20ft Collapsible Flat Rack Container

Overview

The 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack is special equipment designed for heavy-lift and out-of-gauge cargo that cannot be shipped in a closed container. Its open platform design supports top and side loading, while the collapsible end walls provide flexibility for handling and stowage planning.

Open platform for top/side loading of oversized or heavy cargo

Collapsible flat rack type (ISO 22PC / 22P3)

Requires strong focus on weight distribution and lashing for safe transport

Specs may vary by manufacturer / fleet

20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack Container Image Gallery

Best for / Not ideal for

Best for	Not ideal for
Heavy machinery, industrial components, and project cargo requiring crane handling	Cargo requiring full weather-tight protection without additional coverings (open exposure)
Over-width / over-height pieces (subject to carrier planning and approvals)	Loose general cargo better suited to a closed dry container
Cargo that benefits from side access for positioning and robust lashing	Temperature-controlled cargo (reefer required)

Industries & typical commodities

Heavy machinery: construction equipment, industrial machinery, generators, and heavy components.
Construction / Project cargo: pipes, structural steel, fabricated sections, and large project materials.
Energy / Infrastructure: transformers, turbines, large components, and equipment requiring special stowage.
Mining equipment: heavy parts, machinery, and oversized components.
Manufacturing: large fabricated components, crated machinery, and industrial assemblies.
Vehicles and equipment: specialized vehicles or equipment that cannot fit inside a closed container.
Steel and metal products: beams, plates, coils, and other oversized metal cargo when properly secured.

Sizes & dimensions – 20ft Collapsible Flat Rack Container

Dimension	Metric	Imperial
Inside Length	5.638 m	18.50 ft
Inside Width	2.438 m	8.00 ft
Floor Width	2.194 m	7.20 ft
Inside Height (min.)	2.233 m	7.32 ft
Height (Bottom)	0.370 m	1.21 ft

Capacity & weights – 20ft Collapsible Flat Rack Container

Spec	Metric	Imperial
Max Gross Weight	45,000 kg	99,200 lbs
Tare Weight	2,900 kg	6,400 lbs
Max Payload	42,100 kg	92,800 lbs

How many pallets fit in a 20ft Collapsible Flat Rack Container?

Pallet capacity varies by loading pattern and cargo type. Use the estimates below only as a quick reference:

US standard pallets: up to 10

Euro pallets: up to 11

Note: flat racks are primarily used for heavy/oversized cargo, so usable deck space is often driven by lashing needs, access lanes, and approved overhang rather than pallet count.

Handling recommendations

Keep weight evenly distributed along length and width so the center of gravity is not “off-centre.”

Do not stow over-width cargo (or blocking/bracing) within 30 cm (12″) of the corner posts if under-deck stowage is required.

Ensure out-of-gauge measurements are accurate and include lashing equipment (incorrect declaration can cause mis-rating or short-shipment).

No welding/drilling/modifying the flat rack structure.

Use proper bedding so weight transfers to the main girders/bottom rails; avoid placing heavy weights solely on the wooden floor.

Use suitable lashing materials and methods (cross/loop lashings as applicable); avoid friction/“over the top” lashings as they don’t prevent transverse motion.

FAQs about 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack Containers

What is a 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack container used for?

A 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack is used to transport heavy, oversized, or awkward cargo that cannot be shipped in a standard closed container. Its open platform supports top and side loading, making it suitable for machinery, steel products, and project cargo that requires crane handling. Because cargo is exposed, planning focuses on footprint, weight distribution, and lashing. Specifications can vary by manufacturer and fleet, so confirm the exact unit for tight clearances.

How many pallets fit in a 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack container?

Flat racks are not primarily defined by pallet count, since they’re typically booked for out-of-gauge or heavy-lift cargo where lashing and access needs determine usable deck space. If palletized cargo is loaded fully within the end walls and without overhang, a rough 20 ft footprint estimate is up to 10 US pallets or up to 11 Euro pallets in a single layer. Actual results vary with securing requirements, access lanes, and any approved overhang.

Is a 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack container waterproof and sealed?

A collapsible flat rack is an open platform, so it does not provide weather-tight protection like a standard dry container. Cargo may be exposed to rain, spray, and sunlight unless protected with appropriate wrapping, tarps, or specialized packaging. If your cargo is moisture-sensitive, plan protection in advance and minimize exposure during handling. Protection requirements should match the full route and the securing plan used for ocean transport.

When should I choose a Collapsible Flat Rack vs Open Top container?

Choose a Collapsible Flat Rack when you need side loading or have over-width cargo that an Open Top cannot accommodate. An Open Top is often preferred when cargo fits within container width but requires top loading due to height or handling constraints. The best choice depends on cargo dimensions, lifting method, lashing points, and carrier approvals for out-of-gauge stowage and routing.

What cargo is not suitable for a 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack container?

A 20 ft Collapsible Flat Rack is not suitable for cargo that requires full enclosure, strict weather protection without added packaging, or temperature control. It can also be a poor fit for loose general cargo where a standard container would be safer and easier to secure. Suitability depends heavily on cargo geometry, center of gravity, and the lashing plan—so confirm securing and handling requirements before booking.