Container Trailer (Chassis)
A container trailer is a semi-trailer chassis pulled by a tractor unit to carry containers, locked by twistlocks at all four corners. Catalogue defaults for a 20-foot chassis are a 24,000 kg payload and a 40,000 kg combination weight, and for a 40-foot chassis 26,000 kg and 42,000 kg. Note that a 20GP's payload of up to 28,250 kg exceeds that trailer limit, so road rules often cap the load before the container does.
Related terms
- Twistlock
A twistlock is a locking device inserted into a container's corner casting and turned so the box locks onto the one below, onto the ship's deck or onto a trailer chassis.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (JBB)
JBB, the Indonesian gross vehicle weight rating, is the maximum weight of a vehicle plus its load as designed by the manufacturer and type-approved, as set out in PP No.
- Road Class
A road class sets the maximum vehicle dimensions and axle load allowed on a road.
- Payload
Payload is the maximum cargo weight a container may carry: maximum gross mass minus tare.
- Dry Container (General Purpose)
A dry or general-purpose container is the standard closed steel box for general cargo that needs no temperature control, coded 22G1 (20GP) or 42G1 (40GP) under ISO 6346.
Covered in these guides
Wingbox vs Box Truck vs Container Trailer: Which One to Use
How wingbox trucks, box trucks and 20', 40' and flatbed trailers compare, including pallet counts on a wingbox deck and Indonesian road class limits.
6 min read Container sizes & capacity20ft Container Dimensions: Inside, Door Opening and Payload
Inside, door and outside dimensions of a 20ft dry container, its 33.2 m³ capacity, 28,250 kg payload, pallet and carton counts, and common loading mistakes.
6 min read