20ft Used Flat Rack Container: Open Loading for Oversized and Heavy Cargo
The 20ft Used Flat Rack Container is designed for cargo that simply will not fit inside a standard enclosed container. With no side walls and an open top, this unit provides unrestricted access from all sides and above, allowing cranes, forklifts, and overhead gantries to load and secure items of virtually any width, height, or shape. Heavy machinery, construction equipment, large fabrications, vehicles, boats, pipe bundles, and irregularly shaped industrial components can all be secured to the flat rack using the integrated lashing rings positioned along the side rails, floor, and corner posts.
As a used unit, this flat rack has proven its durability through active shipping service and continues to provide reliable load bearing performance at a significantly reduced cost compared to new alternatives. The 28mm marine plywood floor remains solid and capable of supporting heavy concentrated loads, and the steel frame maintains its structural integrity for continued use in transport, storage, or creative repurposing applications.
How Flat Racks Work
A flat rack container consists of a heavy duty steel floor platform with end walls (bulkheads) but no side walls or roof. Cargo is placed directly onto the platform from the sides or above using cranes or forklifts, then secured to the lashing rings with chains, straps, or wire rope. The open sides mean there is no width restriction beyond the platform edges, and the absence of a roof means height is limited only by transport regulations rather than container dimensions. Some models feature collapsible end walls that fold flat when not in use, allowing empty flat racks to be stacked compactly for efficient storage and return shipping.
Key Features
- No side walls: Completely open sides allow loading and unloading from any lateral direction without height or width restrictions from container walls.
- Lashing rings: Multiple certified tie down points on the side rails, floor surface, and corner posts provide secure attachment for chains, straps, and tensioners.
- Collapsible design (select models): End walls fold flat for compact stacking when the flat rack is empty, reducing storage space and transport costs for returns.
- Forklift pockets: Integrated pockets allow the flat rack to be lifted and positioned using standard forklift equipment.
- 28mm marine plywood floor: A thick, durable deck over steel cross members provides a stable, load bearing surface for heavy items and equipment.
- Standard corner castings: Compatible with standard container handling equipment, chassis trailers, and stacking systems.
Specifications
| External Dimensions (L x W x H) | |
|---|---|
| Metric | 6,060 x 2,440 x 2,590 mm |
| Imperial | 19 ft 11 in x 8 ft x 8 ft 6 in |
| Internal Dimensions (L x W) | |
|---|---|
| Metric | 5,630 x 2,230 mm |
| Imperial | 18 ft 6 in x 7 ft 4 in |
| Weight and Floor | |
|---|---|
| Tare Weight | 2,740 kg (6,041 lbs) |
| Floor Type | 28mm marine plywood over steel cross members |
Construction
- Heavy duty steel frame: The base platform and end walls are fabricated from thick structural steel designed to support extreme concentrated loads without deflection.
- Reinforced corner posts: Corner fittings and posts are rated for stacking loads and crane lifting operations.
- Marine plywood deck: A solid floor surface that distributes weight evenly and provides grip for cargo placement.
- Used condition: The frame shows cosmetic wear from previous service but remains structurally sound and fully functional for continued heavy duty use.
Creative Repurposing
Beyond cargo transport, flat rack containers are frequently repurposed for applications that take advantage of their open design and strong floor platform:
- Elevated platforms and viewing decks
- Temporary bridges and access ramps
- Vehicle display and exhibition platforms
- Foundation bases for modular structures
- Loading docks and raised work platforms
Ideal Applications
- Heavy machinery and construction equipment transport
- Oversized fabrications and industrial components
- Vehicle and boat shipping
- Pipe, timber, and long material transport
- Wind turbine and energy sector components
- Military and defense equipment logistics
- Agricultural machinery and implements
- Creative construction and platform projects
No walls, no restrictions. Load from any direction and secure with confidence. Request a quote for delivery scheduling or to discuss collapsible end wall availability.
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