Trailer service is the backbone of container logistics in China. Through operating our own fleet of container trailers serving Shenzhen's Yantian and Shekou terminals daily, we have firsthand experience with the operational realities of container transportation.
This guide covers the practical aspects of booking and managing container trailer services at Chinese ports.
When You Need Trailer Service
| Scenario | Description | Typical Route |
| Pre-carriage (export) | Moving empty container from port to factory | Port → Factory |
| Pre-carriage (export) | Moving loaded container from factory to port | Factory → Port |
| On-carriage (import) | Moving loaded container from port to warehouse | Port → Warehouse |
| Empty return | Returning empty container to depot | Warehouse → Depot |
| Domestic repositioning | Moving container between domestic locations | Port → Port or Warehouse |
How to Book Container Trailer Service
Process:
- Submit booking request to your freight forwarder with:
- Container number and size (20GP/40GP/40HQ)
- Pickup location and address
- Delivery location and address
- Preferred pickup date and time window
- Receive confirmation with driver details and estimated arrival time
- Container inspection at pickup — both driver and shipper inspect and sign the EIR
- Transportation with real-time GPS tracking
- Delivery and sign-off — recipient inspects, signs, and receives the container
Trailer Service Pricing Model
| Charge Item | Basis | Typical Amount |
| Basic transport fee | Per trip (origin to destination) | CNY 1,500–4,000 (short haul) |
| Waiting time | Per hour after 2 free hours | CNY 200–500/hour |
| Terminal waiting | Per hour at port terminal | CNY 300–600/hour |
| Night surcharge | Trips after 8 PM | +20–30% |
| Weekend/public holiday | Saturday/Sunday/holiday | +30–50% |
| Container wash | Per container after unloading | CNY 200–400 |
Chassis Types for Container Trailers
The chassis (the trailer frame that carries the container) is as important as the truck itself. Different chassis types suit different scenarios:
| Chassis Type | Container Fit | Best For |
| Standard 20ft chassis | 20GP only | Dedicated 20ft container movements |
| Standard 40ft chassis | 40GP / 40HQ | Dedicated 40ft container movements |
| Gooseneck chassis | 40ft (with gooseneck tunnel) | Reduces overall height by ~10cm — useful for 40HQ with height restrictions |
| Extendable chassis | 20ft or 40ft (adjustable) | Flexible fleet operations; one chassis handles both sizes |
| Tri-axle chassis | 20ft or 40ft (heavy loads) | Overweight containers; distributes weight across 3 axles |
Chassis specifications by container size
| Specification | 20ft Chassis | 40ft Chassis | Gooseneck Chassis |
| Chassis tare weight | 2,800-3,200 kg | 4,200-4,800 kg | 4,500-5,200 kg |
| Max container + cargo weight | 28,000 kg | 28,000 kg | 28,000 kg |
| Deck length | 6.1-6.5 m | 12.2-12.5 m | 12.2-12.5 m |
| Number of axles | 2 | 2-3 | 3 |
| Twist lock positions | 4 (20ft only) | 8 (20ft+40ft) | 8 (20ft+40ft) |
| Tire size (typical) | 12R22.5 | 12R22.5 | 12R22.5 |
Chassis availability: In China, chassis are typically provided by the trucking company, not the carrier. Most carriers do not provide chassis for container pickup — your trucking company must bring their own.
Routine vs emergency trailer booking: Most trucking happens on planned schedules (2-24 hours advance booking). For urgent loads (port demurrage situations), express booking with premium rates (+30-50%) is available from most providers.
Choosing a Trailer Service Provider
| Evaluation Point | What to Look For |
| Licensing | Valid port operator license (港口经营许可证) |
| GPS capability | Real-time tracking for all trucks |
| Driver experience | Minimum 3 years container driving experience |
| Fleet condition | Modern trucks (less than 5 years old preferred) |
| Insurance | Third-party liability + cargo insurance |
| Emergency support | 24/7 dispatch capability |
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a trailer service and container trucking?
A: They are essentially the same service — "trailer service" is more commonly used in Southeast Asia, while "container trucking" or "drayage" is more common in North America.
Q: How early should I book container trailer service?
A: At least 24–48 hours in advance. Last-minute bookings may incur premium rates.
Q: What happens if my cargo is not ready when the truck arrives?
A: Waiting time charges apply after the free period. Communicate with the trucking company as early as possible if delays occur.
Q: Can I track my container during trucking?
A: Most professional trucking companies provide GPS tracking. Request tracking capability when booking.
Need reliable container trailer service in China? Bofeng Logistics offers door-to-door container transportation at all major Chinese ports. Contact us for a quote.
Bofeng Logistics
Phone/WhatsApp: 13075678958
Email: info@zhbfwl.com
Contact us for a personalized shipping solution.
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