Loading a shipping container onto an intermodal flatbed chassis is a critical intersection where heavy machinery meets precision engineering. While it is entirely possible to load an intermodal container on a flatbed trailer, it requires heavy lifting and precise alignment to ensure safe transportation.
Considering the weight of regulations and safety in the supply chain industry, it is vital to understand the importance of correct container loading. When loading niche trailer types like a flatbed chassis, follow these steps to ensure compliance and overall security.
1. Position and Prepare the Chassis
Before the heavy lifting begins, the site and equipment must be ready. All lifting equipment and the chassis must be parked on firm, level ground to avoid misalignment when lowering the container. Additionally, engage the tractor’s parking brakes and place wheel chocks under the chassis tires to prevent any sudden movement.
A thorough chassis check is also recommended to ensure that it is the right size for the container. Moreover, verify that all twist locks are in the unlocked or retracted position and clear of debris.
2. Lift Precision Alignment
This stage is perhaps one of the most critical, and will require specialized container-handling equipment like a reach stacker, a gantry crane, or a heavy-duty container forklift. The operator must lift and align the four bottom corner castings directly over the chassis’ twist locks.
Lowering must be slow, and spotters may be used to confirm that all four pins enter the corner castings simultaneously. Aligning the container with the corner castings prevents the container from hanging or binding on one side.
3. Lock and Secure
Once the container is flush against the chassis frame, it must be mechanically locked to the vehicle. Manually or hydraulically rotate the twist lock handles 90°. This moves the head of the pin inside the corner casting, anchoring the container to the frame.
Once secured, inspectors must walk the perimeter and perform a visual inspection to ensure every handle is in the locked position. On standard flatbeds without built-in locks, operators must instead use chains and binders in an “X” position to prevent lateral or longitudinal movement. A “4-chain and 4-binder” method is often used for maximum security.
4. Final Departure Checks
After loading and locking the container, a final mandatory inspection is required. Ensure the load is evenly distributed and compliant with DOT weight limits to prevent instability. Additionally, verify the Verified Gross Mass (VGM) and ensure all placards for hazardous materials are visible.
Ensure a Safe and Reliable Operation with CIE Manufacturing
Flatbed trailers can transport two 20-foot containers or a single 40-foot container at a time, as long as the right loading practices are observed. By following these steps, you can safely load ISO containers onto your chassis with ease.
If you are looking to upgrade your fleet with reliable intermodal chassis designed for specific transport needs, choose CIE Manufacturing. We are one of the global leaders in producing high-performance intermodal equipment for operational safety, efficiency, and compliance.
Visit the official CIE Manufacturing website or contact 877.711.0725 to explore our diverse products and capabilities.