Key Benefits of Flat-Rack Containers
Flat-Rack Containers
Flat-rack containers provide the ultimate solution for transporting heavy, irregularly shaped, or oversized items that do not fit in standard shipping containers.
With reinforced floors and collapsible or fixed-end walls, these robust units enable the safe shipping of equipment, vehicles, timber, pipes, and other large, heavy loads throughout New Zealand and the Pacific.
SEA Containers has established itself as New Zealand’s trusted provider of flat-rack container solutions with over 20 years of industry experience.
Our comprehensive range of 20ft and 40ft flat-rack containers are ideal for loading goods and machinery across construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
Types and Sizes of Flat-Rack Containers
20ft Flat-Rack Container
Our 20ft flat-rack containers deliver powerful performance in a compact package. These units excel at transporting medium-sized equipment, construction materials, steel products, and timber.
Their versatile design perfectly suits the regional transport of agricultural equipment and manufacturing components that exceed standard container dimensions.
40ft Flat-Rack Container
The extended length of 40ft flat-rack containers makes them perfect for easily loading long steel beams, large machinery, boats, vehicles, and prefabricated building components.
Their exceptional length-to-cost ratio allows efficient shipping of multiple items or extra-long cargo in a single flat-rack container, reducing costs and logistical complexity.
Practical Uses of Flat-Rack Containers Across Industries
Machinery Transport
Flat-rack containers feature an open design that accommodates irregular shapes and heavy loads while providing multiple lashing points for secure transit on container ships—perfect for construction machinery and industrial equipment.
Construction Industry
From steel beams and prefabricated components to specialised machinery, flat-rack shipping containers offer the perfect solution for moving essential building materials to remote sites across New Zealand.
Oil, Gas, and Energy Sectors
The robust construction of flat-rack containers makes them ideal for transporting heavy pipes, drilling equipment, and structural components essential to energy sector operations throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
Agricultural Equipment Shipping
Flat-rack shipping containers provide farmers with a practical solution for moving tractors, harvesters, and irrigation equipment between properties or to remote locations, with multiple lashing points for securing heavy machinery.
Military and Defence Applications
Defence organisations rely on flat-rack containers for moving tactical vehicles and operational assets securely between bases or to training grounds, with high-grade construction meeting strict durability standards.
Customer Testimonials
What is a Flat-Rack Container
A flat-rack container is essentially a steel shipping container without sides or a roof, featuring a reinforced floor structure and either fixed or collapsible-end walls.
Designed specifically for oversized or irregularly shaped cargo that exceeds the dimensional limitations of standard shipping containers.
Unlike standard containers with enclosed sides and roofs, flat racks provide an open platform with securing points along the base and end walls, allowing for top and side loading of cargo.
This open design accommodates extra-wide, extra-tall, or irregularly shaped items while maintaining compatibility with standard container handling equipment.
We offer containers with fixed ends as well as containers where the short sides can fold down.
How to Safely Load and Secure Cargo on Flat-Rack Containers
Proper loading begins with careful preparation of the flat-rack surface, followed by strategic positioning of cargo to ensure balanced weight distribution.
All securing must comply with New Zealand transport regulations, with heavy items positioned directly over the container’s main structural supports and appropriate blocking and bracing to prevent shifting.
Our Process
Step 1: Expert Consultation and Assessment
Our container specialists will analyse your cargo dimensions, weight distribution, and transportation requirements to recommend the optimal flat-rack shipping container for your specific needs.
Step 2: Select the Right Flat-Rack Shipping Container
Choose from our extensive inventory of 20ft and 40ft flat-rack shipping containers, all thoroughly inspected to ensure structural integrity, clean surfaces, and properly functioning components.
Step 3: Quote and Confirmation
Receive a comprehensive, transparent quote with no hidden costs. We clearly outline all aspects of your flat-rack container purchase or hire agreement so you can make an informed decision.
Step 4: Delivery and Logistics Support
Our experienced logistics team will coordinate efficient flat-rack container transport to your location, working around your schedule and site access requirements to ensure timely transportation.
Step 5: After-Sales Support
Count on ongoing guidance for cargo securement techniques, maintenance recommendations, and future container requirements as your business needs evolve.
Why Choose SEA Containers NZ
With over seven decades of experience, SEA Containers brings unparalleled knowledge of fixed-end and collapsible flat-rack shipping containers throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
Our team understands the unique challenges of oversized cargo transport across diverse terrain and maritime routes.
We offer a wide range of shipping container solutions, enabling us to recommend the most appropriate option for your specific storage and transportation requirements instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all approach.
Our extensive logistics network spans the entire country, ensuring timely delivery of your flat-rack container from Auckland to Invercargill and everywhere in between.
We coordinate directly with transport providers to streamline the entire process, allowing you to focus on your core business while we handle the transportation logistics.
Get a Quote or Speak with Our Experts Today
Ready to solve your oversized cargo shipping challenges? Contact SEA Containers today at 0508 732266 or complete our online form for a free and instant no-obligation quote.
Our steel container specialists will provide expert guidance on selecting the perfect fixed-end or collapsible flat-rack container for your specific requirements.
SEA Containers has been recognised as a 2022 Master of Growth Index Awardee on the prestigious Deloitte Fast 50.
Our strategic partnership with Farmlands Co-operative enables us to provide specialised container solutions tailored to the unique requirements of New Zealand’s agricultural sector.
FAQs About Flat-Rack Containers
Flat-rack container capacity depends on size. Generally, these containers can hold several tons, making them ideal for loading building materials and equipment. For specific information, please contact us.
Effective securing combines proper weight distribution with appropriate lashing techniques using chains, straps, blocks, and braces tailored to your specific cargo type.
Yes, SEA Containers offers flexible lease options for flat-rack containers throughout New Zealand, with short-term and long-term arrangements available.
While compatible with conventional container handling equipment, oversized cargo may require special transport permits and route planning, which our logistics team can coordinate.
Flat racks have end walls and conform to ISO container standards, allowing empty stacking. Flatbeds are completely flat platforms without walls. Flat racks integrate with standard container shipping systems, while flatbeds require different handling methods.
Standard 40′ flat rack dimensions:
- Length: 12.2m (40′)
- Width: 2.44m (8′)
- Height: 2.13-2.59m (7-8.5′)
- Payload capacity: 35,000-40,000kg
Disadvantages include:
- Weather exposure
- Security vulnerabilities
- Requires extensive cargo securing
- Higher rental costs
- Cannot be stacked when loaded
- Requires specialised handling
- Potentially higher insurance costs
Flat rack containers are ideal for transporting oversized items such as machinery, vehicles, and boats.
Flat rack container capacity depends on its size, but generally, they can hold several tons. For specific information, please contact us.
Prices vary based on size, condition, and modifications needed. For an accurate quote, please get in touch with us.
Absolutely. We offer delivery services throughout New Zealand, ensuring the safe and timely arrival of your shipping container.