In the realm of specialized shipping, the cargo world is not always neatly packed into $8\text{ft}$ by $8.5\text{ft}$ boxes. When your load exceeds the standard dimensions of a typical shipping container—whether in height, width, or both—it is classified as Out-of-Gauge (OOG) cargo.
This is where the robust and uniquely designed flat rack container steps in as the logistics industry’s platform for the impossible.
What Makes a Flat Rack Container Special?
A flat rack container is essentially a freight platform with only end walls (fixed or collapsible), a sturdy base, and no permanent sides or roof. This simple but powerful design transforms a liability (oversized cargo) into a transportable asset.
| Feature | Function for OOG Cargo |
| Open Sides and Top | Allows cargo to overhang the length and width of the container base. |
| Heavy-Duty Base | Built with reinforced steel and thick wood flooring to handle incredibly concentrated weight. A 40ft flat rack can handle up to 40000kg of payload. |
| Lashing Rings | Features numerous strong lashing points (or tie-down rings) built into the side rails and floor for securing heavy or irregularly shaped items. |
| Collapsible Walls | Many 20ft and 40ft flat racks have end walls that fold inwards, allowing empty units to be stacked flat like pancakes for cost-effective repositioning. |
Handling the Out-of-Gauge Challenge
The primary purpose of the flat rack is to eliminate the dimensional limits that halt standard freight operations.
1. Over-Width and Over-Height Cargo
Standard containers restrict cargo to a width of 7ft 8in and a height of 7ft 10in. Flat racks remove these internal barriers.
- Machinery: Large industrial components, bulldozers, turbines, and large factory machinery that cannot be dismantled are easily positioned and secured.
- Modular Structures: Prefabricated sections of bridges, oil field equipment, and oversized metal structures (sometimes referred to as non-standard freight) are routinely shipped this way.
2. Specialized Loading and Unloading
Because flat racks lack fixed walls and a roof, they enable crucial flexibility at the port and job site.
- Top-Loading: Heavy-lift cranes can lower massive items directly onto the platform.
- Side-Loading: Forklifts can place lengthy materials, such as pipe bundles or steel beams, onto the base from the side. This is impossible with a standard dry van container.
Essential Securing and Safety (The Shippers’ Responsibility)
The safe transit of OOG cargo depends entirely on the correct securing and lashing, a critical aspect of specialized logistics. Since the cargo is exposed, there is no margin for error.
- Anti-Slip Material: Rubber mats or dunnage must be placed between the metal base of the flat rack and the cargo to prevent slipping during transit.
- Lashing Plan: A professional lashing plan must be developed, using high-tension chains, straps, and corner locks. The total lashing capacity in each direction (forward, aft, port, starboard) must be equal to or greater than the weight of the cargo itself.
- Weight Distribution: The cargo’s center of gravity must be precisely calculated and positioned in the center of the flat rack, with the weight spread across the strongest support points (the floor rails).
Important Note: Due to the complexity and specialized handling required, all flat rack container shipments must be declared to the carrier well in advance. Mis-declaring the dimensions of out-of-gauge cargo can lead to safety risks, port rejections, and significant fines.
The flat rack container is the workhorse of heavy-duty specialized shipping, providing the strength and versatility required to keep infrastructure, construction, and heavy industry moving globally.
Do you have an oversized project that needs a shipping solution?
- View Our Specialized Inventory: Explore our range of high-payload $20\text{ft}$ and $40\text{ft}$ flat rack containers, available for sale or lease: Fredemi Flat Rack Container Options
- Request an OOG Quote: If your cargo exceeds standard dimensions, let our project logistics team handle the details and lashing plan: Request a Quote for Specialized Shipping on fredemi.org
