What Is Out-Of-Gauge (OOG) Cargo?
Not all cargo fits neatly into standard-sized containers. This type of freight is called out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo. A standard-sized container is 20 or 40 feet in length with a width of 8 feet. Out-of-gauge cargo does not fit into these dimensions. OOG cargo is also often significantly heavier than typical freight.
The unusual shape, heaviness, or oversized dimensions of this kind of freight makes it very difficult to transport, leading to the use of specialized logistics planning and handling.
Out-of-gauge cargo includes items like:
-Heavy machinery
-Large pipes and steel
-Large industrial parts
-Wind turbine blades
-Large vehicles
-Yachts and boats
Transport Methods For Out-Of-Gauge Cargo
Have you ever been driving down the highway and saw a semi-truck transporting vehicles on autoracks? That is an example of out-of-gauge cargo. For heavy or oversized items, OOG cargo requires specialized transport, such as low-bed trailers or heavy-duty trucks.
Flat rack containers are open-sided containers that allow the cargo being shipped to extend beyond the dimensions of the container. Open-top containers are cases without a fixed roof, accommodating shipments with extra height.
Platform trailers with no sides or roofs are used for extremely large freight. Extended trailers can accommodate the extra cargo length, and autoracks are used to transport things like automobiles.
Various methods help secure the freight. Blocking and bracing, which use wood or other materials to help prevent movement during transit, are typically used in out-of-gauge cargo transport. Ropes, chains, and straps are also used to secure the freight.
Considerations For Out-Of-Gauge Cargo
Because of the unique logistics required to transport out-of-gauge cargo, other factors, such as extra fees, permits, safety, and route planning must be considered.
Cost
Due to the unique equipment and handling that is required for shipping OOG cargo, freight costs are generally much higher. Logistics companies may require extra fees for the various risks associated with transporting the shipment, such as risk of damaging other containers or limiting the amount of other cargo that can be loaded onto a truck or ship.
Extra costs for equipment needed to load or unload the freight may be added depending on how large or heavy the cargo is. Specialized equipment includes cranes, heavy-duty forklifts, roll-on/roll-off (RORO) ramps, and lifting frames.
Permits, Safety, And Route Planning
Obtaining permits is critical for transporting OOG cargo, especially for overland transport. Authorizations are essential for safety concerns and infrastructure protection.
These permits mandate routes for drivers to take to reduce the risk of hazardous conditions and prevent accidents, as oversized loads can pose risks to other drivers on the road.
Overweight cargo can damage roads, bridges, and tunnels, so permits help route drivers in a way that reduces the potential for infrastructure damage.
Safety and route planning are essential in transporting OOG cargo. Transporting out-of-gauge cargo requires routes that avoid low bridges, narrow roads, and weight-restricted areas.
As mentioned before, oversized cargo poses a risk to other vehicles on the road, so route planning is critical for the safety of both the public and the truck driver.
Authorizations are also crucial as carriers must comply with local, regional, and national transportation regulations. Permits also ensure the carrier has the appropriate insurance coverage for potential damages or accidents.
Many industries rely on the transport of oversized freight. Successfully transporting out-of-gauge cargo entails thorough planning and the use of unique equipment. In doing so, out-of-gauge cargo transportation can contribute to the seamless functioning of global supply chains.
If you plan on shipping out-of-gauge cargo, give our shipping experts a call at FreightCenter at (800) 716-7608 to schedule your shipment today.
