40ft Flat Rack Dimensions
Shipping Containers of Birmingham supplies 40ft flat rack containers to businesses handling cargo that cannot fit within the walls of a standard unit. These specialist platforms are the industry standard for out-of-gauge (OOG) shipping. OOG refers to cargo that is too wide, too tall, or too long for a traditional closed container. By removing the side walls and roof, the flat rack allows for the transport of heavy plant machinery, large boilers, and structural steel.
We supply these units to construction firms, engineering hubs, and logistics providers throughout the West Midlands. Whether you need to buy shipping containers for permanent site use or arrange to hire containers for a specific project, the 40ft flat rack provides the heavy-duty foundation required for extreme loads.
Dimensions and Technical Capacity
The 40ft flat rack is built with a significantly thicker floor than a standard unit to handle high point loads. Every flat rack from Shipping Containers of Birmingham carries a valid CSC plate. The Container Safe Convention (CSC) plate is a safety certificate that confirms the unit is structurally fit for international transit. In technical terms, the tare weight is the weight of the empty container, while the payload is the maximum weight of the cargo you can safely load.
| Description |
Imperial |
Metric |
| Maximum Payload |
99,200 lb |
45,000 kg |
| External Length |
40 ft |
12.192 m |
| External Width |
8 ft |
2.438 m |
| External Height (Ends Erect) |
8 ft 6 in |
2.591 m |
| Internal Length (Between Posts) |
39 ft 5 in |
12.032 m |
| Internal Width |
7 ft 10 in |
2.400 m |
| Floor Depth |
25 in (approx) |
650 mm |
| Gross Weight |
110,230 lb |
50,000 kg |
| Tare Weight |
11,020 lb |
5,000 kg |
Payload capacity and floor depth vary between manufacturers and age of the unit. High Cube versions are also available with taller end walls for specific height requirements. If you have critical clearance needs, contact Shipping Containers of Birmingham for the precise measurements of our current stock. For heavy cargo that is shorter in length, the 20ft flat rack container may be a more efficient choice.
Key Structural Features
The 40ft flat rack is designed for extreme utility in harsh industrial environments. Shipping Containers of Birmingham ensures all units meet the high standards required for heavy lifting.
Collapsible End Walls
Our flat racks feature collapsible ends that fold flush into the floor structure. This serves two purposes. First, it allows the unit to carry cargo that exceeds 40 feet in length. Second, it allows several empty flat racks to be stacked together into a "bundle" for more efficient delivery and return. This significantly reduces transport costs when the units are empty.
Side and Overhead Loading
The absence of side walls and a roof allows for total loading freedom. You can use a crane to lower equipment directly onto the platform from above, or a heavy-duty forklift can load from either side. This is vital for wide machinery that would never pass through the doors of a standard 40ft shipping container.
Reinforced Lashing Points
Securing the load is the most critical part of using a flat rack. These units feature heavy-duty steel lashing rings welded along the side rails and the floor. These points allow you to use chains, binders, and straps to secure cargo firmly to the chassis. This prevents any movement during road transport or sea transit, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
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Delivery and Site Requirements
Shipping Containers of Birmingham delivers empty 40ft flat racks using HIAB vehicles. A HIAB is a truck equipped with a hydraulic crane arm. Due to the length of the 40ft unit, our delivery vehicles require a large turning circle and clear access. You must provide a level, hard-standing surface such as concrete or tarmac. Because flat racks concentrate their weight on the four corner posts, placing them on soft ground can cause the unit to sink or warp under heavy loads.
If you use a flat rack as a temporary bridge or platform on-site, you should check with your local council via the UK Planning Portal to ensure you meet any local safety or building requirements. While often classed as temporary equipment, permanent installations may need formal approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I protect my cargo from the weather on a flat rack?
Since flat racks have no roof or sides, they offer no weather protection. You must secure heavy-duty tarpaulins or industrial shrink wrap over your cargo to protect it from rain, wind, and sea spray. For goods that need a roof but still require top-loading, a 40ft open top container might be a better solution.
Can I stack flat racks when they are loaded?
You can stack other containers on top of a loaded flat rack only if the cargo does not protrude above the end-wall height. The end walls must be locked in the upright position to support the weight. If your cargo is over-height, the flat rack must be placed in the top slot of a stack during transit.
Are your used flat racks structurally sound?
Yes. We inspect every used unit to ensure the floor is solid, lashing points are intact, and the end walls lock correctly. Used units will show surface rust and dents, but they remain fit for heavy industrial use. You can read more about our inspection process on our about us page.
Do you deliver to central Birmingham?
We provide delivery throughout Birmingham, the Black Country, and the wider Midlands. We use satellite imagery to check your site access before we send a vehicle. For a full breakdown of costs, please visit our quote page.
