20ft Flat Rack Containers Felixstowe

What is a 20ft flat rack container?

A flat rack has a strong floor structure and end frames but no conventional side walls or roof. The ends may be fixed or collapsible depending on the design. Collapsible ends can be folded down when the rack is empty, which can reduce the space required for storing or moving empty units.

Lashing points are commonly incorporated into the side rails, floor area or corner structure so that suitable cargo can be restrained. The number, position and capacity of those points can vary, so they need to be checked against the particular load rather than assumed from the container type.

If the goods fit through normal cargo doors and need protection from the weather, a 20ft shipping container may be more appropriate. For cargo that needs top loading but would benefit from side walls, consider a 20ft open top container.

20ft flat rack dimensions

Flat rack dimensions vary between manufacturers and designs. One published specification for a used 20ft flat rack gives an external length of 6.06m, width of 2.44m and height of 2.59m. Its usable length is listed as 5.63m and its internal width as 2.23m.

Other 20ft flat rack specifications differ. Another published container specification lists a length of 5.97m, an inner length of 5.70m, a width of 2.36m and a height of 2.24m. That variation is why the actual unit specification matters when the cargo is close to a dimensional limit.

Do not use nominal 20ft length as the available loading length. End posts and structural components reduce usable space. The position of the end frames can also affect how long machinery or other cargo can sit within the rack.

What loads suit a flat rack?

The open design is useful where cargo is too wide, too tall or too awkward to pass through the doors of a standard container. Machinery, vehicles, construction equipment, pipes and other bulky items are typical examples of the kind of load for which a flat rack may be considered.

Loading method is just as important as cargo size. Side access can allow a forklift or other suitable handling equipment to approach the load without having to work through an end doorway. Open-top access can also suit loads that need to be lowered into place by crane.

Before selecting the flat rack, establish:

• the overall length, width, height and weight of the cargo;
• where its centre of gravity sits;
• how the load will be lifted onto and removed from the rack;
• whether any part of the cargo will extend beyond the normal container envelope;
• how the load will be restrained; and
• whether the goods can tolerate exposure to weather during storage or transport.

A flat rack solves an access problem, not every cargo problem. If the load needs enclosed protection, security or controlled conditions, another container type may be a better choice.

Fixed-end and collapsible flat racks

Fixed-end flat racks have end frames that remain upright. Collapsible models allow the end frames to fold down, which can make empty units easier to stack and transport. Some designs fold more completely than others, so confirm the arrangement if folded height or empty storage is important.

The end design can also affect the way cargo is positioned and restrained. Do not assume that a collapsible rack and fixed-end rack are interchangeable for a particular load. Check the structural specification, lashing arrangements and intended transport method first.

If the 20ft format does not give enough usable length, consider a 40ft flat rack container. Moving to 40ft can provide significantly more loading length, but it also changes handling, delivery and site-space requirements.

Buying or hiring a 20ft flat rack

Buying may suit a continuing handling, storage or transport requirement where the rack will be used repeatedly. Hire can be more appropriate for a defined project or temporary need where ownership would add little value.

For purchase, ask about condition, repairs, floor condition, end-frame operation and the available lashing points. Used flat racks have normally been working equipment, so cosmetic wear is less important than whether the structure and fittings are suitable for the intended job.

For hire, confirm the permitted use, hire period, responsibility for damage and collection arrangements. Cargo restraint equipment, lifting arrangements and any alterations should also be discussed before use. Do not drill, weld or modify a hired flat rack without agreement.

Using a flat rack for export shipping

Flat racks are widely associated with oversized and heavy cargo shipping, but having the right container type does not by itself make a load acceptable for export. The specific unit, CSC status, load weight, dimensions, securing arrangement and shipping line acceptance all need to be checked.

Cargo extending beyond the normal width, height or length of the container may be treated as out-of-gauge cargo. That can affect handling, stowage and transport arrangements. The applicable limits and acceptance criteria depend on the carrier, route, equipment and cargo.

For export use, confirm the container’s current CSC status and cargo suitability rather than relying on a flat rack description or an old plate. The Shippers Own Containers guide explains related CSC, VGM and documentation points.

Check VGM, documentation, customs, insurance, Incoterms 2020 and carrier requirements with the relevant shipping line, freight forwarder, customs agent, insurer or professional adviser. These requirements can vary by shipment and destination.

Securing cargo to a flat rack

The load needs to remain stable during lifting, handling and any onward transport. Flat racks can have lashing rings or securing points, but their presence does not confirm that a particular restraint arrangement is adequate.

The cargo weight, shape and centre of gravity all affect the securing method. Heavy machinery with a high centre of gravity may need a different arrangement from a long, low load of steelwork. Restraints also need to work with the actual securing points provided on the rack.

Use useful competent advice where lifting or securing requirements are not straightforward. For export movements, the carrier or freight forwarder may also have requirements for how the load is secured and presented.

Prepare the Felixstowe site for delivery

A 20ft flat rack needs more working space than its footprint suggests. Delivery and loading may involve a HIAB vehicle, crane, forklift or other handling equipment depending on the job. The site therefore needs enough room for the vehicle, stabilisers where applicable and the intended lifting operation.

Check the access route, gate width, turning space and ground before delivery is agreed. Tell the supplier about overhead cables, branches, structures, slopes and soft ground. The proposed drop point also needs to be within a workable lifting position from the delivery vehicle.

Flat racks should be placed on firm, reasonably level support suited to the rack and load. Poor support can lead to settlement or instability, particularly once heavy cargo is added. Drainage should also be considered so the base is not left standing in persistent water.

The guide to shipping container placement covers the main site checks to make before delivery.

Planning and continued use in Felixstowe

Planning and other site requirements can depend on how the flat rack will be used, how long it will remain, the status of the site, neighbouring property, listed status, conservation areas, any change of use and associated works.

Requirements can also differ where the rack is being used as part of a structure rather than simply for temporary cargo handling. Do not assume that permission is always required or always unnecessary. Check the current position with the relevant local council for the particular site and intended use.

Choosing the right container for the load

Start with the cargo rather than the equipment. Record its overall dimensions and weight, decide how it will be lifted and identify whether side or overhead loading is genuinely necessary. Then check whether the load needs weather protection and how it will be secured.

If a 20ft flat rack is suitable, ask for the dimensions and condition of the actual unit rather than relying on nominal figures. For longer loads, compare the 40ft option. For cargo that only needs roof access, an open top may provide better protection around the sides.

You can compare the wider container equipment range before deciding. When you request a container quote, include the load dimensions, weight, intended use, sale or hire requirement, delivery location and how the cargo will be loaded. That gives a much clearer basis for assessing the equipment required.