Advantages of Röhlig’s OOG sea freight service
- Choosing a mode of transportation
We assess the dimensions, weight and handling requirements of your oversized cargo to determine a suitable transport mode. - Securing the cargo
We review cargo-securing requirements and the lashing measures needed for handling and sea transport. - Transport to the port
We arrange inland transport from the loading site to the port terminal. - Cost overview
We provide a breakdown of the transport costs based on cargo dimensions, handling requirements and space used on the vessel.
What does Out of Gauge Cargo (OOG) mean?
Out of gauge cargo (OOG) describes any cargo that cannot be loaded into six-sided shipping containers due to its size. All cargo that exceeds the dimensions of a 20 or 40 foot container is considered out of gauge cargo.
In concrete terms, this means that these loads exceed 12.05 metres in length, 2.33 metres in width and/or 2.59 metres in height. The term often includes AIL (Abnormal Indivisible Load) loads. An AIL (Abnormal Indivisible Load) is a cargo unit that cannot be divided into smaller parts for transport without unreasonable cost or risk. These unusually shaped cargoes require special heavy equipment to handle them for sea transport.
Read more about the dimensions of standard sea containers here.
Handling oversized cargo
How does the transport of OOG cargo work?
Oversized cargo creates special requirements for transport by sea freight. To ship OOG cargo safely, all shipping characteristics must be analysed in detail. Accurate and detailed information is essential for the freight forwarder when dealing with customised cargo.
The transport of OOG cargo can be roughly divided into three phases:
- Information sharing: You provide us with all shipping details as early as possible. This includes, for example, the sensitivity of the load, access to the site and information on whether cranes are needed.
- Comprehensive work plan: We prepare a transport plan covering handling steps, equipment needs, responsibilities and timing for the OOG shipment.
- Process support: We coordinate all parties involved and keep you informed about the project status throughout.
Oversized cargo handling depends on a defined process and accurate documentation. Typical requirements include permits, technical drawings, loading plans, handling instructions and coordination between shipper, carrier, terminal and inland transport providers.
The timely provision of comprehensive and detailed information in the first phase is particularly important for a smooth process when transporting oversized cargo.
What information is important for the transport of OOG cargo?
Typical planning information includes cargo dimensions, gross weight, centre of gravity, lifting points, packing type, pickup location, delivery location, cargo sensitivity, site access restrictions and the required delivery date.
In order to design a detailed plan for the transport of your cargo, it is advisable to provide accurate information as early as possible. Information on the origin of the goods, their destination, the type of goods and the duration of transport form the basis of the planning.
Technical diagrams needed for OOG transport planning
A technical diagram describes the load in a form that can be used for transport planning. The diagram shows the cargo dimensions, centre of gravity and lifting points. The technical diagram helps planners choose the right equipment and lashing materials for lifting, transport and securing. The same diagram is later used by the ship or aircraft loadmaster to prepare the loading plan.
Delivery and readiness deadlines for OOG cargo
Provide the required delivery date and the date on which the OOG cargo will be ready for transport as early as possible. These dates affect equipment planning, port handling, vessel booking and any special transport arrangements before loading. Early timing information helps identify scheduling risks in advance and allows the shipment plan to be adjusted before delays affect the project.
How oversized OOG cargo is handled at the port
Oversized cargo must be delivered and received directly at the pier with special transport equipment. For the transport of particularly large or heavy goods, shippers often resort to flat-rack or open-top containers. Open-top containers are shipping containers with a removable roof so cargo can be loaded from above. This type of container is characterised by a relatively thick steel floor, which can transport particularly heavy cargo.
Also popular for transporting oversized cargo are containers with two open walls and an open roof. Like other container types, these open-top containers are available in two sizes: 20 and 40 feet. Some oversized goods cannot be loaded into any type of container and are often transported directly on deck or in the ship’s hold.
The exact loading method depends on vessel type, port capabilities, cargo dimensions, weight distribution and local handling restrictions. Final feasibility must be confirmed for each shipment.
Read more about the dimensions, volumes and maximum loads for the most common sea containers here.
Costs for the transport of goods outside the gauge (OOG)
Typical cost drivers for OOG sea freight include extra deck or hold space, reduced capacity for adjacent containers, special handling equipment, port labour, inland heavy-haul transport, permits and lashing materials.
The costs of transporting OOG cargo are often higher because the cargo may require special equipment, direct pier delivery, additional handling and space that cannot be used for other containers.
When OOG cargo is loaded on or below deck, it often leaves too little space for adjacent twist locks. In addition, containers cannot be placed on top of the OOG cargo. Shipping and transport companies charge additional fees to compensate for this wasted space. The wasted space is also referred to as "lost slots".
Find real-life examples of OOG shipments by Röhlig
Ask us about your OOG sea freight shipment
Tell us about your out of gauge shipment requirements and we'll work to find the right approach for your business.
Out-of-gauge (OOG)
What is the difference between out of gauge and overweight cargo?
Out of gauge (OOG) cargo extends beyond the length, width or height of a container or transport equipment. Overweight is heavier than the permitted payload, axle-load or handling limit, but may still fit within standard dimensions of a container. A shipment can be OOG, overweight, or both, so dimensions, gross weight and weight distribution must all be checked before transport equipment is selected.
Which equipment is used for OOG sea freight?
The equipment used for OOG sea freight depends on the cargo’s dimensions, weight distribution, lifting method, weather sensitivity and route. Flat-rack containers are commonly used for cargo that exceeds standard width or height; open-top containers suit cargo that must be loaded from above or are higher than the top of a regular container.
Larger or heavier units may move as breakbulk cargo or on a roll-on/roll-off or multipurpose vessel. Final feasibility is subject to carrier, vessel, terminal and equipment approval.
What information is needed for an OOG freight quote?
The exact packed dimensions and gross weight of each piece of cargo, together with the commodity, packing method, centre of gravity, lifting and lashing points, technical drawings and clear photographs can all be important information needed prior to the movement of an OOG shipment.
An OOG sea freight shipment quotation also needs the collection and delivery locations, cargo-ready date, required delivery date, preferred route and details of site access, cranes or other handling equipment. Declare dangerous goods at the outset and include the relevant classification and documentation.
How far in advance should OOG cargo be booked?
Share the shipment details of your OOG sea freight shipment as early as possible. OOG bookings can require engineering review, special equipment, vessel-space approval, terminal checks, route surveys and road permits. The necessary lead time varies by trade lane, cargo dimensions, port capability and equipment availability.
How is OOG cargo secured for sea transport?
A securing plan is developed from the cargo’s weight, dimensions, centre of gravity, support points and anticipated transport forces. The cargo may need purpose-designed cradles, timber supports, chains, wires, web lashings or blocking and bracing. Lashing arrangements must suit the equipment and carrier requirements, while allowing safe lifting and handling.
Are special permits needed for the inland transport of OOG cargo?
Oversized road movements may require authority notifications, permits, route surveys, bridge or road assessments, escort vehicles and restricted travel times. Requirements differ by country and by the vehicle’s loaded dimensions, gross weight and axle loads. These checks should cover both the origin and destination legs before the sea-freight booking and delivery schedule are confirmed.