Everything You Need to Know About Shipping Container Trailers

The most common way to transport a modified shipping container – and the most recommended – is by using a tractor trailer. However, there are occasions in which mounting a container on a trailer with a chassis (a frame on wheels that carries the container) is the best solution.

If a company plans to regularly tow their container over poorly maintained roads, or if the container needs some extra height on-site, it’s time to consider transporting your shipping container on a chassis.

Can You Put a Shipping Container on a Trailer?

Typically, modified shipping containers are placed directly on the ground or pre-poured foundation, where they serve as storage units, workspaces, shelters, and other facilities. However, they can instead be securely positioned on a trailer by using a specialty forklift or crane. Below are two use cases in which a chassis (sometimes referred to as a shipping container trailer) was the right solution to solve a height or location challenge.

Use Case 1: Chassis Brings Equipment Storage to the Right Height

One of our customers wanted storage for emergency equipment near their warehouse, which had a raised loading dock. They hoped to place the storage container just outside the warehouse for easy loading and unloading. However, there wasn’t enough room to place the unit directly on the loading dock, and placing the container below the dock – at ground level – would have made it difficult to respond quickly to emergencies. Instead, they needed portable storage that was level with the dock but not actually on the dock.

A chassis added height to the storage container, making it roughly flush with the loading dock. The customer simply parked the storage container trailer at the edge of the warehouse, turning it into an extension of the dock space. In an emergency, employees can quickly access the container, roll-up the overhead door, and gather the necessary equipment without needing stairs to reach the door. The company also appreciates the convenience to quickly hitch and relocate the container around the warehouse when needed.

This shipping container-based storage will be level with warehouse loading docks thanks to the chassis.

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Use Case 2: Chassis Mitigates Risks of Transporting Over Rough Roads

A different customer needed temporary housing for its oil field workers at wellheads. Housing for oil field workers must be sturdy enough to relocate without suffering damage, especially since the roads leading to oil fields are often just as grueling as the work being done. Therefore, travel trailers and motorhomes quickly fall out of repair, making them a less than ideal solution for these locations.

Falcon provided shipping-container-based living space mounted on a chassis that can be transported and reused for decades without compromise to its structural integrity – a huge long-term savings compared to other options. This workforce housing solution also boosted worker morale. Too often employee comfort was affected after crude, unpaved roads caused damage to climate control systems and other systems. Steel shipping containers stand up to the challenging journey and harsh climate.

A container-based workforce housing unit on a chassis for frequent moves.

How to Transport a Shipping Container on a Chassis

Transporting a shipping container from place to place when mounted on a chassis is simple. Generally, our customers use a six-wheel chassis with 10-ply tires and a gooseneck hitch suited for a heavy-duty pickup truck.

Side note: Most of the businesses that choose to use a chassis to relocate shipping containers have considerable resources at their disposal. How much does a trailer container cost? As discussed in a past blog post, “Think Twice about Shipping Container Homes, Pools, and Bunkers” private individuals will likely find the costs, time, and resources associated with maintaining a chassis and a truck to tow the container unrealistic. We advise careful thought and consideration for all container-based projects.

Think a chassis trailer might make a modified shipping container even more appropriate for your next project? We’re happy to help you determine if this method of raising and/or transporting your container meets your specific functionality or location needs. Just reach out with your questions by contacting us at 877-704-0177 or emailing Sales@FalconStructures.com.