Steel pipes are typically shipped on flat rack containers, which have a flat base with collapsible end walls but no roof or side walls, allowing oversized or long cargo to be loaded and secured from above and from the sides. Open top containers are used where pipes fit within standard container width and height but cannot be top-loaded. For very long sections that require extending beyond the flat rack ends, specialist lashing and out-of-gauge documentation is required. We assess the right container type based on your pipe specifications.

Protection depends on the pipe grade, coating, and voyage duration. Options include wrapping pipe ends with VCI film or end caps to prevent moisture ingress at cut surfaces, applying desiccant packs inside bundled sections, applying a light protective oil coating to bare metal surfaces, and wrapping with waterproof film for longer voyages. We advise on the appropriate protection level for your specific pipes and transit route.

A standard 40ft flat rack has a maximum payload of approximately 40 tonnes depending on the container spec. Port crane limits and vessel stow positions also impose practical weight limits. For very heavy steel products, we may recommend splitting into multiple containers or using breakbulk arrangements where the pipes are loaded directly into the vessel hold without a container. We calculate total weight per container before booking to confirm feasibility.