OOG Cargo: Ways to Ship Heavy Equipment

June 26, 2023

Written by

Sarah Chung

Sarah Chung (She/Her) is a digital marketing intern with Jenik Freight. She is currently a fourth year student at the University of Calgary in the process of completing her BA Honours in Communication and Media Studies.

When shipping oversized cargo by ocean freight, specialized containers are crucial, which is where Out of Gauge Cargo (OOG) comes into play. OOG refers to a broad range of cargo, including large automobiles like trailers and heavy equipment such as construction machinery.

Forklifts are a type of heavy equipment that needs OOG cargo shipping to transport safely and efficiently. — A forklift being transported as OOG cargo.

However, transporting heavy equipment can be a delicate process, as any damage incurred during transport can be costly and time-consuming to repair. That’s why Jenik Freight, a leading freight forwarding company specializing in heavy equipment transport, is here to explore the world of OOG shipping and determine if it’s suitable for transporting your valuable equipment.

Transporting heavy equipment requires more than just standard shipping procedures. Such machinery’s unique size, weight, and dimensions demand specialized care and precision to ensure its safe arrival at the intended destination.

By understanding the ins and outs of OOG shipping, you can decide on the best transportation method for your specific needs. Whether you’re a business owner looking to move heavy machinery or an individual seeking to transport a large automobile, OOG shipping may hold the key to a smooth and secure journey.

What exactly is OOG Cargo?

OOG cargo refers to oversized cargo that must be loaded onto specialized containers due to its dimensions or weight exceeding the usual standards for dry containers. The general rule of thumb, for determining what kind of cargo is considered as OOG, is any cargo that cannot fit and/or be safely transported in a standard ocean cargo container, such as the standard 40 ft. or 20 ft. container.

That said, OOG services can vary depending on a customer’s needs. Cargo size is the primary indicator of whether a customer’s cargo is considered OOG cargo. Still, other crucial indicators include budget, origin, destination, and urgency.

Two common OOG containers are flat rack containers and open-top containers.

Flat rack containers have collapsible sides, allowing them to accommodate oversized cargo, heavy loads, construction equipment, building supplies, or heavy machinery. These containers provide flexibility in handling and transporting large and bulky items.

Open-top containers are primarily utilized for cargo that exceeds standard height limitations. These containers feature a fully removable and convertible top, enabling easy access to the goods by opening from the top of the container.

Flat rack containers are one common OOG cargo container — Flat rack container.

Open-top (OT) containers are another common OOG cargo container. — Open-top (OT) container.

What is considered heavy equipment?

Similar to the definition of OOG cargo, heavy equipment is a catch-all term for any sort of heavy-duty equipment (and its parts) used for construction, mining, agriculture, and engineering. Hydraulics and heavy vehicles are also considered as heavy equipment.

Construction equipment:

Cranes
Excavators
Bulldozers
Cement mixers

Forklifts
Compactors
Paver
Dump trucks

Agriculture:

Tractors
Combines
Plough

Till-gate planters
Packing
Sprayer

Other common types of heavy equipment include:

Petroleum drilling rig (and its parts) for offshore and onshore oil drilling
Hydraulics systems (hydraulic lifts, brakes, jacks, etc.)

A few examples listed above, such as dump trucks, may also be considered as RORO cargo.

Is OOG shipping right for me?

OOG shipping offers a specialized solution for transporting heavy equipment and oversized cargo by ocean freight. With the expertise of Jenik Freight, you can ensure that your valuable equipment is handled with care and precision throughout the transportation process.

By understanding the nuances of OOG shipping and the various types of containers available, such as flat rack containers and open-top containers, you can select the most suitable method for your specific needs. Whether you’re a business owner needing heavy machinery or an individual looking to transport a large automobile, OOG shipping can provide a smooth and secure journey for your cargo.

Lastly, heavy equipment encompasses machinery used in various industries, such as construction, mining, agriculture, and engineering. Understanding the nature of heavy equipment helps determine the specific requirements for its transportation.

Whether for commercial or personal purposes, OOG shipping provides the necessary expertise and equipment to ensure the successful transportation of your heavy equipment, allowing it to reach its destination intact and ready for use.

To get started on your RORO cargo journey, contact us today!

To learn more about our services and company, visit our homepage.

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