09/11/2023
What you need to know about Out Of Gauge (OOG) Cargo:
Out of Gauge (OOG), cargo encompasses shipments that exceed the dimensions of standard six-sided shipping containers.
Dealing with OOG cargo demands meticulous planning and communication with forwarders, including providing comprehensive information about origin, destination, commodity, handling requirements, timelines, and technical diagrams specifying cargo dimensions and lifting points.
Specialized equipment and resources are crucial for handling OOG cargo, with considerations for origin site capabilities, transport, cargo handovers, surveys, crane lifts, and customs formalities.
Various transport options are available based on urgency, cargo size, budget, and origin-destination requirements, making careful planning essential for successful OOG cargo movements.
OOG Container Types and Transport:
1. Open Top & Flat Rack Containers: These alternatives to General Purpose containers are suitable for OOG cargo, allowing side or top loading, and can accommodate larger cargo by connecting two or more Flat Racks.
2. RORO Services: Roll-On Roll-Off services are ideal for cargo that can be driven, with vessels equipped with adjustable decks to accommodate cargo of all sizes.
3. Vessel Charter: Full vessel charters are effective for moving substantial non-containerized cargo, with vessels equipped with fixed cranes.
4. Aircraft Charter: Full aircraft charters are suitable for time-critical cargo movements, enabling the transport of large volumes within days.
Conventional Cargo Movements:
Effective handling of shipping containers for LCL (low container load) movements and air freight consignments requires attention to detail and a well-established process, especially when operating across foreign jurisdictions.
Prior planning is fundamental to understanding potential unexpected costs associated with cargo movements. For insights into such costs, a discussion on the Hidden Costs of Shipping is provided.