Container spreader FAQ

Our core business is standard container spreaders, alongside the design, development and manufacture of custom-built (non-standard) spreaders. Grouped by function and application, the range covers:

• Telescopic spreaders – a telescoping beam lets the spreader switch between container lengths, for operations handling mixed box sizes with frequent changeovers.
• Fixed-length spreaders – purpose-built for a single container size; simple structure and low deadweight, for terminals and rail yards handling one regular box type.
• Rotating spreaders – allow rotation with the container for easier alignment with trucks and stacking positions, reducing auxiliary handling time.
• Semi-automatic spreaders – a configuration between manual and fully automatic operation, for moderate throughput where efficiency and cost are balanced.
• Twin-lift spreaders – handle two containers of the same size in one lifting cycle, raising per-cycle productivity.
• Overheight frames – for host cranes with limited lifting height or where additional operating height is required.
• Lifting hooks and beams – attachments for general cargo and special handling conditions.

Beyond these categories we deliver complete lifting solutions based on container types, loads, site constraints and host machine conditions. Specific models, rated capacities and technical parameters are subject to our current product documentation.

Yes. Custom engineering is one of our core activities, with in-house capability covering the chain from feasibility study to delivery of the finished spreader.

Host machine conditions we confirm before customization:

• Type of host crane, rated capacity and lifting height;
• Connection between spreader and crane (hook-type, headblock-mounted or direct connection) and the relevant interface dimensions;
• Allowable spreader deadweight (the remaining capacity margin of the host crane);
• Power supply method, voltage level and electrical control interfaces;
• Operating environment (indoor or outdoor, coastal salt spray, minimum ambient temperature, dust conditions).

Process: collection of operating data or on-site survey → scheme design and structural strength verification → 3D renderings and drawings → mutual confirmation of the technical specification → manufacturing with in-process inspection → delivery with on-site training.

Typical customization covers spreaders for special container types, slewing, skew and tilting functions, overheight operation, and structural adaptation during the refurbishment or overhaul of existing spreaders.

Where a proposed duty is not feasible in terms of safe load or structural design, we will say so and propose adjustments rather than accept the order unconditionally.

The more complete the data, the closer the quotation will be to the final solution and the less time is spent on technical clarification.

1. Host crane: crane type (quayside, RTG/RMG, portal, gantry, reach stacker), rated capacity, lifting height, spreader connection method, power supply and voltage, whether an electrical communication interface is provided.
2. Container types and sizes: 20 ft / 40 ft / 45 ft, whether multi-lift is required, whether non-standard or special containers are involved.
3. Load requirements: rated capacity of the spreader, whether lifting is done with the container attached, permissible eccentric load.
4. Operating conditions: indoor or outdoor, coastal salt spray, minimum ambient temperature, average daily container volume or operating frequency.
5. Functional requirements: semi-automatic or fully automatic, telescopic, rotating, skew, flippers, weighing or camera assistance.
6. Commercial details: quantity, place of delivery, required delivery date, and whether the order is for export together with the destination country or region.
7. Project requirements: applicable standards and codes, and whether the quotation must support a technical evaluation or tendering procedure.

If site data is not complete, our engineers can assist in capturing it. On-site condition surveys and scheme design are provided free of charge.

Our standard range covers 20 ft and 40 ft ISO containers. Telescopic models switch between lengths within this range, while fixed-length models are designed and built for one specific size.

45 ft containers, other container sizes, and non-standard or special containers need to be verified against the actual structural dimensions and rated load of the box. Please inform our engineers in advance so this can be assessed.

Whether a given container size can be handled depends on two conditions: the technical parameters of the selected spreader model and the rated capacity of the host crane. The agreed technical proposal is the governing document.

We apply full-process control from the design stage to final inspection. The principal measures are:

1. Design: structural design to applicable international and national standards, with strength verification; special operating conditions are assessed during the proposal stage.
2. Materials: main structures from high-quality high-strength alloy steel; electrical components and control systems from well-known domestic and international brands.
3. Process control: production strictly to design drawings and process specifications, with incoming material inspection, in-process inspection at critical operations, functional and performance testing, and final inspection before despatch.
4. Safety design: twistlocks with self-locking characteristics and interlock protection to prevent hoisting before full locking is achieved, together with multi-point load-bearing protection.
5. Delivery: engineers provide on-site training covering operation, safety rules, routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
6. After-sales: 7x24 technical response; repair or replacement for genuine quality defects within the warranty period, with preferential maintenance and spare parts pricing thereafter.

Company qualifications, patents, third-party test reports and factory inspection records are available in electronic form on request, in line with project requirements.

For standard spreaders, delivery is typically around 30 days after the technical and commercial terms are confirmed. The delivery period can be fixed before contract signature according to the order size, and batch orders can be scheduled with agreed delivery milestones.

Custom-built products go through scheme design, verification and process preparation, so lead times are generally longer and are governed by the schedule confirmed in the technical agreement.

The table gives net process times. Real lead times also include production queue time, technical review and coordination in batch production, which is why standard orders are quoted at approximately 30 days. Lead times are affected by design complexity, degree of customization, order quantity, procurement lead times for bought-out and imported components, and shipping distance. The contract is the governing document.

Yes. Depending on the project stage and purpose, we provide the following documents:

• Proposal stage: preliminary general arrangement drawing, outline dimension drawing, strength analysis notes and indicative drawings as applicable.
• After contract signature: formal assembly drawing, installation interface drawings, electrical schematic and wiring diagrams, hydraulic schematic where applicable, lifting point layout drawing.
• On delivery: certificate of conformity, factory inspection report, packing list, spare parts list, operation and maintenance manuals covering operation, safety precautions, routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting.
• Tenders and export projects: technical specifications, technical proposals, packing and customs documentation on request; English technical documentation for overseas projects.

The documentation scope for export projects is confirmed against the regulations of the destination country or region and the owner's tender requirements. Complete drawings and technical documents are issued after the contract takes effect; proposal-stage drawings are for technical review only.