What is this service?
A flat rack is a container with end walls but no side walls or roof; an open top has an open roof closed with a tarpaulin. Lashing on these units means tying the cargo to the floor's lashing points with chains, webbing or wire rope, chocking it, and tarping it where needed.
Who and which cargo is it for?
- Machinery taller or wider than a standard container
- Heavy parts that must be crane-loaded from above
- Structural steel members, pipes and sections
- Wheeled and tracked vehicles and plant
Scope of service
- Check of the flat rack/open top type and lashing-point ratings
- Measurement confirmation so out-of-gauge dimensions can be declared to the carrier
- Positioning the cargo by its centre of gravity
- Multi-directional lashing with chains, webbing or wire rope
- Tarping and protection of chafe points
- Pre-departure check and photo record
Typical operation stages
- 1
Size & weight
Exact dimensions and weight are taken and any overhang is identified.
- 2
Unit selection
The carrier's flat rack/open top type and lashing-point rating are confirmed.
- 3
Placement
The centre of gravity is kept close to the middle; point loads are spread with beams.
- 4
Lashing
Cross and direct lashings resist longitudinal and transverse forces.
- 5
Protection
Tarpaulin, edge protection and anti-chafe material where needed.
- 6
Check
Tension, locks and tarp fastenings are checked and recorded.
Methods and materials
Cross lashing
Lashings leading two ways from each corner to resist both longitudinal and transverse forces.
Chocks & stoppers
Timber chocks or permitted stoppers stop the cargo sliding on the floor.
Anti-slip mats
Raise friction between cargo and floor and reduce the load on lashings.
Tarping
Protection from rain, sea spray and UV, with close fastening so the tarp does not flog in wind.
Safety and checkpoints
- Out-of-gauge dimensions declared wrongly upset stowage planning, so they are confirmed on site.
- Folding end walls on flat racks are checked to be locked.
- Tarping is work at height and is not done without suitable access equipment.
- Lashing angles and lengths are kept within limits so equipment capacity is not lost.
Example scenario
Example scenario (illustrative): an excavator upper structure 3.1 metres tall will not fit an open top, so it goes on a flat rack. The tracks are blocked with timber chocks, cross chains run from the manufacturer's lashing points on the chassis, and cab glass and sensitive hydraulic lines are covered.
Locations served
Our İzmit / Kocaeli based team works at ports and industrial sites around Kocaeli and the Gulf of İzmit. For operations outside Kocaeli, state the location in your request.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose a flat rack or an open top?
If the cargo is only too tall and its width is within standard limits, an open top is often enough. If it is also too wide or needs side loading, a flat rack is used. The final choice depends on the carrier's equipment.
How is exposed cargo protected from sea water?
With tarpaulins and, where needed, VCI or shrink wrapping. Tarps can trap moisture, so ventilation and desiccant are planned for corrosion-sensitive cargo.
Where do I find the lashing-point ratings?
From the carrier's equipment data or the markings on the flat rack. If they cannot be confirmed, a conservative arrangement is used and written data is requested from the carrier.
