There’s a lot that can go wrong when shipping out of gauge cargo. In this guide, we’ll explain what out of gauge cargo really means, what you need to consider; And which transport methods and container types are best suited for oversized freight.
What does “Out of Gauge” (OOG) mean in shipping?
In simple terms, OOG cargo refers to any load that exceeds the standard dimensions of a 20ft or 40ft container. When cargo extends beyond the container’s height, width, or length, it can’t be closed or stowed inside a regular unit.
Typical container dimensions for reference:
- 20ft standard container: 6.06m (L) × 2.44m (W) × 2.59m (H)
- 40ft standard container: 12.19m (L) × 2.44m (W) × 2.59m (H)
Common Out of Gauge cargo examples include:
- Construction machinery and vehicles
- Wind turbine components and power equipment
- Large tanks, boilers, or industrial modules
- Yacht hulls and heavy mining parts
How is OOG cargo packed and secured?
Because OOG shipping involves irregular shapes and heavy loads, proper packing and lashing are critical. Freight forwarders use specialized containers and equipment to handle these shipments safely.
The most common container types for Out of Gauge transport:
- Flat rack container: Ideal for oversized width or height. The open sides allow overhang.
- Open-top container: Suited for tall cargo that can’t fit through a standard door.
- Platform container: Used for extremely heavy or long freight, often shipped without walls or roof.
To secure OOG cargo:
- Steel chains, belts, and wooden blocks are used to fix the load in place.
- Lashing and bracing follow IMO (International Maritime Organization) standards.
- Accurate center of gravity calculations ensure vessel stability during ocean transit.
Out of Gauge transport: From port to destination
Moving out of gauge containers isn’t just about sea freight. It often requires multimodal transport, combining road, rail, and ocean legs to reach the final destination.
- Sea freight: The most common method for OOG shipping from China, often loaded on deck or in a flat rack on a container vessel.
- RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) services: Suitable for wheeled or self-propelled cargo, with vessels featuring adjustable decks to handle loads of various sizes.
- Vessel charter: The best solution for large-scale, non-containerized cargo. Charter vessels leverage onboard cranes to load and discharge cargo directly.
- Aircraft charter: When timing is critical, full aircraft charters move heavy cargo worldwide within days.
- Road transport: Low-bed trailers and extendable trucks handle the final delivery.
- Multimodal options: Seamless transitions between ports, rail terminals, and industrial sites minimize handling risks.
At Airsupply, we work closely with shipping lines, port terminals, and truck operators to obtain the necessary route permits and escort vehicles. We also check every bridge and tunnel clearance in advance to keep the transport smooth and safe.
Documentation and customs for OOG shipping
Key documents include:
- Packing list and commercial invoice (detailing dimensions and weight)
- Certificate of origin
- Bill of lading (noting special cargo type and handling requirements)
- Export licenses or permits (for restricted equipment)
Customs officers often require detailed photos, drawings, or measurement sheets to verify the shipment’s specifications before clearance.
Tips for shippers: How to prepare for OOG freight
Successful out of gauge transport depends on planning, coordination, and experienced partners. Here’s what every shipper should do:
- Plan early. OOG bookings require advance notice — often weeks before vessel departure.
- Provide exact measurements. Even a few centimeters matter when routing through ports or bridges.
- Choose the right equipment. Work with your forwarder to select flat rack, open-top, or platform containers.
- Insure your cargo. OOG loads carry a higher risk, so cargo insurance is essential.
- Partner with specialists. A forwarder experienced in out of gauge shipping from China can manage route surveys, permits, and vessel coordination.
Why work with Airsupply freight forwarder?
Out of gauge shipments can be complex, but with the right planning and a trusted logistics partner, they move smoothly across continents. If you’re shipping out of gauge cargo from China, our team specializes in tailor-made project logistics solutions — from factory pickup to final delivery.
We match your shipments with:
- Evaluate feasibility and routing before pickup
- Handle port coordination and customs paperwork
- Arrange heavy-lift cranes or project logistics support
- Provide real-time shipment visibility and proactive updates
