20ft Collapsible Flat Rack Container: Stacking, Dimensions & Benefits

In the heavy-lift shipping world, space is money even when the container is empty. Enter the 20ft Collapsible Flat Rack.

Listed in the TraceContainer.com system as "20 Collapsible Flat Rack", this unit offers all the heavy-lifting capabilities of a standard flat rack but with one distinct engineering advantage: the end walls fold down flush with the floor.

This guide explains why this specific type is a favorite for logistics managers looking to save on return shipping costs.

What is a Collapsible Flat Rack?

A Collapsible Flat Rack (often called a Flush Fold Flat Rack) has spring-assisted end walls (bulkheads).

• In Use: The walls are locked in the upright position to brace cargo and allow for stacking on board the vessel.

• When Empty: The walls unlock and fold down flat against the floor mechanism.

The "Bundle" Advantage: Saving Money

The primary reason this container type exists is Reverse Logistics. Shipping empty containers back to their origin is expensive. Because the ends fold down, four (4) empty collapsible flat racks can be stacked together to form a single "bundle."

• The Math: This bundle takes up the exact same space as one standard 20ft dry container.

• The Savings: Instead of paying for 4 separate slots on a ship to return empty equipment, you pay for just 1 slot.

Cargo Capabilities

Despite having folding walls, these units are incredibly robust. Once the walls are locked upright, they can handle the same "Out of Gauge" (OOG) and heavy cargo as a fixed-end flat rack.

Ideal for:

• Heavy Machinery: Excavators, stone cutters, mining equipment.

• Over-Width Cargo: Boats, crates, and tanks that protrude past the sides.

• Over-Height Cargo: If the cargo is too long and too tall, the walls can be folded down while loaded (in specific scenarios) to allow the cargo to overhang the ends, turning it into a specialized platform.

20ft Collapsible Dimensions

Note: The internal length is slightly less than a fixed flat rack due to the hinge mechanism on the floor.

Loading Tips for 20ft Collapsible Container

1. Check the Hinge: Before loading, ensure the bottom of your cargo does not interfere with the hinge mechanism at the base of the walls.

2. Lashing: Like all flat racks, these units rely heavily on lashing chains. Ensure your lashing provider uses the designated eyelets on the bottom rail.

3. Lifting: Collapsible flat racks must be lifted with a spreader (crane) using the top corner castings when loaded.

Track Your Collapsible Flat Rack

Whether your rack is loaded with heavy machinery or folded in a bundle returning to port, you need to know where it is. Track your specific container number (e.g., TRLU 789012 3) instantly with TraceContainer.com.

Track My 20ft Collapsible Container