Out of Gauge Cargo

Out of Gauge Cargo (OOG), cargo can be defined as any cargo that cannot be loaded into six-sided shipping containers because it is too large. All cargo with dimensions beyond the maximum 40HC container dimensions is categorized under Out of Gauge Cargo. It exceeds 12.05m in length, 2.33m in width, and 2.59m in height. Are you looking to ship Out of Gauge Cargo? Read on to discover the essential details you need and the challenges you may come across when handling Out of Gauge Cargo.

What You Need to Know When Dealing with OOG Cargo

Along with its unique requirements, oversized cargo comes with substantial challenges for a freight forwarder. Prior to transporting the load, a detailed analysis of all shipping features needs to be conducted to perform this operation effectively and safely. Accurate information should be provided to your forwarder is essential. Let’s discuss the necessary cargo details.

A Well-defined Scope of Work

Provide your forwarder with as much information as you can and as early as possible. Provide information on the commodity, destination, origin, and the term of carriage. It is better if you can give further details, such as the destination parties, the handling capacity of origin and site requirements, cargo sensitivity, site access, and if cranes will be required.

• Timelines – provide information on when the OOG cargo will be ready to be transported and if the cargo needs to be delivered by a specific date. When communicated in advance, timelines can be reviewed, and action is taken to ensure they are met.
• Technical diagrams – Provide technical details about the cargo, as prepared by an engineer. Details include the center of gravity, cargo dimensions, and lifting points. The technical diagrams will determine the proper equipment and lashing needed to lift, haul, and secure the cargo.
• Designing a tailored OOG solution – A comprehensive working plan will establish the OOG cargo handling framework. The unique requirements of the cargo need to be considered in the plan. More complex projects require more substantial plans. All operational inputs are required, from the point the cargo is prepared at the origin facility, to the point cargo is brought to the destination.
• Appropriate resourcing and operational skill – A project cargo specialist equipped with a comprehensive scope of work, defined timeline, and technical diagrams can begin operational planning.

The Operational Activities

The following are some of the essential operational activities when handling OOG cargo:

• Origin Site Capacity – This is the place from which cargo will be picked. Corresponding with key people on-site and even site visits can be valuable and help in cargo collection planning. The capacity of the site needs to be understood by the stakeholders. The following details need to be known: if cranes are accessible, whether there are complete roads on-site, operational hours, if site inductions will be required, etc.
• Transport – Transport can be effectively planned once there’s a clear understanding of the origin site. Site requirements and technical diagrams will inform the kind of equipment used to load the OOG cargo – examples include extendable trailers, multi-axle trailers, etc.
• Cargo Handovers – The process of delivering cargo to cargo handlers and terminal operators at airports and on wharves ought to be moderately simple. They handle huge volumes of cargo every day and have extensive experience and know-how with Out of Gauge Cargo handling. A prior organization with key CTO stakeholders will alleviate any terminal restrictions issues.
• Cargo Surveys – Third-party surveys should be coordinated when cargo is placed at origin and at the first point of rest at the terminus. These reports will give a record of the cargoes condition. If damage has happened in shipment, the survey report will clarify this, and the appropriate action will be taken.