Sounds like a trick question..?? It could be..!!
Generally open top and flat rack containers are used for loading cargo that are
- difficult to load through the doors of a standard gp container
- are above the dimensions of a standard gp container (out of gauge)
Below is the external view of an open top and a flatrack.. (Click on the image to view the bigger version)
When you remove the tarpaulin (the outer cover) on an open top or open the doors , you will see what is called as “roof bows” inside the container as per below image (s)
These roof bows are there not only to support the tarpaulin, but they also add to the structural strength/integrity of the container and its stability.. Imagine a heavy cargo that is loaded without the roof bows.. There is a possibility that the container could buckle without the roof bows to strengthen the top of the container..
Therefore if you are loading heavy and over high cargo and there is no possibility of leaving most of the roof bows as it is, it is suggested that a flat rack be used in order not to compromise on the safety and structural integrity of the container..
Do you agree..??
Above images downloaded from http://www.danicon.com, http://www.container.lv, http://www.bslcontainers.com..
Yes, I do agree. Using OT unit without using roof bows can cause structural intergrity/strength. Best option is to use FR unit but this depends on the height of the cargo.
@senna, Me too agree with you.
to decide which container to use ,it is usefull to know the actual height of your cargo ,
open tops can be shipped wthout the tarpaulin cover but for securing heavy cargo a flatrack ‘s lashing points have a higher strength rating .
You can send the dimensions and i will happily advise and even give you a comparative costing .rgds owen
yes, i do agree.. FR is the most suitable eqp for OOG cargo.