Introduction to Container Flatbed Semi Trailer & Common Shipping Methods

As infrastructure construction, logistics transportation, and international trade continue to grow across Africa, container flatbed semi trailers have become one of the most widely used trailer types in the market due to their simple structure, high load capacity, and wide applicability.

As a professional Chinese export company specializing in semi trailers, trucks, and construction machinery, we have long supplied cost-effective and durable container transport solutions to many African countries, supported by extensive experience in product design and shipping arrangements.

1. Product Overview & Structural Details

Container flatbed semi trailers are mainly designed for transporting standard 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft high cube containers, and are widely used in port transportation, long-distance logistics, mining areas, and industrial zones.

Considering Africa’s complex road conditions, long transport distances, and limited maintenance facilities, our trailers are specially reinforced in terms of main beam structure, suspension system, and key load-bearing components to ensure long-term reliability under heavy-duty operation.

1）Main Beam Structure

The main beam is the core load-bearing component of the trailer and directly determines its strength and service life.

Our container flatbed trailers commonly use Q355 or T700 high-strength steel for the main beam, formed by automatic submerged arc welding. The optimized cross-section ensures uniform stress distribution and excellent fatigue resistance.

2）Flatbed & Twist Locks

The flatbed is made of welded high-strength steel plates, offering excellent rigidity and flatness for long-term heavy-duty use.

The trailer is equipped with standard twist locks, available in configurations of 4, 8, or 12 units to suit various container sizes.

3）Suspension System

The suspension system plays a critical role in load capacity and driving stability.

Our flatbed trailers are commonly equipped with reinforced mechanical suspension systems, which are strong, simple, and ideal for African road conditions. Air suspension is also available upon request.

4）Axles & Tires

According to customer requirements, trailers can be equipped with internationally recognized axle brands such as FUWA and BPW, ensuring long-term stability and safety.

Common tire options include Triangle, Linglong, and Chaoyang, known for strong wear resistance and suitability for high-temperature and harsh road conditions.

5）Landing Gear

Landing gear is essential for loading, unloading, and parking operations.

We usually equip JOST or equivalent heavy-duty landing gear, offering high load capacity and reliable operation.

6）Other Key Structural & Functional Details

Under long-term heavy-duty operation and complex road conditions, structural and functional details play an equally important role in overall reliability and service life.

During manufacturing, our container flatbed semi trailers are optimized in several key details to ensure reliable performance in real African operating conditions.

2. Common Shipping Methods for Container Flatbed Semi Trailers

Choosing the right shipping method is crucial for reducing total logistics costs during export.

1）Two Units in Containers

Two flatbed trailers can be loaded into 40HQ or 40FT containers after partial disassembly.

2）Two Units Break Bulk

Two units are secured and shipped by bulk ship.

3）Three Units Break Bulk

When conditions allow, three units can be shipped together to significantly reduce cost per unit.

3. Conclusion

Container flatbed semi trailers have broad application prospects in Africa, and the right combination of product design and shipping method directly affects return on investment.

We remain committed to providing reliable products, optimized configurations, and competitive overall cost solutions.