Flat rack containers are a type of specialised shipping container with open sides and no roof, making them suitable for transporting goods that exceed the dimensions of a standard enclosed container. They are available in two configurations: collapsible-end flatracks, where the end walls fold down when not in use to save space in storage and transit, and fixed-end (non-collapsible) flatracks, which offer greater structural rigidity for tougher conditions.

Both types feature built-in forklift pockets for easy on-site handling, and robust lashing devices rated to 5,000 kg on the top and bottom longitudinal rails and corner posts. Collapsible units can be interlocked in stacks of up to 7, fitting within the footprint of a single standard container - an efficient solution when empty units need to be stored or returned.

Flat rack containers are widely used across construction, mining, energy, aerospace, oiland gas, automotive, defence, and events industries. Willbox can advise on the most appropriate specification for your cargo requirements.

Learn more about shipping container sizes and their applications.

• Heavy machinery transport: Carry industrial machinery, turbines, generators, and large equipment that cannot be dismantled to fit inside a standard container.
• Construction materials: Transport steel bars, large pipes, timber, glass panels, and prefabricated structural components that overhang standard container dimensions.
• Vehicles and plant: Load cars, buses, trucks, and heavy plant equipment directly onto the flat platform for efficient road or sea transport.
• Boats and yachts: Securely transport leisure craft, small vessels, and marine equipment on the open platform with reliable lashing points.
• Oil and gas components: Move large valves, pressure vessels, drilling equipment, and pipeline sections for the energy sector.
• Aerospace and defence: Transport aircraft parts, military vehicles, and specialist equipment where standard enclosed containers are not viable.
• Waste and recycling: Use for the movement of bulky recyclable materials or large waste items to processing facilities.

1. Should I hire or buy a flat rack container?

Hire is well suited to one-off or occasional oversized cargo moves, while buying makes sense if you regularly transport heavy or irregularly shaped goods. Willbox offers flat rack containers for hire or purchase in 20ft and 40ft sizes.

2. Should I choose a fixed-end or collapsible-end flat rack?

Collapsible-end flat racks fold down when not in use, saving space in storage and transit, and can be interlocked in stacks of up to 7. Fixed-end units offer greater structural rigidity for tougher conditions, so the right choice depends on how often you'll be moving or storing the empty unit.

3. What can a flat rack container carry?

Flat racks are designed for cargo that exceeds the dimensions of a standard enclosed container, such as machinery, vehicles, boats, or large structural components. Lashing devices on the top and bottom rails and corner posts are rated to 5,000kg for secure loading.

4. How is cargo secured on a flat rack container?

With open sides and no roof, cargo is loaded from above or the sides and secured using robust lashing devices rated to 5,000kg. Built-in forklift pockets also make on-site handling straightforward.

5. What industries use flat rack containers?

They're widely used across construction, mining, energy, aerospace, oil and gas, automotive, defence, and events industries. Willbox can advise on the most appropriate specification, fixed or collapsible, for your specific cargo.

6. How is a flat rack container delivered given its open design?

Flat rack containers are delivered by HIAB or flatbed like standard units, but because they're often used for heavy or oversized cargo, you may need crane or forklift access on-site for loading once delivered. Willbox can advise on the best transport and handling method for your specific cargo.