Shielding Valuables from Winter’s Wrath

As the we get into the second half of the year and as the winter season creeps closer, it brings with it a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to storage. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to safeguard your seasonal belongings or a business owner in need of reliable storage solutions, the importance of storage trailers and container pods during winter cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we will explore the key reasons why these mobile storage solutions are indispensable during the cold months, highlighting their benefits and practical applications.

  1. Shielding Valuables from Winter’s Wrath: When winter unleashes its fury with snowstorms and icy temperatures, your precious possessions deserve more than just a mere storage space. Embrace the protective embrace of storage trailers and containers that brave the harshest weather conditions, becoming your fortress against the relentless onslaught of snow, rain, and frost.
  2. Embracing the Warmth of Preservation: Within the icy grip of winter, delicate items such as cherished artwork, antique treasures, and sensitive electronics seek refuge from the freezing cold. Nurture their well-being by entrusting them to storage trailers and containers equipped with the power of climate control. Feel the assurance that your cherished belongings are cocooned in a haven of warmth and insulation, safeguarding their beauty and functionality.
  3. Empowering Businesses with Efficient Winter Inventory Management: As winter envelopes the world in its snowy embrace, businesses experience a surge in inventory demands during the holiday season. Unleash the potential of your business by embracing the extension of storage trailers and containers. These versatile storage allies seamlessly accommodate the influx of goods, ensuring your inventory management remains impeccable even in the face of winter’s logistical challenges.
  4. Unleashing Customizable Storage Magic: Embrace the realm of infinite possibilities as storage trailers and containers shape-shift to match your unique storage needs. These transformative storage solutions effortlessly adapt to your requirements, molding themselves to your whims. Whether you seek temporary or long-term expansion, these enchanting storage options dance to the rhythm of your desires, appearing at your doorstep in the perfect size and configuration.
  5. Peace of Mind through Fortified Security: Winter casts its shadow upon the land, cloaking it in darkness and creating an opportune environment for mischief and theft. Stand tall against the encroaching darkness and fortify your storage with the impenetrable strength of storage trailers and containers. With their unyielding locks, fortress-like construction, and the option for additional security measures like watchful surveillance cameras and vigilant alarms, rest assured that your treasures find sanctuary within an impregnable stronghold.

As winter poses unique challenges to storage needs, investing in storage trailers and containers proves to be a wise choice. Their ability to protect against harsh weather, preserve temperature-sensitive items, facilitate efficient inventory management, and provide flexible storage options cannot be overstated. Whether for personal or business use, these storage solutions offer a reliable and secure refuge for your belongings, ensuring they remain in optimal condition throughout the winter season. Consider partnering with a trusted storage provider like Express Mobile Storage Solutions to meet your winter storage needs, and experience the convenience and peace of mind that these versatile solutions offer.

Streamline Your Storage Needs with Express Mobile Storage Solutions

In the fast-paced world of business, efficient storage solutions are essential for maintaining an organized and productive environment. Whether you are a growing startup or an established company, finding the right storage solution that meets your unique needs can be a game-changer. That’s where Express Mobile Storage Solutions comes in. With their expertise in storage trailers and shipping container rentals, Express Mobile Storage Solutions offers innovative and flexible storage options that can revolutionize the way you handle your belongings. In this article, we will explore the benefits of partnering with Express Mobile Storage Solutions and how their services can cater to your specific storage requirements.

storage trailer rental in Toronto

Tailored Storage Solutions for Every Need Express Mobile Storage Solutions understands that each business has unique storage needs. That’s why they offer a range of customizable storage solutions to meet your requirements. Whether you need short-term storage during a renovation project or long-term storage for excess inventory, Express Mobile Storage Solutions has you covered. Their team of experts will work closely with you to determine the right container size and specifications, ensuring your belongings are stored safely and efficiently.

Convenience and Flexibility with Mobile Storage One of the standout features of Express Mobile Storage Solutions is their mobile storage concept. With their fleet of trailers and containers, they bring the storage solution to your doorstep. Instead of dealing with the hassle of transporting your belongings to a remote storage facility, Express Mobile Storage Solutions eliminates the need for multiple trips. You can conveniently load and unload your items at your own pace, saving time and effort. This flexibility allows you to focus on what matters most—growing your business.

