What do you do when your cargo is so large, odd-shaped, or heavy that it cannot even fit on a Flat Rack? When even the end-walls of a flat rack are in the way, you need the ultimate "blank slate" of shipping: the 20ft Platform.

Listed in the TraceContainer.com system as "20 Platform", this piece of equipment is deceptive. It looks like a simple slab of steel and wood, but it is one of the strongest tools in maritime logistics, capable of carrying massive concentrated loads.

What is a Platform Container?

A Platform is essentially a Flat Rack without the end walls.

• Structure: It is a reinforced steel floor with a wooden deck and corner castings.

• No Walls: It has absolutely no superstructure. No roof, no sides, and no front or rear bulkheads.

• Profile: Because it has no vertical posts, it is incredibly low profile (roughly 30-40cm high).

Platform vs. Flat Rack: The Critical Difference

Most shippers confuse the two.

• Flat Rack: Has end walls. Good for stacking. Cargo must usually fit between the front and rear bulkheads (approx 5.9m length).

• Platform: No end walls. Cargo can protrude efficiently from all four sides.

• Use Case: If you are shipping a 7-meter long steel beam on a 20ft unit, you cannot use a Flat Rack (the walls block it). You must use a Platform.

The "Artificial Deck" (Tweendeck)

The coolest feature of the 20ft Platform is its ability to team up. Platforms can be locked together side-by-side or end-to-end to create a massive "Artificial Deck" in the hold of a ship.

This allows container vessels to accept massive "Breakbulk" items like locomotives or giant yacht hulls that span across the space of multiple container slots.

20ft Platform Dimensions

Since there are no walls, the "Internal" dimensions are effectively the same as the "External" dimensions.

Logistics Note: Platforms usually cannot be transported on standard container trailers (chassis) once loaded, because there are no corner posts to twist-lock onto. They are often loaded directly on the terminal ground (on dunnage) and lifted onto the ship by a specialized spreader or wire slings. 

Best Uses: Extreme Cargo

• Oversized Machinery: Parts that are longer than 20ft and wider than 8ft.

• Heavy Barrels/Drums: High-density loads that need to be strapped down.

• Vehicles: Large trucks or tracked vehicles that overhang slightly.

Track Your Project Cargo

When you are moving oversized cargo on a Platform, visibility is non-negotiable. These shipments often require special approval at every port. Keep track of your critical equipment with TraceContainer.com.

Track My Platform Container