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What is Out of Gauge Cargo?

The exchange of goods and services through waters has been shaping human civilization for more than 2 millenniums now. The world economies, defense, research, and many other requirements are largely dependent on this. There are countries that hardly produce foodgrains, these countries import massive quantities of food grains from other countries. 

Sea freight is one of the most used forms of transport for large goods and cargo. Most of the goods and cargo are shipped in big metal containers that have the capacity of holding tonnes of load at once. While most of the goods and cargo can fit in these containers, some of them are just too big for these containers.

In this article, we will tell you about everything you need to know about Out Of Gauge Cargo (OOG cargo). So without further delay, let’s jump straight in!

What is the meaning of Out of Gauge or OOG cargo?

In simple terms, Out of Gauge or OOG cargo is any cargo that is too large to fit in the container. The cargo can be either too heavy or just too big or unique in shape to fit inside a container. 

The cargos which exceed the most popular size of containers, the 40’ HC containers are termed to be out of the gauge cargos. These cargos are often carried out without containers or partially into the container.

For cargo to be termed as an Out of the gauge cargo, it should exceed the dimensions 12.05m X 2.33m X 2.59m. 

The OOG cargos propose a greater challenge for the shipping company as well as the person shipping the cargo. The cargos need to be resistant to weathering and can be prone to damage and other issues at the sea. While shipping these cargos, the customers will have to incur additional charges in most cases.

How does Out of Gauge Cargo Work?

Keeping it straight forward, an Out of Gauge Cargo is nothing short of a huge hassle. You need to plan a lot of things before shipping out an OOG cargo. There are many risks involved while shipping an OOG cargo, and only the best shipping companies can handle one properly.

If the OOG cargo is a little larger than the size of a container, it can be partially fitted in a container and can be put into place with belts, you also need to get it covered properly to prevent any damage from salty sea water and sunlight. 

Before sending your cargo out to a shipping company, it is highly recommended to tell them about the exact dimensions, type, and weight of your cargo. Failure to disclose proper information can cause problems while shipping. Also, brace yourselves for extra charges and insurances, shipping these cargos is not easy. The charges also depend on the urgency, the type of cargo, and the kind of protection and care you need for your cargo. The more the risk and lesser the urgency, the lesser are the charges.

The cargos can be transported to the vessel on a trailer, crane, forklift or any heavy vehicle completely depending on the size of the shipment.

Out Of the Gauge cargos ideally take the same time as that of normal sea freight to get delivered, however, if the cargo is just too big, then the shipping company might need to get extra permits and permissions, which can cause some delay.

Recommended Reading: What is Sea Freight & Why Use it?

What are the Different Types of Containers Used for Out of Gauge Cargo?

There are 4 types of containers used for out of gauge cargo:

  • Roll On – Roll Off Services: 

These are the type of vessels where the load can be directly driven inside them. These vessels have multiple decks where the cargo can be driven off and perfectly placed.

  • Open Top and Flat Rack Containers: 

Open Top and Flat Rack containers are ideal for medium sized out of the gauge cargos. These containers are general used for transportation of cargo, and not actual shipment. If needed, two or more of these can be interconnected for a cargo.

  • Vessel Charter: 

A complete vessel can be lent for one OOG cargo if it is big enough. This setup is ideal for massive OOG cargos. In vessel charters, one does not need to worry about the handling as the entire vessel and crew is dedicated to the load.

  • Aircraft Charter: 

If the cargo needs to be shipped urgently and is adequately fit for an aircraft, there is no other option better than using one. Aircraft can ship big cargo in a matter of few days, of course, the charges are very high.

Common Types of Out of Gauge Cargo

  • Military Transport
  • Subsea Extraction Equipment
  • Oversized Steel Reels
  • Turbines
  • Heavy Machinery
  •  Oil Refinery Equipment

What is the Cost of Transporting Out of Gauge Cargo

Transporting out-of-gauge cargo can be expensive due to the added costs. Sometimes, when a huge cargo is loaded onto a cargo carrier, it can take up room that could have been used to load other cargo containers. Also, there is the risk of damaging other containers in the process. 

So shipping companies tend to charge extra to make up for the wasted space and also for the risk they will be taking to transport the out of gauge cargo. 

Wrapping up!

Shipping an OOG cargo is not complex. Experienced shipping companies can handle these cargos with ease. You just have to make sure that you have disclosed all the necessary information before shipping one out to avoid any delays. 

If you are looking for OOG Cargo Services, our experts at Trans Asia Logistics can help. We are specialized in out of gauge cargo services and have been serving businesses worldwide for the last 28 years. 

So if you want a quick quote or need more guidance in transporting OOG cargo, feel free to contact us.