Shipping storage container rental

Secure and Well-Maintained Containers When it comes to storing your valuable belongings, security is of utmost importance. Express Mobile Storage Solutions ensures the safety and protection of your items by providing high-quality, secure containers. Their containers are constructed with durable materials that can withstand various weather conditions, safeguarding your belongings from moisture, pests, and theft. Additionally, Express Mobile Storage Solutions maintains their containers regularly, ensuring they are clean and in optimal condition for your storage needs.

Cost-Effective Storage Solutions Express Mobile Storage Solutions understands that budget is a significant consideration for businesses. That’s why they offer cost-effective storage solutions without compromising on quality. By choosing mobile storage, you eliminate the need for additional transportation costs. Express Mobile Storage Solutions provides transparent pricing and flexible rental options, allowing you to optimize your storage expenses. Their competitive rates and customized packages ensure you get the most value for your investment.

Outstanding Customer Service At Express Mobile Storage Solutions, customer satisfaction is a top priority. Their dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing excellent service and support throughout your storage journey. From initial consultation to delivery and pickup, you can expect responsive communication and prompt assistance. Express Mobile Storage Solutions takes pride in building long-term relationships with their clients, making your storage experience seamless and stress-free.

When it comes to efficient and hassle-free storage solutions, Express Mobile Storage Solutions stands out as a reliable partner. With their tailored storage options, convenient mobile concept, secure containers, cost-effective pricing, and exceptional customer service, they are well-equipped to handle your storage needs. Say goodbye to traditional storage hassles and embrace the convenience and flexibility that Express Mobile Storage Solutions brings to the table. Visit their website today and discover how they can revolutionize your storage experience with their innovative trailers and containers.

Simplify Transportation and Storage with Trailers and Shipping Containers

In today’s fast-paced world, efficient transportation and storage play a crucial role in the success of businesses across various industries. The need for reliable and flexible solutions has never been greater. That’s where Express Mobile Storage Solutions Mobile Storage and our expertise comes in. As a leading company specializing in rental trailers and storage containers, Express Mobile Storage Solutions offers a comprehensive range of services that can effectively address transportation and storage challenges. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Express Mobile Storage Solutions is the ideal partner for businesses seeking efficient and scalable solutions.

Express Mobile Storage Solutions has established itself as a trusted name in the industry, with over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of providing top-notch trailer and container solutions. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and attention to detail set us apart from the competition. Whether you require transportation services for goods or need secure storage solutions, Express Mobile Storage Solutions has got you covered.

One of the key advantages of partnering with Express Mobile Storage Solutions is the extensive range of trailers and containers we offer. Our fleet includes a wide variety of options, including dry van trailers, refrigerated containers, flatbed trailers, and more. This diverse selection ensures that they can cater to the specific needs of businesses across various industries, regardless of the size or nature of their cargo.

Express Mobile Storage Solutions understands that businesses have unique requirements when it comes to transportation and storage. We offer scalable solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you’re a small startup or a large corporation, Express Mobile Storage Solutions has the flexibility and expertise to handle your transportation and storage needs efficiently. This scalability ensures that you only pay for the services you require, allowing you to optimize your budget.

When it comes to transportation and storage, safety and security are of paramount importance. Express Mobile Storage Solutions prioritizes the well-being of your goods by implementing stringent safety measures and utilizing advanced tracking technologies. Our trailers and containers are well-maintained and regularly inspected to ensure optimal performance and minimize the risk of damage or loss during transit. You can have peace of mind knowing that your cargo is in capable hands.

Express Mobile Storage Solutions takes pride in its customer-centric approach, striving to exceed client expectations at every turn. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing personalized and responsive service, ensuring smooth communication and timely deliveries. Moreover, Express Mobile Storage Solutions offers competitive pricing without compromising on quality. We understand the importance of cost-effectiveness for businesses and work closely with clients to find solutions that align with their budget.

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, finding a reliable partner to solve transportation and storage problems is crucial. Express Mobile Storage Solutions, with our extensive experience, diverse fleet, scalable solutions, emphasis on safety and security, customer-centric approach, and competitive pricing, emerges as the ideal choice. Whether you need to transport goods across long distances or require secure storage facilities, Express Mobile Storage Solutions stands ready to streamline your operations and help your business thrive. Don’t let transportation and storage challenges hold you back—partner with Express Mobile Storage Solutions today and experience the convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind they bring to the table.

Truck & Trailer Parking

Trailer and truck parking is a crucial aspect of the transportation industry, and finding a reliable and secure parking solution can be a challenge. This is where a trusted company like Express Mobile Storage Solutions can make all the difference.

