Yesterday when I was looking for information about container chassis trailers on the internet, I found it hard to find a very professional guide on the web, which is why I am writing this article. If you also want to learn more about container chassis trailers, this article is definitely for you.
1. What is a container chassis trailer?
The container chassis trailer is a kind of semi-trailer specially used for transporting containers, its structure is very simple, which consists of walking system, brake system, chassis, support system, lighting system and so on. It can be said that both container side loaders, and flatbed semi-trailers are transformed from container chassis trailers.

1.1 Application of container chassis trailer
Container chassis trailer’s main application is used to transport containers, the invention of container chassis trailer greatly improves the efficiency of logistics transportation, we can often see container chassis trailer in the dock or port.
Common containers are 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft, all of which can be transported by container chassis trailer.
1.2 Why use container chassis trailer?
Using a container chassis is essential for the effective and safe transportation of shipping containers. Think of it as the foundation of a house; it provides the stability and structure needed to keep the container secure. Special locking mechanisms tightly fasten the container to the chassis, ensuring that it won’t shift or fall during transit, thereby minimizing risks.
2. The container chassis trailer size
The common container chassis trailer is 2 axle 20ft, 3 axle 40ft, 3 axle 45ft. Panda Mech supply all size of container chassis trailers for sale & also customized.
2.1 Specification of container chassis trailer
20ft | 40ft | |
Dimension | 7500*2500*1550mm | 12500*2500*1550mm |
Weight | 5600Kg | 6500Kg |
Main Beam | I Section 500mm height Q345/T700 material | “I” Section 500mm height Q345/T700 material |
Twist Lock | 4/8 set ISO Standard | 4/8/12 set ISO Standard |
Suspension | Mechanical / Air / Bogie | Mechanical / Air |
Axle | 2 axles BPW/FUWA/PDME etc | 3 axles, BPW/FUWA brand |
Rim | 8/12 pieces 9.0-22.5 Steel/Aluminum | 8/12 pieces 9.0-22.5 Steel/Aluminum |
Tire | 8/12 pieces 12R22.5 Bridgestone/Triangle/Linglong etc | 8/12 pieces 12R22.5 Bridgestone/Triangle/Linglong etc |
Brake Valve | WABCO | WABCO |
Brake Chamber | 4/6sets T30/30 | 4/6sets T30/30 |
Brake Pipe | Nylon Wire Pipe | Nylon Wire Pipe |
Landing Gear | 28T Lifting JOST/YAHUA | 28T Lifting JOST/YAHUA |
Kingpin | 2″(50mm)/3.5″(90mm) JOST Bolting Type | 2″(50mm)/3.5″(90mm) JOST Bolting Type |
Lights | 12v/24v LED Waterproof | 12v/24v LED Waterproof |
2.2 Dimension of container chassis trailer
20Ft: 7500*2500*1550 mm
40Ft: 12500*2500*1550mm
45Ft: 13950*2500*1550
2.3 Spec of ISO tank chassis
Dimension | 12500*2500*1250-1550mm |
Height | 1250-1550mm |
Width | 2500mm |
Weight | 5600Kg |
Main Beam | “I” Section 500mm hieght Q345/T700 matirial |
Twist Lock | 12/14 set ISO Standard |
Suspension | Mechanical / Air / Bogie |
Axle | 2/3/4 axles BPW/FUWA/PDME etc |
Rim | 8/12/16 pieces 9.0-22.5 Steel/Aluminum |
Tire | 8/12/16 pieces 12R22.5 Bridgeston/Triangle/Linglong etc |
Brake Valve | WABCO |
Brake Chamber | 4/6/8 sets T30/30 |
Air Tank | 28L |
Brake Pipe | Nylon Wire Pipe |
Landing Gear | 28T Lifting JOST/YAHUA |
Kingpin | 2″(50mm)/3.5″(90mm) JOST Bolting Type |
Lights | 12v/24v LED Waterproof |
2.4 Specification of gooseneck container chassis
Dimension | 7500*2500*1550mm |
Height | 1400mm, 1550 |
Width | 2500mm |
Skeletal trailer weight | 5600Kg |
Main Beam | “I” Section 500mm height Q345/T700 material |
Twist-Lock | 4/8 set ISO Standard |
Suspension | Mechanical / Air / Bogie |
Axle | 3 axles BPW/FUWA/PDME etc |
Rim | 8/12 pieces 9.0-22.5 Steel/Aluminum |
Tire | 8/12 pieces 12R22.5 Bridgestone/Triangle/Linglong etc |
Brake Valve | WABCO |
Brake Chamber | 4/6sets T30/30 |
Brake Pipe | Nylon Wire Pipe |
Landing Gear | 28T Lifting JOST/YAHUA |
Kingpin | 2″(50mm)/3.5″(90mm) JOST Bolting Type |
Lights | 12v/24v LED Waterproof |
2.5 Specification container side loader
Brand: PANDA Mech
Maximum lifting weight: 37 tons
Dimension:14200*2500*4200mm
Suspension: Mechanical
Axle:3
Tires:12pcs
Material: High strength steel
Crake: WABCO emergency valve
King pin: 2/3.5 feet
Landing gear: Jost
Power source: Power take-off/diesel APU
Operation mode: Wireless remote control and manual operation
3. How much is a container chassis?
20 Ft container chassis price: $6,900-$8,000.
40 Foot container chassis price: $7,500-$10,500.
45 Feet container chassis price: $8,500-$13,000.
Related: How much does container chassis cost?
3.1 How much is a container trailer
20Ft gooseneck container trailer price: $7500-$9500.
40 Foot gooseneck container trailer price: $8200-$10600.
45 Feet gooseneck container trailer price: $8500-$14000.
20 Ft shipping container trailer for sale: $7800-$8500.
40 Ft shipping container trailer for sale: $8000-$9200.
45 Foot shipping container trailer for sale: $8300-$9700.
Related: What is the container trailer
3.2 Brand new container chassis for sale
Brand new container chassis price: $6,900-$13,000.
3.3 How much is a used container chassis?
Used container chassis price: $2000-$8000. (Panda Mech doesn’t supply used container chassis trailers for sale, because their quality is not always guaranteed.)
4. How many types does container chassis trailer have?
The container chassis trailer has 5 types, standard container chassis trailer, ISO tank chassis, gooseneck container chassis, tilt container chassis, and extended container chassis trailer.
4.1 Standard container chassis trailer
Standard container chassis trailers can be 20ft 40ft and 45ft.
A standard container chassis is the workhorse of the shipping world, providing a stable and secure platform for transporting shipping containers over land. It’s essentially the backbone that allows for the safe journey of goods from ports to warehouses or other destinations.
Made from high-grade steel, a standard chassis is built to last and handle. Specialized locking systems ensure that the container remains firmly in place, reducing the risk of accidents or damage to the cargo.

