THE BENEFITS OF USING A 40FT CHASSIS IN FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION

A container chassis also called an intermodal chassis, is important in keeping the container safe and ensuring smooth, efficient transport between ports, terminals, and warehouses. Depending on the individual’s financial demand, the container chassis are designed to transport ISO standard containers which come in two different sizes, which are 20ft and 40ft. In this blog, Thaco Trailers will provide a comprehensive overview of the benefits of using a 40ft chassis in freight transportation.

1. What is a 40ft chassis?

Container chassis vary mainly in size and the number of axles, typically ranging from 2 to 8. One of the most common lengths is 40ft chassis, which offers a stable and dependable platform for transporting 40ft containers. This ensures the secure handling and efficient movement of goods across various industries. A standard chassis is generally used for transporting ISO containers 40ft in length.

>> Read more: How to choose the right 40ft container chassis for Logistics needs

2. Benefits of using a 40ft chassis in freight transportation

In the logistics and transportation industry, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability are key factors that drive success. The use of a 40ft chassis, a standard in container transportation, offers numerous advantages that align with these factors. This type of chassis is engineered to carry 40-foot containers, which are widely used for transporting goods across various industries. By utilizing a 40ft chassis, businesses can enhance their transportation capabilities, reduce operational costs, and benefit from seamless intermodal compatibility. Below, Thaco Trailers will explore the key benefits of using a 40ft chassis in freight transportation.

Improve transportation capabilities

One of the primary benefits of a 40ft chassis is its ability to significantly improve transportation compatibility. The 40ft container is the most commonly used due to the balance between large cargo size and maneuverability when transporting through urban areas. This means the 40ft chassis is the best choice to increase the volume of goods that can be hauled per trip. This not only maximizes the payload but also minimizes the number of trips required, leading to more efficient use of resources.

Additionally, the slider variant of the 40ft chassis can also adjust the position of its rear axles, resulting in a more even weight distribution, which can be useful when managing axle load while carrying containers with uneven cargo loading, making it a versatile solution for different transportation needs. By improving the load capacity and versatility, a 40ft chassis enhances overall logistics efficiency, ensuring that goods reach their destination on time and in optimal condition.

Cost-Effectiveness

By accommodating the most common container size with the correct chassis size, transportation costs can be tremendously reduced as the total of trips made and cargo reloading time are minimized. Besides the financial costs saved, it can also help reduce a business’s environmental impact, as well as ensure compliance with transportation weight limits.

Intermodal Compatibility

In today’s globalized world, freight often needs to be transported across multiple modes of transportation, such as trucks, trains, and ships. To ensure efficient transportation and eliminate unnecessary time loss due to loading and unloading, the ISO sets standards for intermodal sizes that most international transporting business follows, including 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft. The 40ft chassis is designed with international intermodal compatibility in mind, as 40ft is the most common container size for international transportation of the ISO standards, making it an ideal choice for businesses involved in international trade or complex logistics operations. This compatibility ensures that containers can be seamlessly transferred from one mode of transportation to another without the need for reloading between each transfer, which can be time-consuming and costly. The smooth transition between different transportation modes not only reduces the risk of delays but also enhances the overall efficiency of the supply chain. As a result, the use of a 40ft chassis contributes to faster delivery times, reduced handling costs, and improved reliability in freight transportation.

>> Read more: What is a shipping container chassis? Types and uses explained

3. Factors to consider when choosing the suitable 40ft chassis

Selecting the right 40ft chassis ensures efficient, cost-effective, and reliable freight transportation. With various options available, businesses must carefully evaluate several factors to determine the most suitable chassis for their specific needs. The right choice will depend on the type of cargo, the operating environment, and the logistical requirements of the business. Making an informed decision can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and increased longevity of the equipment. In this section, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing the most suitable 40ft chassis.

Type of 40ft chassis

There are different types of 40ft chassis designed to accommodate various transportation needs. The most common types include the standard 40ft chassis, which is used for transporting general containers and has a fixed structure, the gooseneck chassis, which provides a lower deck height for increased stability and is often used for high-cube containers; and the extendable chassis, which can be adjusted to different lengths to accommodate various container sizes.

When choosing a chassis, it is essential to consider the type of cargo being transported. For instance, if you need transportation of containers of various sizes, you may need a heavy-duty or extendable chassis. On the other hand, if your focus is on transporting standard containers, a regular 40ft chassis might be sufficient. Understanding your operation’s specific needs will help you select the right type of chassis.

>> Read more: The Advantages of Using Combo Chassis in Transportation

Dimensions

The dimensions of the 40ft chassis, including its height, width, and length, are critical factors that influence its compatibility with the containers and transportation methods used.