Firstly, using a trusted company like Express Mobile Storage Solutions for trailer and truck parking provides peace of mind that your vehicles are safe and secure. Their parking facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art security systems, including 24/7 monitoring and surveillance, to ensure that your vehicles are protected from theft, vandalism, and other potential threats.

Secondly, parking with Express Mobile Storage Solutions provides convenient access to your vehicles. Their facilities are strategically located, making it easy for you to pick up and drop off your vehicles when needed. With ground level and dock level storage options, as well as portable storage units that can be delivered to your location, Express Mobile Storage Solutions offers flexible and customizable solutions to meet your specific needs.

Thirdly, using a trusted company like Express Mobile Storage Solutions for trailer and truck parking saves you time and money. Rather than spending valuable time and resources searching for a safe and convenient parking location, you can rely on Express Mobile Storage Solutions to provide a reliable and cost-effective solution. With their expert team of transport specialists, they can also provide transport services to move your vehicles to different locations, saving you time and hassle.

Lastly, choosing a trusted company like Express Mobile Storage Solutions for trailer and truck parking means that you are working with a company that has a proven track record of providing high-quality services to their clients. With decades of experience in the transportation industry, Express Mobile Storage Solutions has built a reputation for excellence and is committed to providing their clients with the best possible experience.

Trailer and truck parking is a crucial aspect of the transportation industry, and using a trusted company like Express Mobile Storage Solutions can provide peace of mind, convenience, cost-effectiveness, and a proven track record of excellence. By choosing Express Mobile Storage Solutions for your parking needs, you can rest assured that your vehicles are safe and secure, and that you are working with a company that has your best interests in mind.

Transport Trailers – Types

Transport trailers, also known as semi-trailers, are an essential part of the transportation industry. They are typically used to transport large quantities of goods, materials, or equipment over long distances but save money & provide flexibility as when used as storage trailers. In this article, we will discuss what transport trailers are, how they work, and what they are good for.

What are Transport Trailers?

A transport trailer is a large, wheeled vehicle that is designed to be towed by a truck or tractor. The most common is a 53 foot trailer and can carry up to 80,000 pounds of cargo. Transport trailers are typically made of steel or aluminum and feature a box-shaped cargo container that is mounted on a chassis. The container is designed to be easily loaded and unloaded using a forklift or other equipment.

How do Transport Trailers Work?

Transport trailers are typically designed to be towed by a tractor or truck with a fifth-wheel hitch. The hitch is located on the rear of the tractor and connects to the kingpin on the front of the trailer. The trailer is supported by two or more axles, which are mounted on the chassis. The axles feature a suspension system that helps to absorb shocks and vibrations during transport.

Transport trailers are also equipped with brakes and lights, which are controlled by the driver of the towing vehicle. The driver must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate a transport trailer, as they require specialized training and skills.

What are Transport Trailers Good For?

Transport trailers are ideal for transporting large quantities of goods or equipment over long distances. They are commonly used in the shipping industry to transport goods from one location to another. They are also used in the construction industry to transport heavy equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes.

Transport trailers are also used in the retail industry to transport goods from distribution centers to retail stores. They are often used to transport products such as clothing, electronics, and household goods. Additionally, transport trailers are used in the food industry to transport perishable items, such as fruits, vegetables, and meat products.

There are several different types of transport trailers available, each designed to meet specific transportation or mobile storage needs.

What are Transport Trailers Types?

  • Dry Van Trailers – Also known as box trailers, dry van trailers are enclosed containers that are used to transport a wide range of dry goods, such as clothing, electronics, and household items.
  • Flatbed Trailers – Flatbed trailers feature an open, flat platform with no sides or roof, making them ideal for transporting oversized or irregularly-shaped items, such as construction equipment, vehicles, and large machinery.
  • Refrigerated Trailers – Refrigerated trailers, also known as reefers, are temperature-controlled containers that are used to transport perishable goods, such as fruits, vegetables, and meat products. These trailers are equipped with refrigeration units that maintain a constant temperature inside the container.
  • Lowboy Trailers – Lowboy trailers are designed for transporting oversized or overweight items, such as large machinery, construction equipment, and vehicles. They feature a low platform and a lower center of gravity, making them ideal for carrying heavy loads.
  • Tank Trailers – Tank trailers are used to transport liquids, such as gasoline, oil, and chemicals. They are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel and are designed to safely transport hazardous materials.
  • Dump Trailers – Dump trailers are designed to transport loose materials, such as sand, gravel, and construction debris. They feature an open container that can be raised and tilted to dump the contents onto the ground.
  • Livestock Trailers – Livestock trailers are used to transport livestock, such as cattle, horses, and pigs. They are typically made of steel and feature multiple compartments to separate the animals during transport.

