{"id":1046,"date":"2025-12-09T14:22:24","date_gmt":"2025-12-09T14:22:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/?p=1046"},"modified":"2025-11-19T14:29:29","modified_gmt":"2025-11-19T14:29:29","slug":"flat-rack-dimensions-weight-limits-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/flat-rack-abmessungen-gewichtslimits-2025","title":{"rendered":"Flat rack dimensions &amp; weight limits 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why flat racks will be so important in 2025<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Large machinery, boats or oversized pallets \u2013 when cargo does not fit into a standard container, the flat rack (FR) becomes the preferred solution. With a sturdy floor, two end walls (hinged or fixed) and no side walls, it is ideal for out-of-gauge shipments. Knowing the exact dimensions and weights saves time, money and hassle. This guide provides you with the most important data, practical tips and checklists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flat rack: overview of designs, uses and limitations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">designs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Collapsible Ends<\/strong>Foldable front walls, space-saving when empty, versatile.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fixed Ends<\/strong>: Fixed end walls often have a higher load capacity, but are less flexible for return transport.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>40\u2032 high cube flat rack<\/strong>: Higher construction (9\u20326\u2033), specific to shipping companies, relevant for stowage heights and lashings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Typical applications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Extra-wide machines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excess height (e.g. generators)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heavy goods with concentrated loads (e.g. construction machinery)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rollable units (only with suitable lashing points)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong> Load capacities vary depending on the shipping company and year of manufacture. For 20\u2032 FRs, MGWs of up to 45,000 kg are common, and for 40\u2032 FRs, up to 60,000 kg \u2013 the payload is always MGW minus tare weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Standardised external dimensions according to ISO<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>ISO 668 specifies the external dimensions of containers: 20\u2032 or 40\u2032 length, 8\u2032 width, 8\u20326\u2033 height. Flat racks follow these dimensions to ensure stackability and craneability. However, the internal dimensions vary depending on the end wall type and floor frame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Typical flat rack dimensions and weights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Typical values (bandwidths per carrier):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>20\u2032 flat rack<\/strong><br>External dimensions: 6.058 \u00d7 2.438 \u00d7 2.591 m<br>Internal dimensions: approx. 5.94 \u00d7 2.35 \u00d7 2.15\u20132.30 m<br>MGW: up to 45,000 kg<br>Tare weight: ~4.8\u20135.5 t<br>Payload: ~30\u201340 tonnes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>40\u2032 flat rack<\/strong><br>External dimensions: 12,192 \u00d7 2,438 \u00d7 2,591 m<br>Internal dimensions: approx. 11.7\u201312.0 \u00d7 2.35 \u00d7 1.95\u20132.30 m<br>MGW: up to 60,000 kg<br>Tare weight: ~5.5\u20136.5 t<br>Payload: ~35\u201339 tonnes<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding MGW, tare weight, payload and ground load<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>MGW (Maximum Gross Weight):<\/strong> Maximum weight including tare<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tara:<\/strong> Net weight of the empty flat rack<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Payload:<\/strong> MGW minus tare<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Floor load\/point load:<\/strong> Critical with concentrated loads \u2013 always distribute and secure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> For point loads such as wheel loaders, use load distribution plates and secure the load in accordance with the CTU Code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Calculating out-of-gauge (OOG) shipments correctly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Extra width:<\/strong> Over 2,438 metres, depending on terminal and routing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Excess height:<\/strong> Possible, but limited by header, lash options and route<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Excess length:<\/strong> Pay attention to front walls, especially with collapsible versions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Routing:<\/strong> \u2192 Timetables<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Packing &amp; Securing according to CTU Code<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The CTU Code is the international standard for the safe packing of container cargo units. It is also mandatory for flat racks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Important principles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Weight distribution:<\/strong> Centre of gravity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Laschung:<\/strong> Only tested equipment (chains, belts, wire ropes)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Protective measures:<\/strong> Edge protectors, anti-slip mats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Documentation:<\/strong> Packing list, photographic evidence, certificates<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2192 Further information: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imo.org\/en\/OurWork\/Safety\/Pages\/CTU-Code.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IMO - CTU Code<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practical examples of flat rack cargo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Construction machinery:<\/strong> Distribute wheel loads, choose the right chains<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tractor units:<\/strong> Alternative to RoRo shipping \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/what-do-i-have-to-consider-with-a-roro-shipment\/\">What do I need to bear in mind for a RoRo shipment?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Yachts\/boats:<\/strong> Spreader bars, keel supports, check height<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Steel modules:<\/strong> Note tipping moments and contact surface<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Decision-making aid: Flat rack vs. RoRo vs. Open top<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Criterion<\/th><th>flat rack<\/th><th>RoRo<\/th><th>Open Top<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>OOG suitability<\/td><td>Very good<\/td><td>Limited<\/td><td>Good<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>packing effort<\/td><td>High<\/td><td>Low<\/td><td>means<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Critical point loads<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><td>No<\/td><td>Partly<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>availability<\/td><td>Depending on the project<\/td><td>High<\/td><td>Higher<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cost structure<\/td><td>OOG + Laschung<\/td><td>Dimensions + Deck Space<\/td><td>surcharges<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Checklist: 10 steps to secure flat rack booking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>First of all:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Exact dimensions &amp; weight including attachments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document centre of gravity &amp; load points<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check lashing points on the load<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check routes &amp; timetables \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/driving-plans\/\">Timetables<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clarify insurance<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>When packing:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"6\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check &amp; distribute floor load<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create lashing plan with lashing equipment (SWL, LC)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Comply with CTU code + photo documentation<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>In the harbour:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"9\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check gate-in time slot &amp; equipment ID<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enter B\/L data correctly<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> Prices depend on the relationship, equipment, OOG dimensions and season \u2013 please request an individual quote for exact figures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ: Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which flat rack dimensions are binding?<\/strong><br>Only the data for the flat rack actually provided (equipment sheet) is binding. ISO 668 only defines the external dimensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How high can I build on a flat rack?<\/strong><br>Varies depending on route, header, CTU code and terminal conditions. Always check individually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How much can a flat rack carry?<\/strong><br>20 to 45 tonnes MGW, 40 to 60 tonnes MGW. The actual usable payload is usually 30\u201340 tonnes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why are point loads critical?<\/strong><br>Because they can cause local overloads. Distribute the load and secure it in accordance with the CTU Code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Which is better \u2013 RoRo or flat rack?<\/strong><br>RoRo is ideal for roadworthy units. Flat racks are better for oversized or non-roadworthy cargo. \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/what-do-i-have-to-consider-with-a-roro-shipment\/\">What do I need to bear in mind for a RoRo shipment?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion: Success with data, CTU code and the right setup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Flat rack shipping requires precise measurements, CTU code-compliant securing, correct documentation and early planning. With this knowledge, project cargo can be handled safely and efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Disclaimer:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Warum Flat Racks 2025 so wichtig sind Gro\u00dfmaschinen, Boote oder \u00fcberhohe Paletten \u2013 wenn Ladung nicht in einen Standardcontainer passt, wird das Flat Rack (FR) zur bevorzugten L\u00f6sung. Mit stabilem Boden, zwei Stirnw\u00e4nden (klappbar oder fest) und ohne Seitenw\u00e4nde ist es ideal f\u00fcr Out-of-Gauge-Sendungen. Wer Ma\u00dfe und Gewichte exakt kennt, spart Zeit, Geld und \u00c4rger. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1047,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1046","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1046","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1046"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1046\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1048,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1046\/revisions\/1048"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1047"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1046"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1046"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1046"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}