What Is Out-of-Gauge (OOG) Cargo?

Out-of-Gauge (OOG) cargo refers to shipments that exceed the dimensions of standard shipping containers, whether in length, width, or height. Such cargo cannot fit into conventional containers, requiring specialized transport solutions. Examples include oversized industrial machinery, modular construction components, and large-scale energy equipment. Transporting these shipments safely and efficiently through Iran demands out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo handling services, which provide the expertise, equipment, and planning necessary to manage complex loads.

Here you can see some example of OOG cargo:

Importance of Professional OOG Handling

Transporting OOG cargo in Iran involves significant challenges. Professional services ensure:

• Safety and Compliance: Proper planning and securing techniques reduce the risk of accidents and damage.
• Efficient Logistics: Coordinated routes and timing for out-of-gauge freight minimize delays.
• Cargo Protection: Specialized methods in industrial equipment transport and handling oversized shipments in Iran safeguard valuable assets.
• Risk Management: Identifying obstacles and mitigating potential problems in heavy and oversized shipment services.

Common Industries Using OOG Services

Several sectors depend on professional OOG cargo services for timely and safe delivery:

• Construction: Transporting modular building materials and large machinery.
• Energy & Renewables: Shipping wind turbine components and industrial generators.
• Heavy Manufacturing: Moving large-scale production equipment.
• Mining & Infrastructure: Transferring oversized mining machinery or structural components.

By leveraging professional OOG cargo handling services in Iran, companies can overcome logistical challenges, comply with regulations, and ensure that even the largest or most irregular shipments reach their destination securely.

Types of OOG Cargo

Transporting Out-of-Gauge (OOG) cargo requires understanding the different categories of oversized or non-standard shipments. Each type presents unique challenges and demands specialized handling.

1. Oversized Cargo (Dimensions Exceed Standard)

Oversized cargo refers to shipments that surpass standard container dimensions, either in length, width, or height. Examples include large industrial components, structural beams, and construction modules.

2. Heavy Lift Cargo (Weight Exceeding Limits)

Heavy lift cargo includes extremely heavy equipment that cannot be transported using conventional trucks or containers. Typical examples are transformers, turbines, and large machinery. Professional handling ensures that weight is properly distributed, and specialized trailers or cranes are used, making Heavy-Duty Transport an essential part of this service.

3. Project Cargo (Industrial & Infrastructure Equipment)

Project cargo covers large shipments intended for specific industrial or infrastructure projects. This category often combines both oversized and heavy items, such as complete production lines, power plant equipment, or modular construction units. Expertise in professional project cargo solutions is critical to coordinate logistics, customs, and transport permits.

4. Breakbulk & Modular Cargo

Breakbulk cargo refers to shipments that cannot fit into standard containers and are transported as individual units. Modular cargo involves pre-assembled sections of equipment or structures that can be moved separately and later assembled at the site. Both types require careful planning and specialized handling equipment to prevent damage during transport.

5. Oddly-Shaped Cargo

Oddly-shaped cargo includes items with irregular shapes that make standard transport difficult, such as large tanks, pipes, or sculptures. Transporting these loads safely demands customized securing methods and route planning.

6. Bulk Cargo

Bulk cargo involves large volumes of materials transported unpackaged, such as minerals, grains, or liquids. While bulk cargo may not always exceed container dimensions, in OOG logistics it often requires specialized vehicles or containers due to weight or stability considerations.

Types of Containers for Out-of-Gauge (OOG) Cargo and Their Dimensions

Selecting the right container is a critical first step in managing out-of-gauge cargo. Each container type has specific dimensional allowances and structural characteristics that determine what kind of oversized freight operations it can support. Below are three standard container types frequently used in abnormal load transport in Iran and international heavy logistics.

1️⃣ Flat Rack Containers

Flat racks have no roof and either collapsible or fixed end-walls. This design allows cargo to extend beyond the width or height of a standard container, making them suitable for special cargo transport such as:

• Construction machinery (cranes, excavators, bulldozers)
• Industrial equipment (generators, turbines, compressors)
• Heavy vehicles and large rolling units
• Boats, yachts, and long pipes

Typical parameters:

• 20 ft Flat Rack → Tare ~2,360 kg; Payload ~30,140 kg; Volume ~32.7 m³
• 40 ft Flat Rack → Tare ~5,000 kg; Payload ~40,000 kg; Volume ~62.2 m³

In Iran heavy cargo logistics, flat racks are common for items too wide or tall for enclosed containers.

2️⃣ Open Top Containers

These are standard containers with a removable tarpaulin roof. They allow loading from above—especially when cranes or reach-stackers are required.

Well-suited for:

• Mining and construction machines
• Boats, wood logs, tall vehicles
• Industrial components that must remain upright

Typical dimensions:

• 20 ft Open Top → Tare ~2,260 kg; Payload ~28,220 kg; Volume ~32.7 m³
• 40 ft Open Top → Tare ~3,980 kg; Payload ~26,500 kg; Volume ~66.7 m³
• 40 ft High Cube Open Top → Tare ~4,250 kg; Payload ~28,250 kg; Volume ~74.9 m³

This container type is useful where handling oversized shipments in Iran requires weather protection without restricting height.