Each type of transport trailer is designed to meet specific transportation needs, and choosing the right trailer for storage or your transportation needs is essential for ensuring that your goods or materials are transported safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

Transport trailers are an essential part of the transportation industry, allowing goods and materials to be transported efficiently over long distances. They are versatile, durable, and can carry a wide range of goods and equipment. Whether you are in the shipping, construction, retail, or food industry, transport trailers are an excellent option for storage or transporting your goods and materials.

Semi-Trailer Truck Configurations

In North America, the combination vehicles made up of a powered truck and one or more semitrailers are known as “semis”, “semitrailers”, “tractor-trailers”, “big rigs”, “semi trucks”, “eighteen-wheelers”, or “semi-tractor trailers”.

The tractor unit typically has two or three axles; those built for hauling heavy-duty commercial-construction machinery may have as many as five, some often being lift axles.

The most common tractor-cab layout has a forward engine, one steering axle, and two drive axles. The fifth-wheel trailer coupling on most tractor trucks is movable fore and aft, to allow adjustment in the weight distribution over its rear axle(s).

Ubiquitous in Europe, but less common in North America since the 1990s, is the cabover engine configuration, where the driver sits next to, or over the engine. With changes in the US to the maximum length of the combined vehicle, the cabover was largely phased out of North American over-the-road (long-haul) service by 2007. Cabovers were difficult to service, as the cab could not be lifted on its hinges to a full 90-degree forward tilt, severely limiting access to the front part of the engine.

As of 2016, a truck can cost $100,000, while the diesel cost can be $70,000 per year. Trucks average from 4 to 8 miles per US gallon (59 to 29 L/100 km), with fuel economy standards requiring better than 7 miles per US gallon (34 L/100 km) efficiency by 2014. Power requirements in standard conditions are 170 hp at 55 mph (89 km/h) or 280 hp at 70 mph (113 km/h), and somewhat different power usage in other conditions.
Rocky Mountain Double
STAA double pup 28.5-foot trailers

The cargo trailer usually has tandem axles at the rear, each of which has dual wheels, or eight tires on the trailer, four per axle. In the US it is common to refer to the number of wheel hubs, rather than the number of tires; an axle can have either single or dual tires with no legal difference. The combination of eight tires on the trailer and ten tires on the tractor is what led to the moniker eighteen wheeler, although this term is considered by some truckers to be a misnomer (the term “eighteen-wheeler” is a nickname for a five-axle over-the-road combination). Many trailers are equipped with movable tandem axles to allow adjusting the weight distribution.

To connect the second of a set of doubles to the first trailer, and to support the front half of the second trailer, a converter gear known as a “dolly” is used. This has one or two axles, a fifth-wheel coupling for the rear trailer, and a tongue with a ring-hitch coupling for the forward trailer. Individual states may further allow longer vehicles, known as “longer combination vehicles” (or LCVs), and may allow them to operate on roads other than Interstates.

Long combination vehicle types include:

  1. Doubles (officially “STAA doubles”, known colloquially as “a set of joints”): Two 28.5 ft (8.7 m) trailers.
  2. Triples: Three 28.5 ft (8.7 m) trailers.
  3. Turnpike Doubles: Two 48 ft (14.6 m) trailers.
  4. Rocky Mountain Doubles: One 40 to 53 ft (12.2 to 16.2 m) trailer (though usually no more than 48 ft (14.6 m)) and one 28.5 ft (8.7 m) trailer (known as a “pup”).
  5. In Canada, a Turnpike Double is two 53 ft (16.2 m) trailers, and a Rocky Mountain Double is a 50 ft (15.2 m) trailer with a 24 ft (7.3 m) “pup”.

Future long combination vehicles under consideration and study for the U.S. MAP-21 transportation bill are container doubles. These combinations are under study for potential recommendation in November 2014:

  1. 40 ft (12 m) trailer Turnpike Doubles, 148,000 lb (67,000 kg) GVWR
  2. 40 ft (12 m) and 20 ft (6.1 m) trailer Rocky Mountain Doubles, 134,000 lb (61,000 kg) GVWR
  3. Double 20 ft (6.1 m) trailers.

