Flat Rack Containers for Sale & Hire in Manchester
At Shipping Containers of Manchester, we supply flat rack shipping containers for demanding industrial and commercial applications. With collapsible or fixed end walls, our flat racks are ideal for loading large or bulky cargo such as machinery, vehicles, pipes, or building materials. Available for hire or purchase, we deliver across Manchester, Salford, Stockport, Oldham, Bolton, and beyond.

Why Choose a Flat Rack Container?
- Open Platform Design: Perfect for oversized or heavy cargo that can’t fit into standard containers.
- Collapsible Ends: Stackable and easy to store when not in use.
- Heavy Load Capacity: Built to transport machinery, steel, or vehicles safely.
- Secure Lashing Points: Ensures safe and stable securing of cargo during transport.
- Available for Hire or Sale: Flexible options for short-term or long-term logistics needs.
20ft Flat Rack Container Specifications
| Description | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Dimensions (L×W×H) | 20' × 8' × 8'6" | 6.06m × 2.44m × 2.59m |
| Internal Dimensions (L×W×H) | 19'4" × 7'3" × 7'4" | 5.90m × 2.23m × 2.24m |
| Tare Weight | 6,172 lbs | 2,800 kg |
| Max Payload | 61,728 lbs | 28,000 kg |
| Max Gross Weight | 67,900 lbs | 30,480 kg |
40ft Flat Rack Container Specifications
| Description | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Dimensions (L×W×H) | 40' × 8' × 8'6" | 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.59m |
| Internal Dimensions (L×W×H) | 39'5" × 7'3" × 7'4" | 12.03m × 2.23m × 2.24m |
| Tare Weight | 11,905 lbs | 5,400 kg |
| Max Payload | 61,728 lbs | 28,000 kg |
| Max Gross Weight | 73,627 lbs | 33,400 kg |
40ft High Cube Flat Rack Specifications
| Description | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Dimensions (L×W×H) | 40' × 8' × 9'6" | 12.19m × 2.44m × 2.89m |
| Tare Weight | 13,228 lbs | 6,000 kg |
| Max Payload | 59,526 lbs | 27,000 kg |
| Max Gross Weight | 73,627 lbs | 33,400 kg |
Typical Uses Across Manchester
- Construction Sites: Transporting heavy steel beams or pre-fabricated structures.
- Manufacturing: Moving industrial equipment or production components.
- Renewable Energy: Shipping large turbines or solar panel frameworks.
- Automotive: Ideal for transporting cars, machinery, or large parts.
- Freight & Logistics: Used for the intermodal transport of oversized goods across road, rail, and sea.
Fast Delivery & Local Expertise
We offer fast and flexible delivery across Manchester, Salford, Trafford, and the wider North West. With specialist transport including HIAB crane vehicles, your flat rack container can be positioned precisely where needed. Learn more about our Manchester container transport service.

Order Your Flat Rack Container in Manchester
Our experts can help you choose the ideal flat rack for your project. Call us or request a free quote today.
- 📞 Tel: 0330 0130 636
- 📝 Request a Free Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flat rack container used for?
Flat racks are designed for oversized or heavy cargo such as machinery, vehicles, or structural materials that can’t fit inside standard containers.
What’s the difference between standard and high cube flat racks?
High cube models offer an extra foot of height clearance, allowing for taller cargo or additional stacking flexibility.
Are flat rack containers available for hire?
Yes, we offer both short-term and long-term hire options across Manchester to meet the flexible project needs of our clients.
Do I need planning permission for a flat rack container?
Not usually, unless it’s a permanent installation. Check our Manchester planning guide for more details.
Can you deliver flat racks to construction sites?
Absolutely. Our HIAB-equipped vehicles make delivery and positioning simple, even in restricted access areas.
Office Hours
Monday : 9:00-17:30
Tuesday : 9:00-17:30
Wednesday : 9:00-17:30
Thursday : 9:00-17:30
Friday : 9:00-17:30
Saturday : Closed
Sunday : Closed
Tel: 0330 0130 636