40' flat rack container

Specifications

40' flat rack

Length: 12.06 m
Length (inner): 11.66 m
Width: 2.37 m
Height: 2.28 m

Max payload: 39.30 t

ISO code: 42P1

Facts

A 40' flat rack container is suitable for transporting oversized or excessive cargo. It can be transport of e.g. pipes and machines. Flat rack containers of 40 feet have a tare weight of 4,900 kilos and it can load up to approx. 40,000 kilos. 40-foot flat rack has a volume of 51 m3.

Due to the lower tare weight than with multi-sided containers, a flat rack can hold more weight. The 40' flat rack container has an inside length of 11.66 metres and an inside width of 2.37 metres. The height is 2.28 metres. Some flat rack containers are collapsible when not in use.

When should you choose a 40-foot flat rack container?

A 40-foot flat rack container is designed for cargo that is too large, too heavy or too difficult to load into a standard dry container. With no fixed side walls or roof, it provides flexibility for oversized cargo that requires crane loading, side loading or special handling.

This container type is often used when the cargo exceeds standard container dimensions, but can still be safely secured on a container platform. It is particularly suitable for long, wide or heavy cargo where loading access and cargo securing are key requirements.

40-foot flat rack containers are available in both high-cube and standard-height versions. As a general guideline, the maximum stuffing height before cargo is considered out of gauge is approximately 223 cm for a high-cube flat rack and approximately 193 cm for a standard-height flat rack. The maximum stuffing width is approximately 243 cm for both container types. These measurements should always be confirmed before booking, as they may vary depending on the specific equipment.

Before booking a 40-foot flat rack container, it is important to assess the cargo dimensions, weight distribution and securing requirements. Oversized cargo may require special permits, route planning or additional handling at ports, terminals and final delivery locations.

A flat rack container can carry heavy cargo, but the cargo must be positioned and secured correctly to ensure safe transport. Lashing points, weight distribution and centre of gravity should always be considered, especially for machinery or irregularly shaped cargo.

Compared with a standard 40-foot dry container, a flat rack offers more flexibility for out-of-gauge cargo. However, it may also require more planning, as cargo that exceeds the container width or height can affect handling, stowage and transport costs.

Although container dimensions are standardised, actual measurements and payload may vary depending on the specific equipment and availability. For heavy, oversized or project cargo, the specifications should always be confirmed before transport.

Blue Water’s sea freight and project logistics specialists can help assess whether a 40-foot flat rack container is the right solution for your cargo. We consider dimensions, weight, lifting method, route and delivery requirements to help ensure safe and efficient transport.

A 20-foot dry container is often used for:

Heavy machinery and industrial equipment

Pipes, steel structures and construction materials

Vehicles and large spare parts

Project cargo and oversized components

Cargo that must be loaded by crane

Goods that are too wide or too high for a dry container

Cargo requiring special lashing and securing

Heavy shipments where payload capacity is important

Frequently Asked Questions

A 40-foot flat rack container is used for heavy, oversized or irregularly shaped cargo that does not fit inside a standard dry container. Typical cargo includes machinery, pipes, steel structures, vehicles and industrial equipment.

You should choose a flat rack container when your cargo is too wide, too high or too difficult to load through the doors of a standard dry container. It is also suitable for cargo that needs to be loaded from above or from the side.

Yes. A 40-foot flat rack container is designed for heavy cargo and has a high payload capacity. However, the cargo must be correctly positioned and secured before transport.

Yes. A flat rack is often used for out-of-gauge cargo that exceeds standard container dimensions. Oversized cargo may require additional planning, permits and special handling.

No. A flat rack container does not have fixed side walls or a roof. This makes it easier to load large or irregular cargo by crane or from the side.

You should check cargo dimensions, total weight, weight distribution, lifting method, lashing requirements and any restrictions on the transport route.

Yes. Dimensions and payload may vary depending on the specific equipment. Always confirm the details before booking, especially for heavy or oversized cargo.

Container types and sizes

Please note! Dimensions are a guideline only. For exact dimensions and container directions, please contact Blue Water. Containers for heavy cargo are available on request.

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