Flat Rack Shipping Containers: Uses and Buying Guide
Learn how flat rack shipping containers handle oversized and heavy cargo, their common uses and what buyers should inspect before purchasing.
Flat rack shipping containers are designed for cargo that cannot fit inside a standard enclosed container. With no permanent roof or full side walls, they provide easier access for loading oversized, heavy or unusually shaped items.
Explore our available Flat Rack Containers to compare suitable sizes and conditions.
What Is a Flat Rack Container?
A flat rack consists of a strong cargo deck with end walls. Depending on the model, the end walls may be fixed or collapsible. Corner posts and lashing points allow suitable cargo to be secured.
Flat racks are commonly available in 20ft and 40ft lengths, although availability varies.
Common Uses
Flat rack containers are often used for:
- Construction and agricultural machinery
- Industrial equipment
- Vehicles and boats
- Steel beams, pipes and long materials
- Timber and large building components
- Oversized cargo extending beyond standard dimensions
Cargo weight, dimensions and securing requirements should always be confirmed before loading.
Main Benefits
Open Side and Top Access
Cranes and suitable lifting equipment can load cargo from above or from the sides. This makes positioning large machinery easier than loading through standard doors.
Suitable for Oversized Loads
Some cargo may extend above or beyond the sides of the platform when properly planned, secured and permitted under applicable requirements.
Strong Cargo Platform
Flat racks are engineered to support demanding loads, but each unit has specific capacity limits that must never be exceeded.
Flat Rack or Open Top Container?
A flat rack is usually better when cargo is too wide as well as too tall. An open top container retains its steel side walls and cargo doors, making it more enclosed while still allowing overhead loading.
For cargo that fits between full side walls, compare our Open Top Containers.
If you need a fully enclosed unit for general storage, explore our 40ft Containers.
What Should You Inspect?
Check the cargo deck, corner posts, end walls, locking mechanisms and lashing points. Look for serious corrosion, cracks, distortion or damage that may affect safe use.
Confirm the unit’s identification details, rated capacity and condition. If it will be used for transportation, verify that it satisfies applicable inspection and certification requirements.
Budget-conscious buyers may also compare our Used Shipping Containers.
Plan Loading and Delivery
Provide the supplier with the cargo dimensions, estimated weight, loading method and delivery location. The site should offer firm ground, sufficient clearance and safe access for the required truck or lifting equipment.
Use qualified professionals to plan lifting, weight distribution and cargo securing.
Request a Flat Rack Quote
CargoVault Containers can help you compare available flat rack sizes and conditions. Request a quote today with your location, cargo details and preferred size.