The global shipping industry was transformed by containerization, but some cargo simply cannot be containerized - and never will be. A 200-tonne transformer, a 50-metre wind turbine blade, a complete distillation column, or a mining haul truck body poses a logistical challenge that no amount of standard container expertise can solve. Heavy lift and out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo requires a completely different approach, different equipment, different carriers, and a different level of pre-movement planning.
Defining "Out of Gauge" and "Heavy Lift"
Out of gauge (OOG) cargo exceeds the standard container dimensions - typically 2.35m wide, 2.35m high, or 12m long for a 40-foot flat-rack. Cargo that extends beyond these dimensions requires special stowage on a vessel and may require structural engineering calculations to verify the flat-rack can support the load distribution.
Heavy lift cargo refers to individual pieces that exceed the standard lifting capacity of conventional port equipment - typically above 80-100 tonnes per lift. Heavy lift moves require cranes specifically rated for the piece weight, rigging engineering, and in many cases, the heavy-lift vessel provides its own crane capability rather than relying on port infrastructure.
The Pre-Shipment Survey
Before any OOG or heavy lift shipment is booked, a pre-shipment survey is conducted to establish:
- Exact dimensions (length, width, height) and weight of each piece
- Center of gravity location (critical for lifting and lashing calculations)
- Structural attachment points available for lifting and securing
- Sensitivity of the cargo (electronics, precision instruments, or fragile components within the larger assembly)
- Restrictions on transport orientation (some cargo must remain upright; others cannot be tilted beyond a defined angle)
Vessel Selection for OOG and Heavy Lift Cargo
Regular container vessels have limited heavy lift capability - most have a maximum crane lift of 36-40 tonnes at standard outreach. For heavier pieces, specialized multipurpose vessels (MPV) or semi-submersible heavy-lift vessels are required. These vessels feature:
- Heavy-lift cranes capable of 100-2,000 tonnes per lift
- Reinforced decks and holds for structural cargo
- Tweendeck configurations for protected but non-containerized cargo
Special Transport Permits for Inland Movement
The port is rarely the final destination. Getting OOG cargo from the port to the project site requires inland transport by road or rail on specialized vehicles - low-loaders, multi-axle trailers, and self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs) for the heaviest pieces. Most countries require special transport permits for this type of movement, and route surveys must be conducted to identify bridge weight restrictions, overhead clearances, and road surface limitations.
How TMG Manages OOG Moves
TMG coordinates heavy lift and OOG shipments from Philippine ports, managing cargo surveys, vessel selection and booking, lashing engineering, special permits, and delivery coordination. Our project logistics team has experience with industrial project cargo across energy, construction, and manufacturing sectors.