Flat Rack Containers

In a nutshell

A flat rack container is an open transport platform with a sturdy floor and end walls. It has no side walls or roof, allowing for the loading of extra-wide, tall, or heavy goods via crane or from the side. Typical cargo includes machinery, vehicles, pipes, and large structural components.

What are the advantages of a flat rack container?

The open design makes loading bulky goods easier. The cargo can be accessed from above as well as from both sides.

Other advantages include:

• Space for oversized or overweight goods
• Loading via crane or forklift
• Robust floor construction for heavy loads
• Numerous lashing points for cargo securing
• Suitable for international container shipping
• Collapsible end walls on certain models

What is a flat rack container used for?

Flat racks are primarily used for project cargo and heavy-duty transport:

• Mechanical engineering: Production equipment and large machine parts
• Construction industry: Steel beams, pipes, and concrete components
• Vehicle transport: Construction machinery, commercial vehicles, and boats
• Energy technology: Transformers, generators, and plant components
• Forestry: Long timber and bulky wood elements
• Project logistics: Goods exceeding standard container dimensions

What types are available?

Flat rack containers are generally available in 20 and 40-foot sizes. The end walls can be fixed or collapsible.

With collapsible models, the end walls can be folded down onto the floor. This allows empty flat racks to be transported more space-efficiently. Models with fixed end walls, on the other hand, offer a permanently rigid structure.

Terminology: Flat rack, platform, and open top

• Flat rack container: Floor area with end walls, but without a roof or side walls
• Platform container: Pure loading platform without side or end walls
• Open top container: Container with fixed side walls and an open or removable roof
• Standard container: Fully enclosed container with doors on one end

What should be considered during loading?

The cargo must be evenly distributed and properly secured. For this purpose, a flat rack is equipped with lashing points on the floor and the frame. The permissible load capacity of the individual lashing points must not be exceeded.

If the cargo extends beyond the sides or the top, it is considered OOG cargo. OOG stands for "Out of Gauge." In such cases, the transport route, dimensions, weight, and cargo securing must be coordinated in advance with the shipping line or freight forwarder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do flat rack containers have side walls?

No. A flat rack does not have fixed side walls or a roof. It consists of a floor platform and two end walls.

What sizes are available?

Common sizes are 20 and 40 feet. Dimensions, tare weight, and payload may vary depending on the manufacturer and design.

Can a flat rack transport oversized goods?

Yes. Depending on the transport plan, goods may extend beyond the sides or top of the container. This usually involves additional requirements and costs.

How is the cargo secured?

Securing is carried out using methods such as chains, straps, wooden supports, and appropriate lashing equipment. It must be tailored to the weight, shape, and center of gravity of the cargo.

Is a flat rack suitable for sea transport?

Yes, provided it has a valid CSC certification and the cargo and its securing have been approved for the planned transport.

Does a flat rack provide weather protection?

The open design does not provide any inherent weather protection. Sensitive goods therefore require suitable packaging or covering.

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