There are multiple different methods, landolls, sideloaders, tilt-beds, and standard flatbed/step-decks. If you have an empty container, using a simple tilt-bed or a landoll would be the most cost-effective option. Using a container to move across the country? Anticipate cranes to load and offload your container and a flatbed to transport it. The “one and done” trucks do not travel long distances, so there needs to be a way to pick up the container off the ground and subsequently put it down on the ground at the destination.

The most common trailer used to transport a container is a standard container chassis. These are primarily found transporting cargo in and out of ports and can be a little hard to come by outside of that area. Landoll’s are common, some can winch up to 35,000lbs. Sidelifters can level lift and transport loaded containers most efficiently without tilting the container. Tilt-bed trailers and drop deck trucks primarily move empty 20’s.

The most effective way to move a container without a crane or forklift is by using a tilted bed trailer, such as a Landoll, or a sidelifter. You will need to ensure that there is enough space around the container for either of these two options.

Typically, an empty 20-foot shipping container weighs between 3,970 - 4,850lbs and an empty 40-foot shipping container weighs 8,340 - 9,260lbs depending on what kind of container it is. But your container will tell you about the exact weight on the door.

Moving a container is usually a multi-step process, so there are a lot of factors to consider to get an idea on pricing. Click here to learn more.