3️⃣ Hard Top Containers

Similar to open tops, but the detachable steel roof improves security and rigidity. They are an option for specialized cargo handling when the cargo is both oversized and high-value.

Use cases:

• Heavy machinery with sensitive components
  Industrial modules requiring crane access from above

Typical dimensions:

• 20 ft Hard Top → Tare ~2,260 kg; Payload ~28,220 kg; Volume ~32.7 m³
• 40 ft Hard Top → Tare ~3,980 kg; Payload ~26,500 kg; Volume ~66.7 m³
• 40 ft High Cube Hard Top → Tare ~5,200 kg; Payload ~28,600 kg; Volume ~76.3 m³

Hard tops reduce risks during transporting non-standard cargo in Iran—particularly theft or weather-related damage.

Additional Specialized Equipment for OOG Transport

While flat rack, open top, and hard top containers remain the core solutions for out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo handling services in Iran, some oversized units require alternative equipment. These tools are widely used in Iran heavy cargo logistics and ensure safe and efficient movement of cargo that cannot fit into any container structure.

OOG Cargo Handling Process in Iran

Implementing out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo handling services in Iran requires a structured and well-regulated logistics workflow, considering the country’s strategic position bridging Asia, Europe and the Middle East. Major gateways like Bandar Abbas and Bandar Imam Khomeini support large cargo handling, while operational challenges such as sanctions compliance, customs regulations, and variable inland conditions must be addressed. Effective execution relies on specialized cargo handling in Iran—from cargo assessment to final delivery—especially for breakbulk cargo, industrial machinery, and infrastructure components. Below is a streamlined overview of the process:

1️.Cargo Assessment & Logistics Planning

Technical surveys define dimensions, weight, CoG and sensitivity. This helps in managing out-of-gauge cargo by selecting suitable equipment like flat racks or open tops, plus route feasibility checks for bridges, tunnels and mountainous corridors.

2. Route Engineering & Permitting

Optimized routing includes port entry (often via Bandar Abbas) and inland haulage using Heavy-Duty Transport or Modular Transport. Abnormal load permits must be issued by Iranian authorities for abnormal load transport in Iran and oversized freight operations across national highways or rail.

3.Booking & Compliance Documentation

Documentation must precisely reflect dimensions/CoG and comply with customs and (when applicable) OFAC restrictions. Freight generally needs to be prepaid for Iran-related shipments to avoid delays.

4.Port Operations, Lashing & Re-Handling

Cargo may be lifted onto containerized equipment or moved as special cargo transport Iran via chartered breakbulk vessels. Ports provide lashing, securing, stuffing, and transshipment services based on safety codes.

5.Customs Clearance & Technical Inspections

Clearance time varies depending on cargo sensitivity and testing requirements. Certificates such as COI/COC can be mandatory—especially for machinery or used heavy equipment.

6️.Inland Transportation & Delivery

Using multi-axle trailers and escort vehicles for Iran heavy cargo logistics, the shipment progresses to the final job site under risk-managed supervision, tracking, and insurance compliance.

Required Documentation (Summary)

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List
• Bill of Lading / CMR or TIR Carnet (Transit)
• Certificate of Origin & Insurance Policy
• OOG Declaration + Handling Instructions
• Compliance Form (if sanctions-related)
• COC / COI depending on cargo type
• Road/Rail Permits & Lashing Certificate

Iran freight forwarder for oversized cargo:SASCO

Out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo handling services in Iran require precision and expertise. As one of the best OOG freight forwarders in Iran, SASCO provides end-to-end solutions for abnormal load transport in Iran, including port operations, inland haulage, and breakbulk cargo in Iran management. Our teams plan routes considering bridge limits, terrain, and load distribution. Using certified lifting equipment and multi-axle trailers, we ensure safety and compliance. Each shipment is accompanied by risk assessment, permits, and insurance. For projects demanding professional project cargo solutions or oversized freight operations, SASCO offers reliable execution, minimizing delays and preventing reworks. Heavy cargo logistics is complex—SASCO simplifies it.

Frequently Asked Questions About OOG Cargo Handling Services in Iran (FAQ)

Question: What is the best Iran freight forwarder for oversized cargo?

Answer: Companies like SASCO are recognized as the best Iran freight forwarder for oversized cargo, offering expertise in handling out-of-gauge shipments with advanced equipment.

Question: How is heavy cargo logistics Iran managed?

Answer: In heavy cargo logistics Iran, multi-axle trailers and route planning are used to safely transport heavy loads, adhering to local regulations.

Question: What impact do international shipping Iran sanctions have on cargo transport?

Answer: International shipping Iran sanctions can complicate processes, but with proper permits and OFAC compliance, international freight is feasible.

Question: How much are OOG shipping costs in Iran?

Answer: OOG shipping costs in Iran vary based on dimensions, weight, and route, typically starting from $5,000; consult a freight forwarder for an accurate quote.

Question: How to choose oversized cargo services in Iran?

Answer: For oversized cargo services, select providers experienced in heavy-lift cargo and sanction compliance to ensure safe logistics.