What Are Flat Rack Containers and Why Are They Useful in Shipping?

Firstly, what are flat rack containers, you may ask? Well, to put it simply, they’re containers without sides. Yup, you read that right! No sides, just a base and two end walls. Flat rack containers come in two forms – fixed end and collapsible end, with the latter being the most popular. These containers are ideal for shipping cargo that is either oversized, overweight or has an irregular shape, making them an essential part of the transportation industry.

So, why are flat rack containers useful? For starters, they’re incredibly versatile. They can be used to ship a wide range of goods, including heavy machinery, vehicles, and construction materials, among other things. Their open design means that cargo that would normally be too bulky or irregularly shaped to fit in a standard container can be transported safely and efficiently. It’s no wonder that flat rack containers have become a staple of the shipping industry.

What Features Do Flat Rack Containers Have?

As mentioned, Flat Rack Containers are incredibly versatile, they can be shipped like a standard shipping container if the contents do not exceed the width or height of the unit. However, their main benefit is for shipping large or irregular sized goods that may be too wide or too tall to fit inside a standard container, also known as out of gauge cargo. If goods exceed the container dimensions, they can be shipped as special cargo at the top of a stack on a container ship.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “But Cargostore, surely these containers must be a nightmare to handle and transport?” Fear not, me hearties, for flat rack containers are surprisingly easy to handle. They come equipped with forklift pockets and corner castings, making it simple to load and unload them from trucks and ships. They also come with lashing rings, which are used to secure the cargo to the container during transit, ensuring that it stays in place and doesn’t shift around.

In addition to their practicality, flat rack containers are also environmentally friendly. Due to their open design, they’re lighter than standard containers, which means they require less fuel to transport. This not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping but also saves on fuel costs. Talk about a win-win!

So, there you have it – a brief rundown of what flat rack containers are and why they’re so useful. With their versatility, ability to be stacked, ease of handling, and environmental benefits, it’s no wonder that they’ve become such an essential part of the shipping industry.

In conclusion, if you’re ever in need of transporting cargo that is too bulky or oddly shaped for a standard container, a flat rack container could be just the ticket. Not only are they practical and versatile, but they’re also environmentally friendly. So, if you’re looking to ship your cargo with ease and a clear conscience, consider using a flat rack container. Arrr!