A Straddle Carrier Spreader is a container-lifting attachment installed on a straddle carrier for handling ISO shipping containers. It engages with container corner castings through twistlocks, forming a secure connection for lifting, transporting, stacking, and positioning containers during terminal and yard operations.
The spreader is a key component of a straddle carrier. Its performance directly affects handling efficiency, positioning accuracy, and operational safety. Modern designs include twistlock systems, container positioning functions, and adjustment mechanisms for different container sizes. It is widely used in ports, container terminals, intermodal yards, and logistics hubs with frequent container handling and stacking.


Straddle carrier spreaders are designed in different configurations to match container size, handling mode, and terminal operation requirements. Each type is built for specific working conditions, including mixed container flow, fixed-size handling, and high-frequency yard operations.
Telescopic spreader is the most common type used on straddle carriers. The frame length changes through a hydraulic system to fit 20ft and 40ft containers. It is used in terminals handling mixed container sizes.
Fixed spreader is built for one container size, usually 40ft. The frame length is not adjustable. It has a simple structure and is used where container sizes are consistent and operations are stable.
Twin-lift spreader is designed to lift and transport two 20ft containers at the same time. It is used in high-volume container yards where 20ft containers are handled frequently.
Multi-function spreader is equipped with side shift, rotation, and tilt functions. It supports container alignment, positioning correction, and operation in complex yard conditions.
Electro-hydraulic spreader is controlled through PLC and hydraulic systems. It manages locking, positioning, and feedback functions and is used in modern straddle carrier configurations with higher control requirements.
The straddle carrier spreader is made up of several mechanical and hydraulic systems that work together to handle container lifting, positioning, and locking operations in yard environments.
Each component plays a specific role in supporting stable container handling. Different configurations are available to match straddle carrier design and terminal operation requirements.
| Core Parameter / Feature | Technical Specification & Data |
|---|---|
| Applicable Sizes | Standard 20 ft, 40 ft (Telescopic up to 45 ft, 48 ft & HC) |
| Locking Mechanism | Automatic twistlocks (locks into top corner castings) |
| Rated Capacity | 30 to 50 tons (Mainstream: 35t / 40t / 45t) |
| Self-Weight | 8 to 15 tons (Depending on material & design) |
| Telescopic Range | Approx. 6.0 m to 12.5 m (Hydraulic extension) |
| Side-Shift Range | ±200 mm to ±500 mm (Lateral deviation compensation) |
| Rotation Angle | ±3° to ±5° (Advanced models support 90° rotation) |
| Tilting Angle | ±3° to ±5° (Fore-and-aft tilt for uneven ground) |
| Frame Structure | High-strength welded steel (Telescopic main & crossbeams) |
| Connection Type | Wire ropes / hydraulic cylinders with guide wheels |
| Drive System | Full hydraulic drive (Extension, twistlocks, side-shift) |
| Control System | Integrated PLC control with auto-size recognition |
| Safety Config | Twistlock sensors, overload protection, tilt limits, E-stop |
| Host Matching | Matches lifting height, wheel loads & stacking tiers (1-over-4) |
| Automation Trend | Smart sensors for precise positioning & unmanned handling |
| Optional Types | Twin-lift spreaders (Handles 2 x 20 ft containers simultaneously) |
All specifications can be customized according to container size, lifting capacity, straddle carrier configuration, and project requirements.
The straddle carrier spreader handles container pickup, transfer, and stacking in port and yard operations. It is the main lifting component of the straddle carrier system.
It supports continuous container flow between quay, yard, and trucks, and plays a key role in maintaining handling efficiency, yard organization, and operational stability.
The straddle carrier spreader supports container handling in transport, stacking, and yard operations. Its design focuses on stable lifting, accurate alignment, and steady performance under continuous working conditions.
Straddle carrier spreader affects container handling speed, safety, and yard space use. Selection is based on terminal layout and working conditions. Standard and customized designs are available for different applications.
Straddle carrier spreader selection depends on container size, handling demand, carrier configuration, and yard operating conditions. Each factor affects lifting performance, compatibility, and long-term operation stability.
Define container types in operation, including 20ft, 40ft, and non-standard sizes such as 45ft or high cube containers. Spreader range should match these sizes.
Single-container handling or twin-lift operation depends on terminal throughput and handling flow.
Typical yard stacking is 3–5 tiers. This relates to lifting height and locking system strength.
Based on maximum container weight plus spreader weight. Keep a suitable safety margin within the 30–50 ton range.
Side shift, rotation, and tilt functions support container alignment in narrow yard conditions.
Mechanical interface, lifting system, and hydraulic connection match the carrier structure and power system.
The spreader connects with the carrier PLC system for locking, movement control, and signal feedback.
Overload protection, lock status detection, emergency stop, and tilt limit functions.
Frame design supports repeated lifting cycles with resistance to bending and torsion in heavy-duty use.
Manufacturing standard, customization ability, spare parts supply, and after-sales response level.
Final selection is based on working conditions and equipment requirements. Standard models and customized solutions are available for different port and terminal applications.
A straddle carrier spreader is used in port and yard operations for container handling, transfer, and stacking. It works with straddle carriers in different terminal layouts and operating conditions.

Used for stacking and moving containers in yard storage areas.

Transfers containers between quay cranes and yard areas.

Moves containers between yard blocks, rail terminals, and logistics yards.

Applied in customized port and terminal working conditions.

Used in automated and semi-automated terminals for container positioning and handling.

Handles two 20ft containers in one cycle for higher throughput.

Works with 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, and 48ft containers.

Used in operations requiring controlled lifting and positioning.
It supports container movement across quay, yard, and transport systems, covering standard and special handling requirements in container terminals.
Straddle carrier spreaders are available with multiple customization options to match different container types, working environments, and terminal operation requirements. Configurations can be adjusted based on lifting capacity, container flow, and site conditions.
Single-lift for one 20ft, 40ft, or 45ft container per cycle.
Twin-lift for two 20ft containers in one cycle, used in high-throughput terminals.
The hydraulic telescopic frame adjusts between 20ft and 40ft containers, suitable for mixed container operations.
Reinforced structure for heavy containers. Special twistlock and frames for reefers, tank containers, and flat racks.
Epoxy primer + polyurethane top coat, hot-dip galvanizing, or weathering steel for marine and chemical environments.
Low-temperature hydraulic oil, cold-resistant steel, and heating systems for twistlocks and sensors in freezing conditions.
Custom configurations are available for different port and yard applications, covering standard and special operating conditions. Equipment can be configured according to project requirements.
WEIHUA Straddle Carrier Spreader is designed for container handling, transfer, and stacking in port and terminal operations. The product covers different configurations, including telescopic, fixed, twin-lift, and multi-function types, with options for standard and special working conditions.
WEIHUA has long experience in port handling equipment, with capability in engineering design, customized production, and global project support. Contact us for technical details, configuration options, and project-based solutions.


It is a lifting attachment used on straddle carriers for handling ISO containers in ports and yards.
It handles 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, and some 48ft containers, depending on configuration.
A telescopic spreader adjusts length to match different container sizes, mainly 20ft and 40ft.
It lifts two 20ft containers in one cycle to increase handling efficiency.
It uses twistlocks that engage container corner castings for lifting and transport.
Yes. It can be customized for lifting capacity, environment, and container type.
Typical systems include load monitoring, overload protection, and tilt control.
It is used in container terminals, ports, intermodal yards, and logistics hubs.
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