A Flat Rack Container is a type of special container that has no top and side walls, only a floor and two end walls (collapsible). It is specifically designed for loading oversized, overweight, or irregularly shaped cargo, such as large machinery, steel, vehicles, yachts, etc. Usage scenarios: When cargo height or width exceeds that of a standard container, or cannot be loaded through the container doors, a flat rack is the ideal choice. Precautions: 1) Cargo must be securely lashed to the floor to prevent movement during transport; 2) Flat racks come in 20-foot and 40-foot sizes, with different load capacities and dimensions; 3) Over-limit cargo may require special stowage and additional charges; 4) Some shipping lines have free storage periods and lashing requirements for flat racks. Difference from standard containers: Standard containers have six enclosed sides and are suitable for general cargo; flat racks have only a floor and end walls, suitable for over-limit cargo. Difference from open-top containers: Open-top containers have side walls and top rails, with only the top open, suitable for over-height but normal-width cargo; flat racks have no side walls, suitable for over-width or over-length cargo. Difference from platform containers: Platform containers have only a floor and no end walls, while flat racks have end walls that provide some protection.
📝 Examples
1. Since the height of this batch of excavators reaches 3.2 meters, standard containers cannot load them. We recommend using 40-foot flat racks and arranging professional lashing. (Note: Due to over-height cargo, flat racks are chosen, emphasizing lashing requirements.)
2. The customer requires shipping a batch of over-width steel plates with a width of 2.8 meters. We booked 20-foot flat racks and confirmed that the shipping line allows deck loading. (Note: Due to over-width cargo, flat racks are selected, and attention is paid to deck loading restrictions.)
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