Container Trailers Key Terms

Get things moving with the right container trailer key terms

By Catherine Ryan

Whether you need to transport a single load of products via container or need to update your current container trailer fleet, it is important to become familiar with the terminology associated with container trailers.

Container trailers are available in a wide range of sizes and styles to meet almost any container transport need. Before you purchase a new trailer or send your shipments off, learn the following terms: container chassis, drop deck, sidelifter, gooseneck, tri-axle and roll-off.

Container chassis

A container chassis is the framework of the actual container trailer. Chassis are available in a wide range of lengths and strength levels. Most are made of steel and come with various optional features.
Try: Learn all about a wide range of different chassis available from Chassis King at its website.

Drop deck

A drop deck trailer is one in which the bed of the trailer "drops" below the connection between the trailer and the truck. Drop deck trailers help keep the container closer to the road, providing greater stability for heavy loads.
Try: Read an in-depth description of a drop deck trailer at Reinke. The site provides helpful photographs and tips about choosing and using drop deck trailers.

Sidelifter

A sidelifter is a container trailer that is capable of loading and unloading its own containers from the side with a hydraulic crane or cylinder system.
Try: Learn more about sidelifters with a helpful description provided by STEELBRO. The site also provides important information about the rules that govern sidelifters in different regions around the world.

Gooseneck

Gooseneck trailers get their name from the appearance of the trailer's connector, which looks like a goose's neck.
Try: Domatex provides an excellent description of its gooseneck trailer's features along with downloadable spec sheet.

Tri-axle

Tri-axle describes a container trailer with three axles. Three axles is common for trailers, but container trailers are available in several axle configurations.
Try: Visit Truckworld Rental to see photographs of tri-axle trailers and read the specs that are available with each.

Roll-off

Roll-off trailers use a built in hydraulic system to lift one end of the trailer for easy unloading and loading. Roll-off trailers work best for medium loads over shorter distances.
Try: Nedland can provide you with all of the information you will need regarding roll-off trailers. The site also provides helpful photographs and an informative demonstration video.