Container Blocking and Bracing | Flat Rack Container
DGM provides professional services in container blocking and bracing, as well as flat rack container services, supporting safe transportation and cargo integrity during transit. Our specialized services include preparing flat rack trailers, shipping container loading, and shipping container unloading to accommodate importers and exporters. DGM ensures each flat rack container is properly lashed and braced, protecting your valuable cargo throughout its journey. Whether utilizing a flat rack or other container types, DGM’s expertise guarantees compliance with safety and shipping requirements.
Blocking and Bracing
DGM provides full-service container loading and container blocking and bracing from our NJ facility. We offer solutions to block and brace all types of containers and various cargo. Each load is securly blocked and braced to prevent shifting and damage during transit, keeping your cargo freight safe.
Shippers who incorrectly pack their containers are liable for any damage caused to other containers and the vessel itself. These losses are not covered by cargo insurance, which makes proper cargo blocking and bracing essential.
There is a lot to consider before loading shipping container equipment. For example, lumber used in international shipping must be ISPM-15 certified. DGM is certified for ISPM-15 compliance.
Other key factors that affect container blocking and bracing:
- Weight Distribution
- Space Utilization
- Climate Variation
- Cargo Compatibility
Improper loading can lead to cargo damage. DGM’s method for blocking and bracing cargo reduces the risk of damage from shifting freight. Our container services helps limit rejections at ports and lowers the chance of double handling. Combined with our drayage services, we provide a complete solution from loading to delivery.
OOG Cargo
DGM provides flat rack container services for Out of Gauge (OOG) cargo, providing expert handling for oversized freight that cannot fit into standard containers. Utilizing flat rack shipping containers, open-top, or platform containers, DGM ensures secure and compliant transport. Out of gauge shipping requires careful planning, specialized equipment, knowledge, and experience.
Load, lash, and secure cargo at your location or nearby depot
Inland collection and deliveries using various equipment
Arrangement of NCB inspection / cargo inspections
Expert guidance and support throughout the shipping process
Container Loading Solutions
DGM provides complete container loading services:
- Container Types: Handling standard 10′, 20′, and 40′ enclosed and open top containers as well as reefer containers .
- Additional Load Securing: Wood lining, dunnage bags, chain tie downs.
- SOLAS VGM Compliance: Assisting with the compliance of SOLAS VGM regulations to ensure the safety of your shipments at sea.
- Live Loads: Facilitating quick and safe loading and unloading of your cargo directly onto/from the containers.
Drayage Service
DGM provides dependable New Jersey drayage services as part of their comprehensive ocean container services. Efficiently handling container transport, managing container movements to and from ports. DGM’s experienced team delivers timely drayage services, supporting logistics operations for clients throughout the region. Click here to learn more about these services.
Who is responsible for loading a container?
In many cases, especially under trade terms like FOB (Free on Board) or EXW (Ex Works), the shipper or seller is responsible for loading the container at their facility. This includes properly packaging and palletizing the goods, loading them securely to prevent movement or damage, ensuring compliance with weight regulations, and preparing the container for sealing and inspection.
What is the most important factor to consider while loading containers?
The most important factor when loading containers is ensuring cargo stability. Proper loading prevents movement during transit, which minimizes the risk of damage. This involves evenly distributing weight, securing goods with appropriate restraints, complying with weight limits, and following a loading plan to maximize space efficiency. Additionally, proper loading ensures compliance with regulations like SOLAS-VGM (Verified Gross Mass) and helps avoid penalties or transport delays.
What is the basic rule when loading a container?
The basic rule when loading a container is to distribute weight evenly and secure the cargo properly. This ensures stability during transit. Heavier items should be loaded at the bottom and center, with lighter items on top, and all goods should be tightly packed and secured to prevent shifting.
What is the limit for container loading?
The loading limit depends on the type and size of the container. Below is a summary of common container types with their maximum payload:
| Container Type | Maximum Payload |
|---|---|
| 20′ Standard – Steel | 62,390 lb / 28,300 kg |
| 40′ Standard – Steel | 63,650 lb / 28,870 kg |
| 40′ High Cube – Steel | 63,250 lb / 28,690 kg |
| 45′ High Cube – Steel | 60,957 lb / 27,650 kg |
| 20′ Standard – Reefer | 61,220 lb / 27,770 kg |
| 40′ High Cube Standard – Reefer | 65,410 lb / 29,670 kg |
| 40′ High Cube Magnum – Reefer | 64,772 lb / 29,380 kg |
| 40′ High Cube Super Freezer – Reefer | 60,957 lb / 27,650 kg |
| 20′ Open Top | 62,420 lb / 28,310 kg |
| 40′ Open Top High Cube | 62,610 lb / 28,400 kg |
| 40′ High – Flat Rack Collapsible | 104,280 lb / 47,300 kg |
Note: Always verify the container’s specifications before loading to ensure compliance with transport regulations and safety standards like SOLAS-VGM.
How do you secure a load in a container?
Securing a load in a container involves several important steps to ensure cargo safety:
Distribute weight evenly by placing heavier items at the bottom and center of the container to maintain balance of the container.
Use dunnage and blocking materials such as airbags, foam, or wood to fill gaps and prevent movement.
Strap and tie down cargo using lashing straps, tie-downs, or chains secured to the container’s anchor points.
Load tightly against the container walls to minimize empty spaces and reduce shifting during transit.
Stack cargo carefully, placing heavy and sturdy goods at the bottom and lighter, fragile items on top.
Follow international guidelines, like the CTU Code (Cargo Transport Units Code).
Properly securing the load helps prevent damage and ensures transport safety.
What is container loading inspection?
A container loading inspection is a quality control process where inspectors verify that goods are correctly loaded into a shipping container before dispatch. It includes:
Quantity Check: Confirming that the correct quantity and type of goods are being shipped.
Condition Check: Inspecting goods for any visible damage or defects before loading.
Packaging and Labeling Review: Ensuring products are properly packaged and labeled according to specifications and shipping standards.
Loading Process Monitoring: Verifying that goods are loaded securely with proper stacking, weight distribution, and cargo securing methods.
Container Condition Check: Examining the container for cleanliness, structural integrity, and water-tightness.
Seal Verification: Ensuring the container is sealed correctly with a valid seal number for security and tracking.
At DGM, we follow detailed internal inspection checklists to ensure every container meets the highest regulatory and quality standards. Additionally, we can incorporate NCB (National Cargo Bureau) inspections as part of the services we provide, offering an extra layer of compliance and certification when needed.
This comprehensive approach minimizes the risk of damage during transit, ensures regulatory compliance, and provides peace of mind that shipments meet all contractual and legal requirements.
Get in Touch
For professional and reliable services for your ocean container shipments, DGM is your single source solution. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and learn how we can facilitate the safe and secure transport of your cargo.