The US federal government, which only regulates the Interstate Highway System, does not set maximum length requirements (except on auto and boat transporters), only minimums. Tractors can pull two or three trailers if the combination is legal in that state. Weight maximums are 20,000 lb (9,100 kg) on a single axle, 34,000 lb (15,000 kg) on a tandem, and 80,000 lb (36,000 kg) total for any vehicle or combination. There is a maximum width of 8.5 ft (2.6 m) and no maximum height.

Roads other than the Interstates are regulated by the individual states, and laws vary widely. Maximum weight varies between 80,000 lb (36,000 kg) to 171,000 lb (78,000 kg), depending on the combination. Most states restrict operation of larger tandem trailer setups such as triple units, turnpike doubles and Rocky-Mountain doubles. Reasons for limiting the legal trailer configurations include both safety concerns and the impracticality of designing and constructing roads that can accommodate the larger wheelbase of these vehicles and the larger minimum turning radii associated with them. In general, these configurations are restricted to the Interstates. Except for these units, double setups are not restricted to certain roads any more than a single setup. They are also not restricted by weather conditions or “difficulty of operation”. The Canadian province of Ontario, however, does have weather-related operating restrictions for larger tandem trailer setups.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semi-trailer_truck

Tank Chassis

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tank_chassis

Tank container chassis, also referred to as tank chassis, drop frame chassis or tank trailers, are a form of intermodal transportation for portable bulk liquid containers or ISO tank containers. They are characteristically longer and have lower deck height ideal for transporting constantly shifting payloads. The invention of the tank container revolutionized the way bulk liquids were transported, stored, and handled worldwide. It has improved safety, reduced costs and brought with it the benefits of convenience and efficiency associated with a multi-modal transport system. Invariably the invention of the drop frame chassis followed soon after to accommodate this new type of intermodal container.

Description

Though in the USA tank containers are typically the same dimensions (20′ x 8′ x 8.5′. as a standard ISO ocean container, tank chassis are much longer than the typical 20′ container chassis. Tank chassis typically measure 40′-43′ in length by 8′ wide x 4′ tall. This chassis has a standard drop-frame design providing a lower center of gravity than conventional trailers and an overall length suitable to legally scale most tanks. Twistlocks provide a secure mounting mechanism for the tanks and eliminate the need for straps or chains. The lower center of gravity is crucial for reducing the chances of a roll over with the constant shifting weight of the liquid cargo. These chassis can also be fitted with additional accessories including: lift kits to facilitate product discharge, hose tubes, and hi/lo kits to carry two empty tanks.

Tank chassis types

The tank chassis has evolved over the past years to accommodate greater payload weights. The tank chassis comes in tandem axle, spread axle, tri-axle, and hi/lo combo configurations. Tandem Axle Chassis were the industry standard initially. The closed tandem drop deck chassis typically have a GVWR of 65,000 lbs. The quest to increase payload capacities spawned the tri-axle chassis with the ability to scale 42,000 lbs. on the trailer axles. The addition of the third axle however added a significant increase to the tare weight of the chassis, thus limiting the permissible weight limits to comply with bridge laws. This led to the invention of the Spread Axle Chassis with a spread of 109″ allowing for the same weight to be dispersed on the rear axles of the trailer (42,000 lbs.)as the tri-axle. This is the new industry standard with a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of 80,000 lbs.

Semi-Trailer

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semi-trailer

A semi-trailer is a trailer without a front axle. A large proportion of its weight is supported by a road tractor, by a detachable front axle assembly known as a dolly, or by the tail of another trailer. A semi-trailer is normally equipped with landing gear (legs which can be lowered) to support it when it is uncoupled.

A road tractor coupled to a semi-trailer is often called a semi-trailer truck or semi, or in the UK an articulated lorry.

In Australian English, the tractor unit is usually referred to as a prime-mover; and the combination of a prime-mover and trailer is known as a semi-trailer or semi. Semi-trailers with two trailer units are B-Doubles or road trains. A B-double consists of a prime mover towing two semi-trailers, where the first semi-trailer is connected to the prime mover by a fifth wheel coupling and the second semi-trailer is connected to the first semi-trailer by a fifth wheel coupling. A road train means a combination, other than a B-Double, consisting of a motor vehicle towing at least two trailers (counting as a single trailer a converter dolly supporting a semi-trailer).

