Before we can talk about what you might need to know regarding container side lifters, let’s help out the few individuals reading this that aren’t quite sure what a container side lifter is. It is used to transport, over long distances, standard containers. It’s sort of a semi-trailer that has been specialized or customized. You may also hear this type of container transfer equipment referred to as a container side loader.
What Makes Up A Container Side Lifter?
Into the trailer chassis of one of these side lifters, cranes or lift modules are installed. They can also be fitted onto the truck-mounted subframe. These modules are frequently made from proven, quality-high tensile steel. The need for superior strength capabilities requires the use of steel.
Some of the outstanding features included here can be hydraulic controlled stabilizer jibs and leg. These are powered from an APU (auxiliary power unit) or a PTO (power take off). These lift modules smoothly slide outwards or inwards for 45’, 40’, and 20’ positions.
Of the utmost importance is learning the specs, dimensions, and capacity of the container side lifter/loader that you will be using. This cannot be stressed enough!
Container Side Lifter Types
An in-line model installed with lifting jibs and a stabilizer leg inline make up the conventional container side lifter. Some models can have holders that are dual sided supplied together with leg over or dragger leg stabilizers. Based on the design of the chassis, container side lifters can also be categorized as the following:
- I-beam chassis
- Lattice chassis
Design Features of a Container Side Lifter
The following features are contained within a side lifter:
- The remote control
- Chassis
- The tractor/cab
- Chains
- Stabilizing legs
- Driving power unit
- Lifting cranes
Design Considerations for Container Side Lifters
The design of container side lifter trailers can vary depending on productivity gains. These can include flexible, fast, and safe container handling operations. Ideally, your goal is to have a competitive edge, increase your profits, and cut down on transportation expenses. Using a side lifter trailer will take your existing capacity to safely and quickly move containers and increase it significantly.
Used in the building of a container side lifter are detailed design considerations. Some of these are as follows:
- Payload carrying capabilities
- Workspace
- Control
- Stability
- Container transfer
Why Use Container Size Lifters?
There are definite benefits to the utilization of container side lifters. Many of the benefits depend on the use of the above mentioned design considerations. Some benefits are as follows:
- Can be used to transport more than just containers
- Reduced operation costs
- You can double stack containers
- Transporting can take place anytime, anywhere via most any road
- Hazardous, valuable, and fragile cargo can be handled safely
- Minimal maintenance requirements due to reliable equipment and tough construction
- The lifting operations don’t require excessive equipment or operators
- Increases productivity and efficiency by allowing for movement of many containers per day
Side Lifter Container Loading Applications
Because of its many applications, a side lifter container is one of the most versatile and effective pieces of container handling equipment. The following are just a few applications:
- Double stack containers on loading platforms
- Off load it on the ground or use it to load other trailers or trucks
- Perfect for use at any suitable rail siding such as rail yards, transportation depots, etc.
If you have one of our trailers from Mickey Genuine Parts and transport large containers on a regular basis, you may be able to make good use of a container side lifter. We carry numerous parts, accessories, and used trailers for the transportation industry. Contact us today if you have any questions.