Out of gauge cargo (OOG) in shipping refers to cargo which cannot fit into a standard shipping container, because it is too wide, tall or long. OOG shipping (sometimes known as project cargo) needs planning and careful attention to detail.

Mercator was recently asked to handle the import customs clearance and delivery of two pieces of machinery parts.  Both drums were out of gauge cargo and were shipped from the USA to the UK using two 20’ flat rack containers.

Our agent in the USA handled the sea freight from the USA to the UK, along with loading and transporting the flat racks to the port in New York.  Once the shipment arrived in Southampton, Mercator’s import team took the reigns, settling the shipping line’s landing charges and arranging delivery to Cornwall.  An abnormal load convoy was required due to the width of the cargo, Mercator handled this as well.

If you have an out of gauge shipment for import into the UK or export from the UK, then get in touch with our team to obtain a quote. We handle oversized shipments utilising flat racks and open top containers, and can help with loading or unloading at site. You can contact our team by calling (+44) 02392 756 575, emailing sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk or completing the form below and someone will be in touch.

Request a Quote for Out of Gauge Shipping

What is a flat rack container?

A flat rack (FR) container is a piece of special shipping equipment that does not have a top or long sides.  The base is constructed to hold heavier loads than a standard shipping container.  There are only end walls which can be either static or collapsible.

Why use a flat rack container?

Flat rack containers are used in shipping when freight needs to be loaded from the top or the side, generally for bulky or heavy loads.  Goods will usually be craned into place on the FR, strapped and secured ready for shipping.  Loads for shipping a flat rack container can either be covered with a secure tarpaulin or shrink wrapped. 

FRs are also used for out of gauge freight.  Cargo can overhang the long sides of the container during transportation.

Flat Rack Container Dimensions

What examples of cargo do you use a flat rack for?

FRs can be used for any cargo that is considered out of gauge, or unable to load into a standard shipping container due to bulky nature or weight.  FRs are commonly used for large pieces of machinery, pipes, vehicles, timber to name a few.

FRs come in three sizes: 20’, 40’ and 40’ high cube.

How do I arrange the shipping of a flat rack container?

To begin the process of shipping a flat rack, first appoint a freight forwarder.  An experienced freight forwarder will be able to arrange the delivery of a FR to your premises for loading, advise any requirements for how to load and lash your freight, transport the loaded goods to the sea freight port for export, book space on a vessel, and even clear and deliver your shipment once it arrives at destination.

Mercator is a UK based freight forwarder, our export department handle regular loads of out of gauge and heavy freight using FRs.  Below are images of an export George handled recently for shipping to the USA using a 40ft FR.  The cargo was loaded on site at the exporter’s premises using an on-site crane, lashed and covered with a tarpaulin for shipping to the USA.

Machinery loaded on a Flat Rack Container for shipping to USA.
Machinery Covered in Tarpaulin on a FR ready for shipping.

If you require services for shipping using a flat rack container, then get in touch with our export team.  We regularly handle UK manufactured machinery and components for export across the globe.  Our team will be glad to provide you with a quote for your flat rack shipping requirements.  You can call our team on (+44) 02392 756 575, email sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk, or complete the form below.

Request a Quote for Shipping Flat Rack Containers

Mercator can offer shipping services for abnormal loads and oversized cargo.  Examples of loads we are able to deal with include yachts, planes, locomotives, wind generators and propellers to name a few.

Cargo of this nature needs to be handled with care for loading and unloading and specially secured during transit by sea.  Mercator can arrange for your oversized load to be transported in the safest and efficient way.  With over twenty years of experience in the freight forwarding business, our team of freight forwarders have the knowledge and experience to be able to advise you about options when shipping your out of gauge (OOG) cargo.

Arranging for cargo which does not fit into a standard container requires experience and full understanding of possibilities when it comes to ocean freight.  Some freight services on offer include flat-rack, RoRo (roll-on, roll-off), timber beds, hiab/crane deliveries and low loaders.  With Mercator’s team of freight forwarders, we can assist you in arranging the safe transportation of your oversized cargo load.

Call us today to discuss your out of gauge (OOG) cargo shipment with details of rough dimensions and weight – Tel. 02392 756 575. Email: sales@mercatorcargo.co.uk.

 

Request a Quote for Shipping Out of Gauge Cargo