Semi-Trailer Types

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semi-trailer

Different types of semi-trailers are designed to haul different cargoes.

Common widths are 8 feet (2.44 m), and 2.6 metres (8 ft 6.4 in).

Box
The most common type of trailer. Also called a van trailer.
Standard lengths in North America are 28 ft 0 in (8.53 m), 32 ft 0 in (9.75 m), 34 ft 0 in (10.36 m), 36 ft 0 in (10.97 m), 40 ft 0 in (12.19 m), 45 ft 0 in (13.72 m), 48 ft 0 in (14.63 m) and 53 ft 0 in (16.15 m).

Bus
A bus bodied trailer hitched to a tractor unit to form a trailer bus, a simple alternative to building a rigid bus.

Car-carrying trailer
Carries multiple cars; usually new cars from the manufacturer. In the U.S., car carriers often carry used vehicles, as well.

Curtain sider
A curtain sider is similar to a box trailer except that the sides are movable curtains made of reinforced fabric coated with a waterproof coating. The purpose of a curtain sider is to allow the security and weather resistance of a box trailer with the ease of loading of a flatbed.

Drop-deck trailer
A drop-deck trailer is a trailer on which the floor drops down a level once clear of the tractor unit; the most common types of drop-deck trailer are flatbeds and curtain siders.

Double decker
Double deckers or deckers are trailers with either a fixed, hinged or moveable second floor to enable them to carry more palletised goods. In general a double decker can carry 40 pallets, as opposed to 26 for a standard trailer. Double deck trailers are generally a stepped box or curtain siders, with box trailers having either a fixed or movable (floating) deck, and curtain sides having either a fixed or hinged second deck; this hinged second deck generally swings into a position down the length of the trailer, and can be divided into 2 or 3 sections to allow greater load flexibility.

Dry Bulk
Resembles a big tanker, but is used for sugar, flour, and other dry powder materials.

Flatbed
Consists of just a load floor and removable side rails and a bulkhead in front to protect the tractor in the event of a load shift. Can haul almost anything that can be stacked on and strapped down.

Lowboy
Type of flatbed in which the load floor is as close to the ground as possible. Most commonly used to haul heavy equipment, cranes, bulldozers, etc.

Reefer – see Refrigerator truck
Box trailer with a heating/cooling unit (reefer) attached. Used for hauling produce, ice cream, etc.

Sidelifter
Semi-trailer with hydraulic cranes mounted at both ends of the chassis allowing for the loading and unloading of shipping containers without the need of a forklift or other container handling equipment.

Tanker – see Tank truck
Used for hauling liquids such as gasoline, milk, orange juice, and alcohol.

Frac
A type of tank trailer with a single and fixed axle, typically used during hydraulic fracturing at oil wells.

Intermodal freight use

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flatcar#Intermodal_freight_use

COFC (container on flat car) cars are typically 89 feet (27.13 m) long and carry four 20-foot (6.10 m) intermodal containers or two 40-foot (12.19 m)/45-foot (13.72 m) shipping containers (the two 45-foot / 13.72 m containers are carryable due to the fact that the car is actually 92 ft (28.04 m) long, using the strike plates). With the rise of intermodal freight transport-specific cars, and given the age of most of these flats, numbers will decline over the next several years. Indeed, when the first well cars appeared, allowing double stacking, many container flats were re-built as autoracks. The few “new build” container flats are identifiable by their lack of decking, welded steel frame, and standard 89-foot length. One variant is the 50 feet (15.24 m) car (which usually carries one large container as a load); these are actually re-built old boxcars. Common reporting marks are FEC, CP, SOO and KTTX. The ATTX cars, which feature no spark grips and sides, are built for hauling dangerous goods (ammunition, flammable fluids, etc.).
Kansas City Southern Railway #8985, a flatcar seen in this May 29, 2004, photo, is fitted with fifth wheel coupling hitches for hauling trailers.

A TOFC (trailer on flat car, a.k.a. piggy-back) car once again, is usually an 89 ft car. In the past, these carried three 30 ft (9.14 m) trailers which are, as of 2007, almost obsolete, or one large, 53 ft (16.15 m), two 40-foot (12.19 m) or 45-foot (13.72 m) trailers. As intermodal traffic grows, these dedicated flats are in decline. Most have been modified to also carry containers. One notable type is Canadian Pacific Railway’s XTRX service — dedicated five-unit flats that only carry trailers.