Shop high-quality container chassis — durable, reliable, and perfect for transporting shipping containers. Designed for safe, efficient handling of containers over long distances
Models: 20' | 40' | 45' | 53' (Fixed, Slider, and Tri-Axle)
Compliance: FMVSS, DOT, AAR, and ANSI Standards
1. Product Overview
Shipping chassis are the essential backbone of intermodal logistics, providing the bridge between sea-freight and inland delivery. A chassis is a specialized semi-trailer designed specifically to carry the weight of fully loaded shipping containers while maintaining a low center of gravity for road safety.
At Worthy Container, we provide high-grade chassis in both New and Used (Refurbished/Roadworthy) conditions. Our fleet includes standard tandem-axle units for general freight and heavy-duty tri-axle configurations for overweight specialty loads.
2. Technical Specifications Comparison
| Feature | 20ft Chassis | 40ft Chassis | 45ft Chassis | 53ft Chassis |
| Overall Length | ~23' 6" | ~40' 8" | ~45' 8" | ~53' 8" |
| Overall Width | 96" (Standard) | 96" (Standard) | 96" (Standard) | 102" (Wide) |
| Tare Weight | ~6,400 lbs | ~6,800 lbs | ~7,400 lbs | ~8,500 lbs |
| GVWR | ~65,000 lbs | ~65,000 lbs | ~65,000 lbs | ~68,000+ lbs |
| Twist Locks | 4 (Corners) | 4 (Corners) | 4 (Corners) | 4 (Corner/Tunnel) |
3. Structural Construction & Components
Material: High-tensile, hot-rolled structural steel (Grade 50 or 80).
Beams: "I-Beam" or "Fabricated Tee" main rails designed to resist twisting and bowing under concentrated container loads.
Gooseneck: Standard on 40ft+ models to accommodate the tunnel recess of High Cube (HC) containers, ensuring the total vehicle height remains within legal road limits.
Axles: Dual tandem axles (22,500 lb capacity each) are standard.
Tri-Axle Option: Available for 20ft and 40ft units intended for overweight cargo (e.g., heavy machinery or liquids), distributing weight more evenly to comply with bridge laws.
Suspension: Heavy-duty underslung spring suspension or optional air-ride systems for sensitive cargo.
Function: Every chassis features four heavy-duty retractable or fixed twist locks. These mechanically lock the container’s corner castings to the chassis frame.
Bolsters: Front and rear bolsters are engineered to absorb the vibration of high-speed transit.
4. Key Models & Configurations
20ft Slider/Extendable: Designed for tight urban deliveries. Some 20ft units "slide" to change length, allowing for better weight distribution over the rear axles.
40ft Gooseneck: The industry workhorse. Designed for standard 40ft dry and refrigerated containers.
40ft/45ft Extendable: A versatile chassis that can be adjusted to carry either a 40ft or a 45ft container by extending the rear frame.
53ft Domestic Chassis: Specifically designed for the North American domestic market to carry 53ft High Cube containers. Features a wider 102" stance for increased stability.
5. Condition Categories: New vs. Used
Technology: Equipped with the latest LED lighting systems (sealed wiring harnesses) and ABS (Anti-lock Braking Systems) as per current DOT regulations.
Tires/Brakes: 100% new rubber and brake linings.
Finish: Sandblasted and coated with high-zinc primer and marine-grade urethane paint for maximum rust prevention.
Best For: Long-term fleet leasing and heavy-use daily drayage.
Grading: Worthy Container ensures all used chassis pass a rigorous inspection.
Standards: Units are sold "Roadworthy," meaning they meet FHWA (Federal Highway Administration) safety standards.
Maintenance: We verify tire tread depth, brake thickness, and the integrity of the air-line system before delivery.
Best For: On-site terminal movement, seasonal peaks, or budget-conscious private transport.
6. Safety & Maintenance Requirements
Twist Lock Inspection: Lubricate twist lock handles regularly to ensure they lock and unlock without force. A jammed twist lock can cause severe delays at port terminals.
Brake System: Drain moisture from air tanks daily in cold climates to prevent frozen lines.
Lighting: Inspect the 7-way electrical plug for corrosion to ensure turn signals and brake lights remain fully functional.
Landing Gear: Grease the landing gear legs and crank handle every 6 months to ensure the chassis can be easily coupled or dropped when fully loaded.
7. Site Preparation & Delivery
Storage Surface: Chassis should be stored on a hard, level surface. When parked with a load, use "mud pads" or dunnage under the landing gear legs if the ground is soft (asphalt/dirt) to prevent sinking.
Stacking (Chassis Racks): For transport of multiple empty units, chassis can be "stacked" in sets of 3 to 5 to reduce freight costs.
Delivery: Worthy Container can deliver chassis via "Bobtail" (single delivery) or in stacks via flatbed trailer.
Coupling: Ensure the truck’s fifth wheel is properly greased and the kingpin height is aligned before attempting to couple the chassis.
Please refer to the lists of our available shipping container chassis below for each location. Let us know if you require any further assistance