Flat Rack Shipping Containers

• Are flat rack containers available for hire?

  Yes, flat rack containers are available for hire, providing a flexible solution for businesses or individuals needing temporary transport for large items. Hiring a flat rack container is often ideal for one-off shipments or short-term projects where purchasing a container might not be cost-effective. For details on rental options, check out our Storage Containers for Hire page.

• Are flat rack containers weatherproof?

  Flat rack containers are not fully weatherproof due to their open sides and lack of a roof. This design allows for oversized cargo to extend beyond the container’s frame. For cargo sensitive to rain, sun, or other environmental factors, a tarpaulin or weather-resistant cover can be used to protect the goods during transport. If you’re seeking weatherproof containers, you might be interested in our Insulated Shipping Containers.

• Can I use a flat rack container for storage?

  Flat rack containers can be used for temporary storage of oversized items, especially when moving equipment or materials around a worksite. However, because they lack side walls and a roof, they don’t provide complete protection from the elements and may not be suitable for storing weather-sensitive items. For secure, weatherproof storage solutions, see our Self Storage Containers page.

• Can flat rack containers be stacked?

  Yes, flat rack containers can be stacked when not in use or when transporting lighter goods. However, it’s essential to consider the cargo weight and distribution. Flat racks with collapsible end walls can be stacked in a more compact form, making them easy to store when empty. For loaded flat racks, stacking is generally avoided to ensure safety and protect the cargo.

• Do I need special equipment to load a flat rack container?

  Loading a flat rack container often requires specialised equipment, such as cranes or forklifts, especially when handling heavy or oversized items. Since flat racks are designed for top or side loading, they provide flexibility, allowing machinery to easily lift and position items onto the container bed. Working with experienced loading teams and the right equipment ensures safe handling of oversized cargo.

• Do flat rack containers have any walls?

  Flat rack containers typically have collapsible end walls but lack side walls and a roof. The end walls provide stability and support for securing cargo while allowing for flexible loading. Some flat racks have fixed end walls for additional structural support, especially for heavier items, while others have end walls that can fold down flat to accommodate longer or larger items.

• How are flat rack containers secured during transport?

  Flat rack containers are equipped with anchor points and lashing rings that allow cargo to be securely fastened to the container bed. This ensures stability and safety, even when transporting heavy or irregularly shaped items. Additionally, professional shippers use specialised straps, chains, or lashing equipment to secure items, making flat racks a reliable choice for transporting goods that don’t fit in standard containers. For more container options, see our Shipping Containers for Sale page.

• What are the dimensions of a flat rack container?

  Flat rack containers typically come in both 20-foot and 40-foot lengths. A 20-foot flat rack provides a compact but robust platform for transporting smaller oversized items, while the 40-foot version offers more space for larger or longer cargo. Both sizes have a standard width of 2.44 metres, making them compatible with various transport methods. For additional container size options, you can visit our 20 ft shipping containers and 40 ft shipping containers pages.

• What industries commonly use flat rack containers?

  Flat rack containers are commonly used in industries that require the transport of heavy or oversized goods. They’re popular in construction, mining, manufacturing, and agriculture, as these sectors often deal with equipment and materials that exceed the size limitations of standard containers. The flat rack’s versatility and open design make it ideal for transporting vehicles, large machinery, and building materials.

• What is a flat rack shipping container?

  A flat rack shipping container is a type of container designed to transport oversized cargo that doesn’t fit inside standard containers. Unlike typical containers, flat racks have collapsible sides or end walls and an open top, allowing for easy loading of items like machinery, vehicles, heavy equipment, and large industrial components. They’re often used in shipping and logistics for items with irregular shapes or large dimensions.

• What types of cargo are flat rack containers suitable for?

  Flat rack containers are ideal for transporting oversized, heavy, or oddly shaped items that don’t fit in standard shipping containers. Common cargo includes vehicles, industrial machinery, large construction equipment, pipes, and building materials. With open sides and no fixed roof, flat racks are perfect for items that require top or side loading, offering flexibility in loading and unloading larger objects.

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