4.2 ISO tank chassis trailer
ISO tank chassis trailer can be only 20ft.
An ISO tank chassis is a specialized trailer designed specifically for transporting ISO tank containers, which hold liquids, gases, or powders. Unlike standard shipping containers, these tanks require additional support and security due to their contents’ sensitive nature. The ISO tank chassis provides this, ensuring that the container remains stable and secure throughout its journey.

4.3 Gooseneck container chassis trailer
Gooseneck container chassis trailer can be 40ft, 45ft.
The role of Gooseneck container chassis trailer is also mainly used to transport containers, because of its unique gooseneck design, it can reduce the overall height by 15cbm, which is very important for some countries with limited weight.

4.4 Tilt container chassis trailer
Tilt container chassis trailer can be 20ft, 40ft.
With its tilting mechanism, this tilt container chassis allows for easy ground-level loading and unloading of containers, simplifying the logistics process. Its design emphasizes safety and efficiency, using hydraulic systems to securely tilt the container.

4.5 Extended container chassis trailer
Extended container chassis can be used to transport most sizes of containers because it’s variable.
Designed with an extendable frame, this chassis can adjust its length to accommodate various sizes of shipping containers. This is particularly useful for transporting non-standard or oversized containers that don’t fit on traditional chassis.
5. How to choose container chassis trailer
Choosing the right container chassis is crucial for efficient and safe transport. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Container Size: Match the chassis length to the size of the containers you’ll be transporting. Some chassis are extendable for various sizes.
- Weight Capacity: Make sure the chassis can handle the weight of your container plus its contents. Overloading can be dangerous and illegal.
- Material: Look for high-quality steel construction for durability and longevity.
- Locking Mechanisms: Ensure the chassis has reliable locks to securely fasten the container, especially if you’re moving sensitive or hazardous materials.
- Ease of Loading: Consider designs like Gooseneck or Tilt chassis for easier and more efficient loading and unloading procedures.
- Terrain and Environment: Think about the conditions where the chassis will be used. For rugged terrains, a more robust chassis may be needed.
- Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the chassis meets all local, state, and federal regulations, including safety standards.
- Budget: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality and safety should never be compromised.
6. Should I lease or buy
Leasing could be your best bet if preserving capital is crucial for your business. It’s more cost-effective in the short term and offers flexibility. But if you’re looking to minimize total expenses over time and have the upfront capital, buying is the more economical choice in the long run.
6.1 Key Differences between Buying and Leasing:
Buying: More cost-effective over the long term; ideal if you’re frequently shipping goods; allows for modifications; provides more control during chassis shortages.
Leasing: More affordable in the short term; suitable for occasional shipping needs; typically doesn’t allow for modifications; may have limited availability during chassis shortages.
Conclusion
The whole introduction about container chassis trailer ends here, container chassis trailer is divided into five types, each type has different applications, we should buy according to our actual needs. If you don’t know what type of container chassis trailer you should choose, contact us immediately to get a consultation.