Project cargo shipping for chemical plant equipment
Process equipment such as reactors, tanks, columns and heat exchangers is long, heavy and often out of gauge. Cylindrical bodies are chocked against rolling and flanges and nozzles are protected.
Typical machines and equipment
- Reactors and agitated tanks
- Distillation columns
- Heat exchangers
- Storage tanks
- Pumps, filters and drying units
- Piping and skid modules
What to watch in transit
- Chocking cylindrical bodies
- Protecting flanges and nozzles
- Information on internal cleanliness and empty/charged status
- Loading and unloading plan for long bodies
Suitable equipment and method
- Flat rack: For long, heavy tanks and columns.
- Open top: For smaller process equipment loaded from above.
- Break bulk: For very large reactors and columns.
What we need to plan
- Diameter, length and gross weight
- Lifting and securing points
- Internal status (empty, cleaned, nitrogen-filled)
- HS code and documentation details
Frequently asked questions
How are reactors and tanks transported?
Flat rack or break bulk is chosen by body size. Cylindrical bodies are chocked and secured and flanges and nozzles are protected. Diameter, length and weight are needed for the plan.
What does out-of-gauge cargo mean?
Cargo exceeding the internal length, width or height of a standard container is out of gauge. It travels on flat rack or open top equipment, often with special permits and a securing plan.
What is lashing and why is it needed?
Lashing is securing cargo with chains, straps and wedges so it cannot shift or tip during sea and road transport. It is the basis of safe carriage for heavy and oversize machinery and is planned by weight, centre of gravity and method.
What are the dimensions and weight limit of a flat rack container?
A flat rack is a platform-type container without side walls or a roof, available in 20 ft and 40 ft versions. Dimensions and payload vary by manufacturer. Detailed values are in our Container Dimensions tool.