Flat Rack
Last updated: June 14, 2026
- Flat racks are containers with no side walls and collapsible end walls — for cargo that won't fit in GP containers
- Available in 20ft and 40ft sizes; 20ft payload ~30-35 tons, 40ft payload ~40-45 tons
- Typical cargo: oversized machinery, vehicles, pipes, heavy equipment, steel structures, and boats
Flat Rack is a container with no side walls and collapsible end walls, designed for cargo that will not fit in a standard GP container — oversized machinery, vehicles, pipes, heavy equipment, and steel structures. Available in 20ft and 40ft sizes, flat racks require a lashing plan and specialized handling at ports.
Chinese: 框架箱 (Kuàngjià xiāng)
Flat Rack vs. Platform vs. Open Top
Flat rack: end walls are collapsible (foldable) — can be left up or folded down. Platform container: NO end walls — just a flat base for the largest pieces. Open top: has walls and a roof frame but no hard roof — cargo is loaded from above with a crane, then covered with a tarpaulin. Each serves different OOG scenarios: flat racks for most OOG machinery and vehicles; platforms for extremely oversized pieces; open tops for tall cargo that fits within container width/length.
Practical Example
A Shandong machinery manufacturer exports a 22-ton injection molding machine measuring 5.5m x 2.6m x 2.2m to Brazil. The width (2.6m) exceeds standard container width (2.35m), so a 40ft flat rack is booked. The machine is lifted onto the flat rack by crane at the factory, then secured with 4 chains and turnbuckles at designated lashing points. The end walls remain collapsed for loading. At Qingdao Port, the loaded flat rack is lifted onto the vessel by gantry crane and stowed on deck for direct crane access at Santos. Total freight including flat rack surcharge and OOG handling: $6,200.
Related Terms
- OOG (Out of Gauge) — the type of cargo that requires flat racks
- Breakbulk — alternative to flat rack for extremely large cargo
- RO-RO — alternative for wheeled cargo on flat racks
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a flat rack and a platform container?
A flat rack has collapsible end walls; a platform container has NO end walls — just a flat base. Platform containers are for the largest OOG pieces where even folded walls obstruct loading. Flat racks are more common for typical OOG machinery and vehicles. See our heavy-lift service.
How much weight can a flat rack carry?
A 20ft flat rack typically carries 30-35 tons payload; a 40ft flat rack carries 40-45 tons. Weight limits depend on the specific model's tare weight. Always provide exact dimensions and weight for booking — the carrier needs this for stowage planning.
Is flat rack shipping more expensive than standard container shipping?
Yes. Base rates are 30-50% higher than standard GP containers, plus OOG handling surcharges, lashing charges, and possible crane surcharges. However, for cargo that cannot fit in a standard container, flat rack is the most efficient option — breakbulk is often more expensive and slower.
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