Intermodal Container Chassis
Shipping containers move between ships, trains and trucks. Truck drivers called drayage drivers haul them on special trailers called chassis. A chassis is simple, but poor inspection and loose twist locks cause serious crashes.
- Drayage Drivers
- Port & Rail Yards
- Fleet Managers
Basics
- A chassis is a frame with axles, tires, lights and brakes. The container sits on top and is locked at its corner castings by twist locks (also called pins).
- Chassis come in 20, 40 and 45-foot lengths, and some adjust (extendable or sliding).
- Chassis are often pooled, which means they may be owned by someone else and shared by many drivers. The driver or motor carrier still must make sure it is safe.
Inspection requirements
- Federal rules (49 CFR 396.11 and 396.12) require the driver of a motor carrier to inspect intermodal equipment before use and accept responsibility, and the provider must keep the equipment in good repair.
- Look at brakes, air lines and couplings, lights and reflectors, tires, wheels, suspension, landing gear, king pin, frame and locking devices.
- Report defects in writing and do not use a chassis that is unsafe.
Twist locks and container
- Confirm all four twist locks are fully engaged and the handles are secured. A tug test or a visual check at the corners can show an unlocked pin.
- Make sure the container is the right size for the chassis and positioned correctly.
- Do not move if a locking pin is not engaged, bent or missing.
- Check the seal and condition of the container; look for damage, leaks and shifting load.
- Know the container weight. A heavy container on a chassis may exceed legal axle weights. See Weight Limits & Scales.
Yard and road hazards
- Busy yards have many trucks, cranes and top-handlers. Follow signs, speed limits and spotters. See Truck Blind Spots.
- Container cranes lower boxes onto chassis; stay out of the lift zone and keep your vehicle in the position the crane operator expects.
- Be careful when coupling and uncoupling chassis and checking the air lines. See Coupling & Uncoupling.
- Watch for high center of gravity in tight turns; containers can tip. Slow down.
Standards & references
Last updated: