If you're managing large-scale cargo movements, this guide is essential reading. Here we’ll thoroughly explore OOG (out-of-gauge cargo) and highlight key factors for successful imports and exports . We will explain what OOG is, what to consider from start to finish, how to streamline the process, and the various transport options and container types available.
WHAT IS OOG SHIPMENTS AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
What is the meaning of OOG? OOG stands for out-of-gauge cargo and refers to any shipment that is too large to fit into standard six-sided shipping containers . Specifically, cargo exceeding the dimensions of a 20 or 40-foot container is classified as OOG. This translates to loads surpassing 12.05 meters in length, 2.33 meters in width, and/or 2.59 meters in height.
OOG cargo often includes Abnormal Indivisible Loads (AIL), which are items that cannot be broken down into smaller pieces for transportation without incurring significant costs or risks. These unusually shaped loads require specialized heavy equipment for handling during sea freight.
WHAT IS AN EXAMPLE OF OOG?
OOG cargo includes large items like luxury buses, car trailers, special works of art, and mining equipment. Other examples include construction machinery, aircraft parts, wind turbines, and power generation equipment. Bulk cargo, which is also not suited for conventional containers, falls under this category as well.
HOW DOES THE TRANSPORT OF OOG CARGO WORK?
Transporting oversized cargo by sea freight requires special considerations and careful planning. To ensure the shipment is carried out effectively and safely, a thorough analysis of all shipping characteristics is essential. Providing accurate and detailed information is crucial for the freight forwarder when handling customized cargo.
The transport of OOG cargo can be broadly divided into three key phases:
- Information sharing: You provide your shipping company with details as early as possible, such as load sensitivity, site access, and any crane requirements.
- Comprehensive work plan: Your shipment company develops a customized OOG solution tailored to your needs, establishing the framework for handling the cargo.
- Process support: The company coordinates all involved parties and keeps you updated on the project's progress throughout.
Successfully managing oversized cargo requires a well-established process and meticulous attention to detail. Bertlings experienced shipping experts handle all aspects of the transportation of your OOG cargo.
Timely and detailed information in the initial phase is especially critical to ensuring a smooth transport process for oversized cargo.
EQUIPMENT
For transporting out-of-gauge cargo, the most common options are flat racks and open-top containers.
FLAT RACK CONTAINERS
Flat racks have collapsible end walls and open sides. Cargo can be loaded from the sides using heavy-duty forklifts or from the top with cranes. The cargo is typically centered for balanced weight distribution. Flat racks often feature pad-eyes or lashing rings for securing the cargo.
OPEN-TOP CONTAINERS
Open-top containers have rigid walls and doors at one end, with an open or removable hard roof. Loading is done through the door with a forklift or from the top with a crane. Some open-top containers have a removable beam above the door or outward-swiveling doors to facilitate loading.
Once loaded, out-of-gauge cargo is secured with straps and covered with a tarpaulin or the container's roof. Tarpaulins, made of canvas coated with waterproof materials, are commonly used for their flexibility and durability.
Both flat racks and open-top containers come in standard 20-foot and 40-foot sizes to fit standard trailers and handling equipment at ports and warehouses.
WHAT INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT FOR THE TRANSPORT OF OOG CARGO
To create a detailed transport plan for your cargo, it is important to provide accurate information as early as possible. Key details include the origin and destination of the goods, the type of cargo, and the expected transport duration. Additionally, please inform us about the handling capacity at both the origin and destination, site requirements, access conditions, cargo sensitivity, and whether cranes will be needed.
TECHNICAL DIAGRAMS
Work with an engineer to prepare a technical description of the load, outlining its dimensions, center of gravity, and lifting points. These diagrams are crucial for selecting the appropriate equipment and securing methods for lifting, transporting, and securing the load. They will also be used later by the ship or aircraft loadmaster when drafting a loading plan.
DEADLINES
Provide the required delivery date for the OOG cargo and the shipping company when it will be ready for transport. By communicating deadlines in advance, we can review and take the necessary actions to ensure they are met.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE OOG CARGO?
- Oversized cargo requires direct delivery and receipt at the pier using specialized transport equipment.
- For transporting particularly large or heavy goods, shippers often use flat-rack or open-top containers.
Flat-rack containers feature a thick steel floor, making them ideal for carrying exceptionally heavy cargo. - Open-top containers, which have two open walls and an open roof, are also commonly used for oversized cargo. These containers, like other types, are available in 20- and 40-foot sizes.
- However, some oversized items are too large for any container and must be transported directly on the ship’s deck or in the hold.
COSTS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF OOG
Transporting oversized cargo typically incurs significantly higher costs. This is because bulky items occupy more space on a ship than standard containers. When OOG cargo is loaded on or below the deck, it often limits the available space for securing adjacent containers with twist locks, and additional containers cannot be stacked on top of the oversized load. To offset the loss of usable space, known as "lost slots," shipping and transport companies charge additional fees.
Read more: Shipping costs: How do you calculate shipping costs?
SMOOTH SHIPPING OF OOG CARGO WITH BERTLING
Bertling is known for its fast, flexible, and personalized service. We offer competitive shipping rates and excellent service, tailored to the needs of companies that are shipping OOG cargo – or any other form of sea freight.
Bertling operates within a global network of partners and ensures that goods are transported safely and smoothly to their final destination within the estimated timeframe. Our goal is always to offer flexible solutions at competitive prices. In addition to sea freight, we also offer road transport and air freight. Contact us for more information and advice on our various transport options.
