The wheeled frame that supports a shipping container during over-the-road transport.
Detailed Definition
A container chassis is a steel frame with axles, tires, brakes and lights. Twist locks at its corners engage the container's corner castings so the box is held securely while a tractor pulls it on public roads. Chassis come in lengths that match 20, 40 and 45 foot containers, and extendable or combination chassis can carry more than one size. Heavier loads may use tri-axle chassis. In the US, chassis are supplied by chassis pools, leasing companies, ocean carriers in some markets, or the drayage carrier itself, usually with a daily usage charge.
Chassis types and how they are matched to loads
The chassis must match both the container size and the weight being hauled. A standard 40 foot chassis carries a 40 foot or high cube container; a 20 foot heavy load may need a shorter tri-axle chassis to spread weight across more axles and stay within road weight limits. Gooseneck chassis have a lowered front section that fits the tunnel in many 40 foot containers. When booking, give the drayage carrier the container size, type and gross weight so the right chassis is dispatched and no second trip is needed.
Chassis in drayage cost and scheduling
Chassis charges are separate from the trucking rate and from terminal charges. Common items include a daily chassis usage fee, split or repositioning charges when the chassis must be picked up at a different location from the container, and charges for keeping the chassis while a container waits to be unloaded. Container demurrage and per diem are billed separately by the terminal or ocean carrier. Ask for every chassis-related charge on the rate confirmation, and plan dock appointments so loaded containers are emptied and returned quickly.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Who provides the chassis for a container move?
It varies by port and contract. In many US markets, chassis come from regional chassis pools or leasing companies, and the drayage carrier picks one up when collecting the container. Some motor carriers own their own chassis, and in some markets ocean carriers still supply them. The provider charges a daily usage fee, which is usually passed through to the shipper or consignee. Ask your drayage carrier how chassis are sourced and billed.
Is a chassis charge the same as demurrage?
No. A chassis charge pays for use of the wheeled frame and is billed by the chassis provider or the trucker. Demurrage is charged by the terminal or ocean carrier when a container stays at the terminal past its free time. Per diem or detention covers keeping the container itself outside the terminal too long. One slow unload can trigger chassis and container charges at the same time.