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.
Mercator was instructed to arrange the sea freight shipping of three mobile cranes from Southampton in the UK to Taiwan. The cargo was classed as oversized (also sometimes referred to as out of gauge cargo). Due to the dimensions, non-standard shipping containers were used. If oversized cargo shipping is not planned thoroughly then it can end up being very expensive. The three cranes were loaded onto two flat rack shipping containers and one open top container.
Two of the cranes fitted into the parameters of the flat rack shipping containers after some adjusting – including removing the wing mirrors. This small adjustment took a few minutes but saved thousands in shipping costs. If the crane were overhanging the sides of the shipping container (even if it was just a wing mirror) then the shipper would be liable to pay for all the spaces around the container on the ship which would be unusable. The other crane was driven into the open top container, it was such a tight squeeze that the driver had to climb out of the window as the door wouldn’t open.
We managed to get the cargo into three shipping spaces on the vessel, but if not done thoroughly then it could have been up to 6 or 7 spaces to pay for for each crane! Therefore, it’s really important if you are going to ship something that is oversized to ensure that you choose a reputable freight forwarder who will do everything that they can in order to keep the cargo within the gauge of the container. A good freight forwarder is worth their weight in gold.
To ensure that everything would go smoothly, our MD (Paul) took a trip to Southampton Port on the morning of the crane loading and strapping to ensure he was satisfied with the shipping plans. The lashing on the cargo is important to ensure that there is no movement (and therefore avoiding damage) during the shipping process. Each mobile crane weighed in at about 25 tonnes, therefore the lashing put in place would have been for up to 3 times the cargo weight.
Later that day, the cranes were transported to the dock side, loaded onto the shipping vessel and set sail for Taiwan.
If you have an unusual load that you need to ship internationally, then get in contact with Mercator’s shipping team. We have over 20 years’ of experience in international freight forwarding, and thanks to our founding membership of MarcoPoloLine (a worldwide network of independent, vetted freight agents in over 90 countries) we have contacts across the globe to ensure the safe onward transit of your shipping consignment.
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.
10, St George’s Business Centre,
St Georges Square,
Portsmouth, PO1 3EZ, UK
Mercator is a family-run, UK based independent freight forwarder, offering highly effective sea, road and air freight services around the world.