Durability – Flexibility

Durability and flexibility are key considerations, especially for businesses involved in long-haul or heavy-duty transportation. A 40ft chassis must be built with high-quality materials, such as high-tensile steel, to withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh environmental conditions. The chassis should also offer flexibility in handling various cargo loads. For example, a chassis with adjustable features or reinforced components can accommodate different container sizes and weights, providing greater versatility in operations.

Additional Features

Modern 40ft chassis models come with various additional features designed to enhance performance and ease of use. Some critical features include:

• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): ABS helps prevent wheel lockup during braking, especially for heavily loaded vehicles, increasing braking efficiency and the lifespan of the chassis. Statistics indicate that ABS can reduce the risks of accidents by up to 30%.
• PSI Tire Inflation System with Thermal Alert: The tire will be automatically inflated or deflated to ensure that the tire pressure is maintained at a stable level during operation, thus helping to extend the tire lifespan.
• Lighting: LED lighting system provides better visibility and lower energy consumption. It assists drivers in quickly detecting problems related to air leaks or tire blowouts in road conditions. Based on the research, LED systems reduce maintenance costs by 50% compared to traditional halogen lights.
• Twist locks: Twist locks ensure containers are securely fastened during transit. It was designed to improve handling and streamline loading/unloading processes.

Overall, these additional features can improve safety and operational efficiency, making the transportation process smoother and more reliable.

4. Roles of container chassis in the transport industry

Container chassis plays a crucial role in the transport industry by providing a stable, solid base for securely attaching cargo containers onto trucks, trains, and ships, enabling safe and efficient loading, unloading, and transportation by road, rail, and sea, while minimizing the risk of damage during transport.

5. Regulations on the use of 40ft container trucks according to international practice

Adherence to international regulations is essential when using a 40ft chassis for container transportation. These regulations govern aspects such as maximum weight, height restrictions, and safety requirements.

Weight

Since 2015, the government has introduced new regulations on the maximum allowable weight for 40ft container trucks, which has posed considerable challenges for businesses. Specifically, under the new regulations, 40ft container trucks are permitted to carry a maximum load of 44,500 lbs.
However, as indicated by the size chart provided by Thaco Trailers above, the weight of the container shell alone is 4 to 4.5 tons. This means that a container is not allowed to carry more than 25 tons of goods – an amount that many businesses find too low compared to the storage capacity of a 40ft container, leading to inefficiencies for companies.
Nevertheless, these regulations are implemented to ensure the safety of individuals and to facilitate smooth and efficient transportation.

• Type of Cargo: Heavier freight typically results in reduced utilization of container volume compared to lighter freight. Thus, weight limit regulations are designed to operate regions and ensure compliance with transport and traffic safety standards.
• Packaging Method: Neatly and compactly packaged cargo will fit more into the container compared to bulky packaging.
• Allowed Payload of the Truck: In the USA, the allowed payload for an ISO standard 40ft container truck is 44,500 lbs.
• Size and Shape of Cargo: Bulky or irregularly shaped cargo can take up more space in the container, reducing the total amount that can be carried.
• Transportation Safety Regulations: Dangerous or flammable goods may have restrictions on quantity or transport methods, leading to reduced cargo capacity.

Height and Length

The reason why we should pay attention to the exact length and height of 40ft container chassis is because when traveling on roads, passing under bridges or tunnels, if the container’s dimensions are too large, it will obstruct traffic and cargo transport, while also increasing the risk of accidents.

>> Read more: Understanding the 20ft container chassis: Dimensions and benefits

6. Thaco Trailers’ 40ft Chassis: The Efficient Solution in Freight Transportation

Thaco Trailers’ 40ft chassis is a premier choice in freight transportation due to its outstanding quality and optimal design. Crafted from high-tensile steel, these chassis offer outstanding durability and longevity. They are engineered to handle substantial loads, supporting up to 67,040 lbs, ensuring safe and stable transportation. With intermodal compatibility, they facilitate seamless transfers between different transportation modes. Moreover, Thaco Trailers provides customization options to meet specific operational needs, alongside enhanced safety features and compliance with international standards, making them a cost-effective and reliable choice​.

20’/40′ City Combo Tandem

20’/40′ Combo Tridem

20’/40’ Combo Tandem

40′ Gooseneck Tandem

40’/45′ Extendable Tandem

40′ Gooseneck Lightweight Tandem

Incorporating a 40ft chassis into your freight transportation operations offers significant advantages, from enhanced cargo capacity to improved operational efficiency. Whether you’re looking to streamline your logistics or reduce costs, a 40ft chassis is an efficient transport solution that can meet your needs. Let’s discover Thaco Trailer’s inventory of 40ft for sale to cut down your logistics costs with these essential methods today! If you want to look for more information about our container chassis, please visit our website or contact us directly and we will recommend the right container chassis for you.

Contact Information:

• Hotline: (+84) 933 805 707
• Email address: thacosv@thaco.com.vn