--- title: "20ft Flat rack container for sale London" description: "Buy 20ft flat rack shipping containers from Shipping Containers of London. These containers are ideal for oversized cargo and offer versatile loading, durability, and customisation options." url: "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/buy-containers/20ft-flat-rack" date: "2026-04-21T17:37:48+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- ![Flat Rack Containers](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/20ftFR-London.jpg) # 20ft Flat Rack Shipping Containers for Sale in London Moving cargo that exceeds standard shipping dimensions, known as Out-of-Gauge (OOG) freight, requires specific equipment. For construction firms in [Newham](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/areas-covered/east/sales/shipping-container-sales-newham) or engineers in [Tower Hamlets](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/areas-covered/east/sales/shipping-container-sales-tower-hamlets), the 20ft flat rack is the industry standard solution. Unlike high-cube or general-purpose containers, flat racks lack side walls and a roof, allowing cranes to load heavy plant machinery, timber, or steel pipes directly from above. At Shipping Containers of London, we supply ISO-compliant flat racks tested for heavy payloads. Whether you need a static base for a generator or a certified unit for international export, we provide the hardware and the transport logistics to get it to your site. ## Technical Configuration: Fixed vs Collapsible We stock two variations of the 20ft flat rack. Your choice depends on your operational needs regarding stacking and loading. - **Collapsible End Flat Racks:** The end walls (bulkheads) fold flush with the floor. This allows you to stack up to four empty units in a single container footprint, significantly reducing return freight costs. - **Fixed End Flat Racks:** The end walls are rigid and welded. These offer higher top-load strength for stacking loaded units on deck but take up more space when empty. Both types feature a heavy-duty steel frame and a thick softwood or marine plywood floor designed to withstand high point loads. ![A large, wrapped container is being lifted by a crane against a cloudy sky.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/flat-racks-london4_original.jpg) ![A truck trailer loaded with colorful stacked panels, parked in a bare area under a cloudy sky.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/flat-racks-london3_original.jpg) ![A blue shipping container is seen alongside wooden planks and green containers in a storage yard.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/flat-racks-london2_original.jpg) ![A wooden loading surface with a green container background and a logo overlay indicating shipping services.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/flat-racks-london1_original.jpg) ![A blue industrial platform with wheels, resting on a gritty surface, featuring a logo and nearby containers.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/flat-racks-london_original.jpg) ![A large, wrapped container is being lifted by a crane against a cloudy sky.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/thumb/flat-racks-london4_original.jpg) ![A truck trailer loaded with colorful stacked panels, parked in a bare area under a cloudy sky.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/thumb/flat-racks-london3_original.jpg) ![A blue shipping container is seen alongside wooden planks and green containers in a storage yard.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/thumb/flat-racks-london2_original.jpg) ![A wooden loading surface with a green container background and a logo overlay indicating shipping services.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/thumb/flat-racks-london1_original.jpg) ![A blue industrial platform with wheels, resting on a gritty surface, featuring a logo and nearby containers.](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/media/spgallery/177/thumb/flat-racks-london_original.jpg) ## Dimensions and Payload Capacity Understanding the exact load capabilities is vital for safety. While standard containers rely on the corrugated walls for strength, flat racks rely entirely on the bottom rail chassis. | Specification | Metric | Imperial | |---|---|---| | External Length | 6.06 m | 19ft 10.5in | | Internal Length (Between Ends) | 5.94 m | 19ft 5in | | External Width | 2.44 m | 8ft | | Max Gross Weight | 34,000 kg | 74,960 lbs | | Tare Weight (Unladen) | 2,740 kg | 6,040 lbs | | Max Payload | 31,260 kg | 68,920 lbs | *Note: Weights are indicative of standard ISO 1496-5 manufacture. Check the specific CSC plate on your unit for exact limits.* ## Critical Delivery Constraints Delivering a 3-tonne steel base requires precise site preparation. We use HIAB cranes for offloading, and our operating licences dictate strict safety zones. Based on our internal [delivery protocols](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/delivery-guidelines), you must verify these three factors before we dispatch: 1. **Hard-Standing Only:** The vehicle outriggers exert massive pressure. We can land on concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel. We cannot drive on grass, mud, or soft soil. 2. **Electrical Safety Clearance:** Our crane booms extend high. We require a mandatory exclusion zone of **20+ metres** from any live power cables. If cables are present, we may need to abort the lift. 3. **Vehicle Access Length:** Our rigid HIAB trucks are approximately **11 metres long**. If you require an articulated lorry for multiple orders, the vehicle length exceeds **16 metres**. Ensure your site entrance in [Watford](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/areas-covered/outskirts/sales/shipping-container-sales-watford) or [Dartford](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/areas-covered/outskirts/sales/shipping-container-sales-dartford) has a turning circle to accommodate this. ## Load Security and Lashing Unlike enclosed containers, flat racks expose cargo to the elements and dynamic forces. You must secure loads using the lashing points welded to the bottom side rails. We recommend using rated chains and tension levers rather than fabric straps for heavy machinery. Ensure you check the "Maximum Securing Load" (MSL) for each lashing point. Standard rings are rated for 5,000 kg each. For goods moving through [Hackney](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/areas-covered/east/sales/shipping-container-sales-hackney) or busy urban routes, cross-lashing is essential to prevent lateral movement. ## Purchasing vs Hire Options We support both capital purchase and short-term rental. - **New (One-Trip):** Manufactured in China and shipped once to the UK. These are in pristine condition, with valid CSC plates that are valid for 5 years. Best for shipping or high-visibility sites. - **Used (Wind & Watertight):** Retired shipping line stock. Expect surface rust and indentation, but the main girders remain structurally sound. These are cost-effective for static storage or domestic transport. ## Frequently Asked Questions #### Can I load a flat rack that is already on the trailer? Yes. This is often safer for very heavy items. We can lower the flat rack onto the trailer, you load and secure the cargo, and then we transport it. This avoids lifting a loaded flat rack unnecessarily at your site. #### Do flat racks have forklift pockets? Most 20ft flat racks feature forklift pockets for handling when empty. **Never** attempt to lift a loaded flat rack using forklift pockets unless you are using heavy dockside equipment rated for 30+ tonnes. #### What if my cargo is wider than 8ft (2.44m)? If cargo protrudes beyond the side rails, it is classified as "Out of Gauge" (OOG). You can still transport it, but you cannot stack other containers next to it on a ship. For road moves, you may need a movement order if it exceeds road legal widths. #### Is a crane included in the price? Our delivery quote includes the HIAB crane for offloading the empty container at your site. It does **not** include a crane for loading your cargo onto the flat rack. You must arrange a separate mobile crane or forklift for loading your goods. #### Can I buy a flat rack for a bridge conversion? Yes. Due to their immense floor strength, 20ft and [40ft flat racks](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/container-dimensions/40ft-flat-rack-dimensions) are frequently used as temporary bridges or vehicle ramps on farms and construction sites. Consult a structural engineer before use. [Container Quote](https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/container-quote)Or email our specialists directly at: **This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.** **Tel: [0330 0130 636](tel:03300130636)** ## Schema ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Buy Containers", "item": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/buy-containers" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "20ft Flat Rack", "item": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/buy-containers/20ft-flat-rack" } ] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Product", "productID": "COYU", "name": "20ft Flat Rack Container", "image": "https://shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk/images/containerimages/20ftFR-London.jpg", "description": "Buy 20ft flat rack shipping containers from Shipping Containers of London. 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