Flat Rack Containers in Liverpool – Transport Oversized Loads Easily
Transporting oversized or irregularly shaped cargo presents unique challenges. Standard shipping containers simply do not accommodate industrial machinery, large vehicles, pipes, or construction materials. Flat rack containers provide the ideal solution. With open sides and robust end walls, these specialised units make loading, securing, and transporting bulky items safer and significantly more efficient. Acorn Containers supplies high-quality flat rack containers throughout the Liverpool area and across the UK, offering flexible solutions for your specific transport needs.
What are Flat Rack Containers?
Flat rack containers are a type of shipping container designed specifically for cargo that exceeds the dimensions or weight capacity of standard box containers. They consist of a strong base (the "flat") and either fixed or collapsible end walls. This design allows for cargo to be loaded from the top or sides, providing unparalleled flexibility for oversized items. Lashing points are integrated into the container frame, ensuring secure fastening of the load during transit.
Key Benefits of Using Flat Rack Containers:
- Accommodate oversized and heavy cargo not suitable for standard containers.
- Allow easy loading and unloading from the top or sides.
- Provide multiple lashing points for secure cargo fastening.
- Available with collapsible end walls for efficient stacking and storage when empty.
20ft Flat Rack Containers in Liverpool
Our 20ft flat rack containers offer a reliable and versatile option for transporting a wide range of oversized items. These units are built to withstand the rigours of international and domestic transport, compliant with ISO standards and carrying a valid CSC plate. Their manageable size makes them suitable for diverse applications, from moving smaller plant equipment to transporting industrial components. The collapsible end walls facilitate efficient stacking, reducing storage and return transport costs.
Applications for 20ft Flat Racks:
- Small to medium-sized machinery
- Pipes and steel beams
- Boats and vehicles
- Building materials
20ft Flat Rack Specifications (Typical):
| Feature | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 6.058 m | 19 ft 10.5 in |
| External Width | 2.438 m | 8 ft 0 in |
| External Height | 2.591 m | 8 ft 6 in |
| Internal Usable Length (between end walls) | 5.8 m | 19 ft 0.3 in |
| Internal Usable Width | 2.2 m - 2.438 m (varies by design) | 7 ft 2.6 in - 8 ft 0 in |
| Tare Weight (approx) | 2,300 kg - 2,700 kg | 5,070 lbs - 5,950 lbs |
| Max Gross Weight (approx) | 30,480 kg - 34,000 kg | 67,200 lbs - 74,950 lbs |
| Payload (approx) | 27,780 kg - 31,700 kg | 61,130 lbs - 69,000 lbs |
40ft Flat Rack Containers in Liverpool
For larger and heavier loads, our 40ft flat rack containers provide maximum capacity and strength. These units are essential for transporting significant plant and machinery, large structural components, and other items that demand substantial length and support. Like their 20ft counterparts, 40ft flat racks are fully compliant with international standards and feature robust lashing points for secure transportation. The collapsible end walls remain a key feature, improving logistics when the containers are not in use.
Applications for 40ft Flat Racks:
- Large industrial machinery
- Oversized vehicles and construction equipment
- Wind turbine components
- Large pre-fabricated structures
40ft Flat Rack Specifications (Typical):
| Feature | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 12.192 m | 40 ft 0 in |
| External Width | 2.438 m | 8 ft 0 in |
| External Height | 2.591 m | 8 ft 6 in |
| Internal Usable Length (between end walls) | 11.8 m | 38 ft 8.5 in |
| Internal Usable Width | 2.2 m - 2.438 m (varies by design) | 7 ft 2.6 in - 8 ft 0 in |
| Tare Weight (approx) | 4,900 kg - 5,300 kg | 10,800 lbs - 11,680 lbs |
| Max Gross Weight (approx) | 45,000 kg | 99,210 lbs |
| Payload (approx) | 39,700 kg - 40,100 kg | 87,530 lbs - 88,330 lbs |
Choosing the Right Flat Rack Container in Liverpool
Selecting the correct flat rack container depends entirely on the dimensions and weight of your cargo. Consider the maximum length, width, and height of the item you need to transport, ensuring it fits within the internal usable dimensions of the chosen flat rack size. Also, verify the weight of your cargo against the container's maximum payload capacity. Our team in Liverpool provides expert advice to help you determine the most suitable flat rack for your specific transport requirements.
Flat Rack Container Hire and Purchase in Liverpool
Acorn Containers offers flexible options for acquiring flat rack containers in the Liverpool area. You can choose to hire a container for a specific project or duration, providing a cost-effective solution for temporary needs. Alternatively, purchasing a flat rack offers a long-term asset for ongoing transport requirements. We supply both new and used containers, ensuring you find an option that meets your budget and operational needs. All units are inspected to guarantee seaworthiness and structural integrity.
Delivery and Logistics in Liverpool
We provide efficient nationwide delivery of flat rack containers, including comprehensive coverage throughout Liverpool and the surrounding regions. Our logistics team arranges transport using specialist vehicles equipped to handle oversized cargo. We frequently use HIAB-assisted vehicles which feature a crane, enabling offloading at your specified location even where lifting equipment is not readily available.
When you need to transport oversized or heavy cargo in or around Liverpool, flat rack containers from Acorn Containers provide the robust and flexible solution you require. Our range of 20ft and 40ft units, available for hire or purchase, meets the demands of diverse industrial and commercial applications. Contact us today to discuss your project and get a competitive quote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flat Rack Containers
What cargo is suitable for flat rack containers?
Flat racks are suitable for cargo that is too wide, too high, or too heavy to fit inside a standard container. This includes heavy machinery, vehicles, boats, large pipes, steel coils, and oversized building materials.
Are flat rack containers waterproof?
Flat rack containers have open sides and often open tops, so they are not waterproof in the way a standard box container is. Cargo transported on a flat rack usually requires protective wrapping or sheeting to shield it from the elements during transit.
Can flat rack containers be stacked?
Yes, flat rack containers with collapsible end walls are designed to be stacked when empty, significantly reducing storage space requirements.
Do flat rack containers have fixed or collapsible ends?
Flat rack containers are available with either fixed end walls or collapsible end walls. Collapsible ends are more common as they allow for efficient stacking.
Are flat rack containers suitable for sea transport?
Yes, providing they are ISO certified and have a valid CSC plate, flat rack containers are designed and approved for international sea transport, as well as road and rail.