The international project cargo market is booming:
Wind power towers, transformers, boats or complete production plants regularly travel across the world's oceans in flat-rack containers. However, incorrectly selected or inadequate insurance for flat-rack transport can quickly turn into a financial disaster in the event of a claim. This guide explains all the key aspects - from risk analysis and insurance conditions to a practical checklist - to ensure that your flatrack transport insurance is optimised.
Flat racks are open container platforms without side walls or roofs and are therefore ideal for extra-wide, extra-high or particularly heavy goods. At the same time, flat-rack cargoes are exposed to higher environmental and handling risks than classic FCL containers. Customised transport insurance for flat racks is therefore essential - especially if the goods are handled by RoRo feeder ship or loaded in ports with frequent sandstorms.
| Risk category | Typical dangers | Relevance for insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Physical damage | Scratches, dents, roof pressure with stacks | All-risk cover required |
| Weather influences | Salt spray, rain, UV radiation | Corrosion protection & condensation |
| Charge displacement | Lashing failure, swell | FEM lashing plan, survey |
| Theft/vandalism | Open platform | Higher deductible possible |
| Multimodal transhipment | Harbour crane, low-loader, barge | Additional interface risks |
| Form of cover | Core service | Typical exclusions |
|---|---|---|
| ICC A - All risk | Loss & damage due to external events | Insufficient packaging, own fault |
| ICC C - Named Perils | Only named hazards (fire, average, stranding) | All other risks |
| War & Strike Extension | Political risks, strike, terror | Higher premium, separate policy |
| Delay insurance (DSU) | Costs due to delay | Mechanical damage |
You can find useful basics in our Checklist for RoRo shipping
| Step | Measure | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Create photos & video log | Preservation of evidence |
| 2 | Apply VCI film / shrink wrap | Corrosion protection |
| 3 | Commission FEM lashing plan & survey | Carrier release |
| 4 | Disconnect batteries, secure liquids | Fire prevention |
| 5 | Check policy (Incoterms & cover) | Insurance cover |
| 6 | Enter emergency contacts on manifest | Quick damage report |
(Suggested image: Flat rack with wrapped excavator - old text "Excavator on flat rack, wrapped in shrink wrap")
External source: IUMI position paper "Cargo Securing on Flat-Racks" (PDF) on iumi.com.
How often is a survey necessary?
For carrier specification; recommended for every high-value load.
Is all-risk cover compulsory?
Not legal, but strongly recommended - Named Perils policies leave essential risks open.
Who reports the damage?
The policyholder on arrival at the port of discharge within 24 hours with photos, packing list and booking number.
Does the policy also apply to on-carriage trucking?
Only if multimodal cover is expressly agreed.
A customised insurance policy for flatrack transport combines all-risk cover, a suitable excess and a professional lashing plan. With clean documentation, robust corrosion protection and clear emergency processes, you can significantly minimise financial risks. ODS Orient is happy to support you with customised policy solutions.
All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.
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