Cranable Curtain Trailer:
The Intermodal Standard

What Is a Cranable Trailer?

A cranable trailer (also called a crane-compatible or intermodal trailer) is a semi-trailer specifically designed to be lifted by a gantry crane or reach stacker at intermodal terminals. This allows the trailer — with its cargo intact — to be transferred between truck, train and RoRo ferry without unloading and reloading the goods.

The key feature is reinforced crane lifting points built into the trailer frame, allowing safe vertical lifting of a fully loaded trailer weighing up to 44 tonnes.

Effimodal's Cranable Curtain Trailers — Specifications

• Length: 13.6m · Width: 2.48m · Height: 2.70m
• Side access opening: 2.65m — full forklift access from both sides
• Maximum payload: 28 tonnes (44t total under EU Combined Transport Directive)
• Crane-compatible lifting points at four corners
• Curtain-sided for fast side loading and unloading
• All cargo securing equipment included: straps, edge protectors, anti-slip mats, distancing boards, pillows

How the Transfer Works at Terminal

At an intermodal terminal such as our hub in Lübeck, the process is:

• Truck arrives at terminal with loaded cranable trailer
• Gantry crane lifts the trailer by its four corner points
• Trailer is placed on a rail wagon or RoRo ferry deck
• At the destination terminal, the process is reversed
• Local truck picks up the trailer for final delivery

The entire crane transfer takes approximately 5–15 minutes per trailer. Cargo is never touched — the same securing remains from loading to final delivery.

Ideal Cargo for Cranable Trailers

The 28-tonne payload and full side access make cranable trailers ideal for heavy, dense cargo:

• Steel coils, profiles and metal products
• Timber logs and sawn lumber
• Paper rolls and cardboard reels
• Cement bags and construction materials
• Industrial machinery and equipment
• Beverages, drums and bottled goods

Haulier Requirements

To use our combined transport service as a road haulier (first/last mile), you need:

• A truck tractor capable of pulling a 44t combination
• Valid CMR insurance and international transport licence
• Familiarity with cranable trailer coupling and uncoupling
• Agreement with Effimodal's Code of Conduct and operational manual

Full operational requirements are outlined in our Manual for Intermodal Transportation of Cranable Trailers.