -20°F to 160°F, and has a lifetime warranty. Poly tarps are lighter and cost less, but they easily wear out under sun and wind.
What is a TIR cord?
A TIR cord is also called a TIR cable. It works by threading through the tarp’s grommets and the container lashing rings to hold the cover in place. The full meaning of TIR is Transports Internationaux Routiers. It’s a customs convention for international road transport. ALCO’s covers do not come with TIR cables.
Can I put a roof over a shipping container?
Yes, you can put a roof over a shipping container. This is because an open top container roof uses a removable tarp cover instead of a permanent roof. You will find our standard cover design in 20 ft and 40 ft, making it a perfect fit for open top containers. Plus, our covers have #10 grommets spaced every 8 inches to secure properly.
What is the size of an open top container?
The size of standard open top containers is 20 ft or 40 ft long and 8 ft wide. We have ready-made covers for both sizes. We can also make a custom cover from your drawing if your container dimensions are different.
Do roof bows come with the cover?
No, roof bows do not come with the cover. Roof bows are also known as cross members that support the tarp, but they are not included. This is because many open top containers already have them installed.