Efficient solutions for multi-modal transport

September 2022 – Multi-modal transport for general cargo transport tasks is becoming increasingly important within Europe as a result of rising traffic density on the roads, the associated carbon dioxide emissions, and demand from many shippers for sustainable logistics. Fast swapping between road and rail, the safety of the freight and the flexibility of the trailers needed for this place stringent demands on vehicle producers.

Thanks to its proven modular system, Schmitz Cargobull provides optimum trailer solutions and equipment for multi-modal transport, which is not limited to S.KO box semi-trailers, S.BO dry freighters and S.CS curtainsider semi-trailers. As an extension of its product portfolio, Schmitz Cargobull has, after several years, also reintroduced the A.WF and Z.WF swap chassis for the transport of short swap containers, as well as a brand-new W.BO swap box, for an effective multi-modal solution.

The trailers for swap body operations have a large range of ground clearances, making them especially adaptable, and they are distinguished by their simple and sturdy design. Optimally equipped to facilitate the rough swap operations, they enable economical handling of swap containers. The chassis are available in a proven hot-dip galvanised design.

With its robust two-axle steel chassis and locks for 1 x 20’ containers, the A.WF trailer swap chassis provides the optimum equipment for securing and supporting swap containers. To flexibly transport interchangeable modules and containers, it has been optimally adapted to the demands of multi-modal transport.

The Z.WF central axle swap chassis is also designed to flexibly transport interchangeable modules and containers. Designed and tested for every type of transport task with a payload of approximately 14.5 t, both chassis are suitable for transporting containers and swap bodies with standardised ISO container mountings (20’).

The hot-dip galvanised chassis is resistant to corrosion and offers optimum protection against rust-through. A ten-year warranty against rust-through applies to all galvanised parts in the chassis. This contributes to the value retention of the chassis, which is clearly reflected in the resale value. Galvanising offers optimum surface protection for commercial vehicles, as the conventional mechanical stresses of everyday transport do not leave any permanent impact.

Schmitz Cargobull’s product range also includes the W.BO swap box as a solution for multi-modal transport. Instead of losing time during loading and unloading, swap containers can be set down and immediately replaced by another swap container ready for further transport. In addition to saving time, this helps the transport vehicle to be used more efficiently. Furthermore, the driving times per driver are reduced and empty runs are avoided.

The Schmitz Cargobull W.BO swap box for dry freight transport is a swap box in a steel design with a wide range of equipment options, such as a double-decker system, roller door or standard keyhole system. Schmitz Cargobull offers three different swap box models, which are designed to handle a wide range of transport tasks. They are available in steel with a length of 7.45 m and either smooth or beaded walls, and with a length of 7.82 m and smooth walls.

The swap chassis are developed, designed and produced by Schmitz Cargobull at its site in Michalovce, Slovakia. The new W.BO swap boxes in Schmitz Cargobull’s product range are produced by the cooperation partner and body specialist Kerex in Michalovce.