Special Container Solutions for Used Machinery

Advantages, Disadvantages & How to Choose the Right Option

When exporting used machinery from China, standard containers are not always suitable. Large excavators, industrial equipment, generators, production machinery, 

and oversized cargo often require special containers such as Flat Rack (FR) or Open Top (OT) containers.

Choosing the right equipment and transportation method can significantly impact shipping costs, cargo safety, and overall logistics efficiency.

1. Open Top Container (OT)

What is an Open Top Container?

An Open Top container has a removable roof covered by a tarpaulin, allowing cargo to be loaded vertically by crane.

Suitable Cargo

· CNC Machines

· Injection Molding Machines

· Industrial Equipment

· Generators

· Tall Machinery

Advantages

✅ Top Loading Capability

✅ Better Protection Than Flat Rack

✅ Lower Cost Than Flat Rack (In Some Cases)

Disadvantages

❌ Width Restrictions Remain

❌ Height Restrictions Apply

❌ Limited Availability

Best Choice When:

✔ Cargo is mainly over-height

✔ Cargo width fits within container limits

✔ Better protection is required

2. Flat Rack Container (FR)

What is a Flat Rack?

A Flat Rack container is designed without fixed side walls and, in some cases, without end walls, allowing oversized cargo to extend beyond the container dimensions.

It is one of the most commonly used solutions for transporting large used machinery.

Suitable Cargo

· Used Excavators

· Wheel Loaders

· Road Rollers

· Forklifts (oversized models)

· Industrial Equipment

· Generators

· Construction Machinery

Advantages

✅ Ideal for Oversized Cargo

✅ Easy Loading and Unloading

✅ Reduced Disassembly Requirements

✅ Strong Cargo Securing Points

Disadvantages

❌ Higher Freight Costs

❌ Additional OOG Charges

❌ More Complex Planning

Best Choice When:

✔ Cargo exceeds standard container dimensions

✔ Cargo can be lifted by crane

✔ Reducing dismantling work is important

How ECBEC Limited Helps Indonesia Freight Forwarders

Selecting the right special container requires experience and accurate planning.

Our team can assist with:

✅ Cargo Measurement & Inspection

✅ Flat Rack / Open Top Feasibility Analysis

✅ Loading Plan Design

✅ Professional Lashing & Securing

✅ Export Customs Clearance

✅ Ocean Freight Booking

✅ OOG Cargo Handling

✅ China-to-Indonesia Logistics Coordination

For Indonesia freight forwarders, having a reliable partner in China means receiving practical transportation solutions—not just freight rates.

ECBEC help evaluate each shipment individually to determine the safest, most efficient, and most cost-effective shipping method for your customer's used machinery.

Let's build a long-term partnership and grow together in the China–Southeast Asia trade market.