Ocean equipment
Flat rack or open top for machinery from China?
A machine can fit inside a container and still be impossible to load through its doors. Start with two questions: where does the packed piece extend beyond the equipment, and how will the operator get it on and off?
When the roof opening matters
Ask the factory for the width and length of the crate at its widest points, including its base. An open top has side walls. Loading from above can solve an access problem, but the roof opening and any fixed obstructions still matter. Ask the carrier to check the actual opening for the equipment offered. Include whether the piece must stay upright.
When the sides matter
A flat rack is worth reviewing when a piece is too wide for container walls or needs access from the side. Identify projections on the left and right separately. Include the packed height above the base and flag anything that extends beyond an end. The carrier also needs the gross weight and the way that weight rests on the deck. A nominal container length alone cannot settle the choice.
A comparison to send before ordering the crate
Suppose a machine has a removable control cabinet on one side. Ask the manufacturer for two drawings: the complete machine on its skid, and the approved split configuration with the cabinet in its own crate. Have the forwarder price both, including the second package, extra handling and weather protection. Have the buyer price reassembly separately. The smaller main piece only helps if the complete move works better.
What to put on the drawing
Label the transport orientation, maximum packed dimensions, known projections, gross weight and manufacturer-designated lifting points. Date the drawing and mark estimates. Ask which dimensions must be reconfirmed after securing and who will approve the drawing before the factory releases the load. See the carrier’s special cargo guide for its equipment categories.