20ft Flat Rack Container

Overview

The 20 ft Flat Rack is a special equipment type designed for heavy-lift, over-width, or over-height cargo that cannot be transported in a standard closed container. With no side walls and no roof, it enables top and side loading and provides strong lashing points for securing cargo.

Ideal for top/side loading of heavy or oversized cargo

Open design supports out-of-gauge handling (within limits and approvals)

Strong focus on cargo securing/lashing due to exposed shipment

Specs may vary by manufacturer / container owner / fleet

20 ft Flat Rack Container Image Gallery

Best for / Not ideal for

Best for	Not ideal for
Machinery, pipes, steel products, and project cargo requiring top/side loading	Cargo requiring weather-tight protection without additional coverings (open platform exposure)
Over-width / over-height pieces that cannot fit through standard doors (subject to carrier approval)	Loose cartons or general palletized cargo when a standard dry container is available (flat rack is specialized equipment)
Heavy cargo needing robust securing and handling access from multiple sides	Temperature-controlled cargo (use reefer equipment)

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, oversized components, and equipment requiring side or top loading.
Mining equipment: heavy machinery, large parts, 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 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	7.33 ft
Height (Bottom)	0.370 m	1.21 ft

Capacity & weights – 20ft Flat Rack Container

Spec	Metric	Imperial
Max Gross Height	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 Flat Rack Container?

Pallet capacity varies by loading pattern and pallet 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 out-of-gauge and heavy cargo, so pallet counts are not a standard spec and can change significantly depending on how cargo must be lashed and whether access lanes are needed.

Handling recommendations

Keep weight evenly distributed (avoid concentrating weight toward the doors or on one side).

“Heavy on bottom”: Place heavier cargo at the bottom and keep the center of gravity low.

Use appropriate lashing / blocking & bracing and verify securing points and working load limits.

Confirm carrier requirements for over-width/over-height moves (often requires special stowage planning/approval).

Protect cargo from weather exposure using suitable coverings/packaging when required.

FAQs about 20 ft Flat Rack Containers

What is a 20 ft Flat Rack container used for?

A 20 ft Flat Rack is used to transport heavy, oversized, or awkward cargo that cannot be handled through standard container doors or fit within a closed box. Its open-sided design allows top and side loading and makes it suitable for machinery, pipes, and project cargo that needs special handling. Because dimensions and capacities vary by manufacturer and owner, confirm the exact unit when clearances and securing plans are critical.

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

Flat racks are not primarily specified by pallet count, because they are typically booked for out-of-gauge or heavy-lift cargo where lashing and access needs define the usable deck area. If you are loading palletized freight 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, but actual results vary with load pattern, bracing, and securing requirements.

Is a 20 ft Flat Rack container waterproof and sealed?

A flat rack is an open platform, so it does not provide the weather-tight protection of a standard closed container. Cargo is typically exposed to ambient conditions during transit unless you use appropriate coverings, wrapping, or specialized packaging. For cargo that is moisture-sensitive, plan protective measures and minimize exposure during handling. Always align packaging and protection with route conditions, terminal handling, and carrier requirements for securing and stowage.

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

Choose a Flat Rack when you need side loading or have over-width cargo that cannot be accommodated even with an open-top roof. An Open Top is often better when the cargo fits within container width but needs top loading due to height or handling constraints. In practice, the decision depends on cargo dimensions, lifting method, lashing plan, and any out-of-gauge approvals required by the carrier and terminals.

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

A 20 ft Flat Rack is not suitable for cargo that requires full enclosure, strict weather protection without additional packaging, or temperature control (reefer). It can also be a poor fit for loose general cargo where a standard container would be safer and easier to secure. Suitability depends on the cargo’s shape, center of gravity, lifting points, and how it will be lashed—so confirm securing and handling requirements before booking.