Điều khoản Logistics What's the Difference? Open Top Container vs Flat Rack Container

Open Top Containers and Flat Rack Containers are two essential options in cargo transportation.
These are specialized containers designed to transport cargo that is difficult to load into standard box-shaped containers.
When standard containers are not sufficient, using open top and flat rack containers becomes essential for transporting special cargo more safely and efficiently.
Let’s take a closer look at these container types that are ideal for handling specialized cargo.

Open Top Container | Definition
An open top container is a type of container with an open roof structure. This design allows for easy top loading using cranes or other lifting equipment. It is primarily used to transport cargo that is tall or irregularly shaped, such as machinery, steel products, and glass panels.

After loading, the cargo is covered with a tarpaulin to protect it from external elements. Open top containers are particularly useful for transporting specialized cargo and play a vital role in logistics environments where efficient loading and unloading are required.

Open Top Container | Definition

Structure

Open Roof Design : Unlike standard containers, open top containers are designed without a fixed roof. After cargo is loaded from the top, it is covered and protected with a tarpaulin or a detachable hard-top roof.

Front & Side Structure : The side walls are made of steel panels, similar to standard containers, to protect the cargo. Openings are available at both the front and rear (doors).

Floor Structure : The floor is built with reinforced materials such as hardwood or steel to support heavy cargo.

Built-in Lashing Points : The container floor and sidewalls are equipped with lashing rings or hooks, allowing cargo—such as heavy machinery loaded by crane—to be securely fastened during transport.

Dimensions
Open top containers are typically manufactured in standard 20FT (6m) and 40FT (12m) sizes, following international container specifications.

Learn more about container specifications > Container | Cello Square

Open Top Container | Suitable Cargo

Cargo exceeding the height of standard containers (approx. 2.4m for 20FT) : Large machinery, generators, industrial equipment roof.

Cargo requiring top-loading due to open upper structure : Large timber, steel coils, stone blocks

Cargo that could be damaged if a roof is closed : Solid chemical products, large glass panels

Cargo that must be loaded from the top using cranes : Engines, construction materials

Open Top Container | Operating Method

Loading Method: Cargo is loaded directly from the top of the container using equipment such as cranes or forklifts. For ultra-heavy or oversized cargo, lashing devices inside the container—on the floor and sidewalls—are used to securely fasten the items.

Securing and Protection: To prevent movement or impact during transportation, cargo is secured using metal chains, straps, and clamps. A tarpaulin is placed over the top, and steel bars are used to hold it in place, protecting the cargo from external elements.

Transportation Method: Like standard containers, open top containers can be transported by trailer, rail, or vessel. However, since the cargo may exceed the container’s height, it is crucial to check the transportation route in advance.

Unloading Method: Upon arrival, cargo is unloaded from the top using cranes or hoists. If door access is needed, unloading can also be done from the rear or side depending on the cargo’s size and shape.

Flat Rack Container | Operating Method
Flat rack containers are open containers with no roof and no side walls, designed for transporting large, heavy, or oversized cargo. They offer high load capacity, capable of carrying heavy cargo up to approximately 24,000 kg (20FT) to 28,000 kg (40FT).

Their structure allows flexible loading from the sides or the top, depending on the size and shape of the cargo, making them ideal for freight that cannot be loaded into standard box-shaped containers.

Thanks to their reinforced frame and open structure, flat rack containers are well-suited for crane loading and are widely used across various industrial sectors.

Flat Rack Container | Specifications (Structure & Dimensions)

Structure

Open Top & Side Design : Allows cargo to be loaded without height or width restrictions, making it suitable for oversized items such as large machinery, vehicles, and steel structures.

Floor & Frame Construction : Built with a steel frame and wooden floor, offering higher strength than standard containers—ideal for transporting ultra-heavy cargo.

End Wall Structure : Comes in two types—fixed-end walls that offer higher durability, and collapsible-end walls that can be folded when not in use, saving storage space.

Lashing Points & Securing Equipment : Designed with lashing rings and fixtures that enable cargo to be securely fastened using metal chains, straps, and wires for safe transport.

Dimensions
Flat rack containers are commonly manufactured in standard 20FT (6m) and 40FT (12m) sizes, adhering to international container standards.

Wide or long cargo : Steel beams, pipes, wind turbine blades

Heavy machinery and equipment : Bulldozers, excavators, tanks

Vehicles and specialized transport equipment : Trucks, railcars, ship components

Irregularly shaped cargo unsuitable for standard containers : Military equipment, large sculptures

Loading Method : Flat rack containers allow flexible loading from the top or sides using cranes or forklifts, offering greater versatility compared to standard containers.

Securing and Protection : Since flat racks have no roof or side walls, proper securing is crucial. Cargo is fastened using metal chains, straps, wires, and clamps. For top-heavy cargo, additional support structures are used to maintain balance.

Transportation Method : Suitable for road, sea, and rail transport. However, due to the oversized nature or weight of the cargo, transportation routes and regulations must be thoroughly checked in advance.

Unloading Method : Upon arrival, cargo is unloaded from the top or sides using cranes or forklifts. All securing devices must be carefully inspected and removed before unloading to ensure safety.

Open top and flat rack containers are both designed for transporting specialized cargo, particularly items that are oversized, heavy, or irregular in shape. While they differ structurally, they share several common characteristics in how they are used for loading and transporting certain types of cargo.

Open Top Container vs Flat Rack Container | Key Differences
Open top and flat rack containers differ in structure and loading method, resulting in different applications and operational advantages.

Understanding the strengths and limitations of each container type is essential for making the right choice. By carefully considering factors such as cargo size, loading method, and the need for protection, you can select the most suitable container for safe and efficient transportation.

Choosing the right container not only enhances transport safety but also contributes significantly to reducing logistics costs. A strategic selection based on the nature of the cargo and transport objectives is key to successful logistics management.

Flat rack containers have no side walls, making them ideal for side loading using forklifts or cranes. Long cargo such as pipes, steel materials, and large timber can be easily loaded from the side.

Open top containers have a structure similar to standard dry containers, with enclosed side walls that help protect cargo from wind, dust, rain, and snow. Additionally, a tarpaulin cover can be used to further shield the cargo, minimizing exposure to external conditions.

Flat rack containers are designed with multiple lashing points not only on the floor but also along the frame, allowing for strong and secure fastening—especially important when transporting heavy machinery, construction equipment, steel structures, and specialized vehicles. While open top containers also have lashing points on the floor and side walls, the fixed side panels limit the flexibility of lashing compared to flat racks.