Out of Gauge (OOG) cargo refers to any cargo that is too large to be loaded into a standard six-sided shipping container. OOG cargo typically has dimensions that exceed the maximum dimensions of a 40HC container, which are 12.05 meters in length, 2.33 meters in width, and 2.59 meters in height. OOG cargo can be more challenging to transport than cargo that fits within these dimensions, as it may require specialized equipment or handling to load and unload. Some common examples of OOG cargo include heavy machinery, large industrial equipment, and over-dimensional vehicles. Shippers who need to transport OOG cargo may need to use specialized equipment and may need to arrange for a vessel or aircraft charter to accommodate the cargo.

OOG Container Types and Transport 

There are a few different types of containers that can be used to transport OOG cargo, depending on the specific size and weight of the items being shipped. Some common types of containers used for OOG cargo include flat racks, open-top containers, and platform containers.

• Flat racks are containers with a flat, open-top and no sides or roof. They are typically used for items that are too tall to fit inside a standard container, such as machinery or construction equipment.
• Open-top containers are similar to flat racks, but they have a removable roof that can be opened to allow for easy loading and unloading of tall or awkwardly shaped items.
• Platform containers are containers with a flat, open-top and sides that can be folded down. They are often used for transporting heavy items, such as vehicles or large pieces of machinery.

OOG cargo is typically transported using specialized heavy-haul trucks or trailers, which are designed to carry large and heavy items. In some cases, OOG cargo may also be transported using a vessel or airplane, depending on the size and weight of the items being shipped.

So, what are the options?

Here are several options for transporting non-containerized cargo, depending on the specific characteristics of the cargo and the requirements of the shipper. Some of the most common options include:

1. Open Top and Flat Rack Containers: These are alternatives to General Purpose containers, and are often used for over-dimensional or over-height cargo. Open Top and Flat Rack containers are designed to allow for side or top loading, making them ideal for awkward or oversized cargo. In some cases, two or more Flat Racks can be connected to accommodate larger cargo.
2. Roll-On Roll-Off (RORO) Services: RORO services are used when the cargo can be driven onto the vessel. RORO vessels have multiple adjustable decks that can accommodate cargo of all sizes, from cars and trucks to large machinery and equipment. The vessel will dock, and its ramp will extend, allowing the cargo to be driven or dragged on and off the vessel.
3. Vessel Charter: In cases where the volume of cargo is large enough, a full vessel charter may be the most effective way to transport non-containerized cargo. These vessels are equipped with fixed cranes that can be used to discharge the cargo from the stow.
4. Aircraft Charter: When time is of the essence, full aircraft charters can be used to quickly and efficiently transport large volumes of non-containerized cargo. These charters can be customized to meet the specific needs of the shipper and the cargo being transported.