Platform containers are the most open type of ISO container - essentially a heavy-duty flat base without walls or roof. Their design allows unrestricted loading from any side or from above, making them ideal for goods that cannot be accommodated in any other container type due to their dimensions or weight.

The platform base is engineered to hold static loads of up to 85,000 kg for break bulk shipments, with the platform structure itself rated to carry up to 60,000 kg. 40ft platform containers feature a gooseneck tunnel on both ends for compatibility with standard trailer handling equipment. The units can be interlocked in stacks - up to 7 for the 20ft version and up to 4 for the 40ft - and are equipped with forklift slots and strong lashing equipment throughout.

Flooring is available in wood or steel, depending on the weight and nature of your cargo. Platform containers are used extensively in logistics, agriculture, and construction, particularly for transporting unique, odd-shaped, or very heavy cargo.

Learn more about shipping container sizes and their applications.

• Industrial machinery transport: Carry large machinery, turbines, generators, and industrial plant that are too large or heavy for any enclosed container type.
• Aeroplane and aerospace components: Transport aircraft fuselage sections, wings, or large aeronautical components requiring an entirely open loading environment.
• Long pipes and structural steel: Move long pipes, beams, and structural steel sections that extend beyond the length of a standard container.
• Agricultural equipment: Transport large tractors, combine harvesters, and wide farm machinery without the need for dismantling.
• Cargo vessel and ferry transport: Use on small cargo vessels or ferries for transporting goods between ports where a flatbed platform is the most practical option.
• Construction project logistics: Move prefabricated concrete sections, bridge components, and large construction elements with maximum flexibility.
• Vehicles and rolling stock: Load oversized or heavy road vehicles, trailers, and specialist construction vehicles for transport.

1. Should I hire or buy a platform container?

Hire is a practical option for one-off or occasional heavy-cargo moves, while buying suits businesses that regularly transport oversized or ultra-heavy loads. Willbox offers platform containers for hire or purchase in 20ft and 40ft sizes.

2. What size platform container do I need for heavy cargo?

A 20ft platform suits smaller machinery or single heavy items, while the 40ft version, fitted with a gooseneck tunnel on both ends, is designed for compatibility with standard trailer handling equipment on larger loads. Willbox can advise on the right size based on your cargo's weight and dimensions.

3. How much weight can a platform container carry?

The platform base is engineered to hold static loads of up to 85,000kg for break bulk shipments, with the platform structure itself rated to carry up to 60,000kg. This makes it suitable for industrial machinery, structural steel, and other ultra-heavy or oversized cargo.

4. What flooring options are available on a platform container?

Flooring is available in wood or steel, depending on the weight and nature of your cargo. Willbox can help you choose the right specification for your specific load.

5. Can platform containers be loaded from any direction?

Yes, with no sidewalls, end walls, or roof, cargo can be loaded from every direction, including from above by crane. This makes them ideal for uniquely shaped or oversized items that won't fit inside any enclosed container type.

6. How are platform containers delivered given their weight and size?

Because platform containers can carry loads up to 85,000kg, delivery and offloading often requires a crane or specialist heavy-lift equipment rather than a standard HIAB. Willbox can advise on the right transport and offloading method based on your site access and the cargo you'll be loading.