We design and manufacture a comprehensive range of skeletal trailers and truck setups, including 12 and 18 lock semi’s, B-trains, tipping semi’s, stingers, sliding bogie and dangerous goods semi’s. Engineered for lightweight strength and exceptional durability, these trailers ensure efficient and reliable container transport across various freight requirements.
Robust, Lightweight Construction
Engineered using high-tensile steel, laser-cut profiles, and finite element analysis (FEA) to deliver exceptional strength and durability while keeping tare weight to a minimum. All models are engineered for full NZTA HPMV compliance and optimised for maximum payload.
Low Neck Height
Improves stability and maximises load height for high-cube containers.
Versatile Configurations
Available with options like tipping frames, power packs, and sliding bogies to suit different operations.
Container Compatibility
Designs to carry a combination of 20ft, 40ft, and 25ft containers.
Nationwide Service Support & Warranty
Backed by TMC’s own workshops in Auckland, Hamilton, and Christchurch, plus authorised service agents across all main centres.We also operate a full online parts store with fast nationwide delivery of genuine TMC trailer components, keeping your fleet moving with minimal downtime. Every TMC trailer is covered by our 2-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, giving you total confidence and support long after delivery.
Stock Availability
Popular models including semi fixed and sliding bogie skeletals, are held in stock for quick delivery and can be finished in your fleet colours within weeks.
Genset Frames
Integrated frames to accommodate generator sets, ensuring power supply for refrigerated containers.
Sliding Bogies
Sliding rear axle groups that allow for optimum weight distribution while allowing dock loading
Tipping Frames with Power Packs
Hydraulic tipping mechanisms powered by PTO’s, electric/hydraulic, or petrol or diesel power packs, facilitating efficient unloading of containers.
Rear Loading Platforms
Extended platforms at the rear of the trailer to allow for dock loading
Sidelifter / Swinglift Footpads
Standard on most models, providing extra stability for container handling. Available as an option where not fitted.
To transport Dangerous Goods or ISO tank containers, a DG-compliant tank skeletal (or ISO tank chassis) is required. These are purpose-built and certified to safely carry hazardous or bulk liquid loads under New Zealand’s Hazardous Substances Regulations 2004 and the WorkSafe Tank Wagon Codes of Practice, covering design, venting, shut-off, earthing, and rollover protection.
The Tank Wagon Code governs how tank wagons and supporting trailers must be constructed and maintained. It complements NZS 5433, which applies mainly to packaged Dangerous Goods, whereas the Tank Wagon Code covers bulk DG such as ISO tanks.
A compliant skeletal trailer will typically include certified 20 ft ISO tank mounts with reinforced twist-locks, placard holders, earthing points, and fire-extinguisher mounts. It also features a low-centre-of-gravity chassis, reinforced rear bumper for impact protection, IP65-rated wiring, and full compliance documentation from an approved certifier.
A sliding bogie allows the axle group to move along the chassis, enabling operators to optimise weight distribution between the truck and trailer. The main advantages are running the axle group in the ideal position for legal load balance under NZTA mass limits and providing flexibility for efficient dock loading, particularly when aligning containers for loading or unloading.
Although they add some weight and complexity due to the rail and locking mechanisms, sliding bogies deliver far greater versatility for fleets handling different container lengths or operating across varied routes.
In comparison, fixed bogie trailers have a permanently mounted axle group, making them lighter, lower-maintenance, and best suited for consistent operations such as port or short-haul container work.
A 12-lock skeletal trailer has twist-locks positioned for standard container setups — one 40ft, one 20ft, or two close 20ft containers. It’s the common choice for general freight and port operations, offering a lighter, more economical build ideal for fleets mainly hauling standard container sizes.
An 18-lock skeletal trailer includes additional lock positions to handle a wider range of configurations, such as dock loading, spaced 20ft containers, or 25ft GSM units. This design offers greater flexibility for mixed, import/export, or varied container operations.
While the 18-lock version is slightly heavier and more expensive, it provides much more versatility, reducing the need for multiple trailer types within a fleet.
To transport Dangerous Goods or ISO tank containers, a DG-compliant tank skeletal (or ISO tank chassis) is required. These are purpose-built and certified to safely carry hazardous or bulk liquid loads under New Zealand’s Hazardous Substances Regulations 2004 and the WorkSafe Tank Wagon Codes of Practice, covering design, venting, shut-off, earthing, and rollover protection.
The Tank Wagon Code governs how tank wagons and supporting trailers must be constructed and maintained. It complements NZS 5433, which applies mainly to packaged Dangerous Goods, whereas the Tank Wagon Code covers bulk DG such as ISO tanks.
A compliant skeletal trailer will typically include certified 20 ft ISO tank mounts with reinforced twist-locks, placard holders, earthing points, and fire-extinguisher mounts. It also features a low-centre-of-gravity chassis, reinforced rear bumper for impact protection, IP65-rated wiring, and full compliance documentation from an approved certifier.
Super Single 22.5” Tyres (wide single tyres)
✅ Lower tare weight – fewer rims, tyres, and bolts reduce overall trailer weight
✅ Less rolling resistance – improves fuel economy and slightly reduces CO₂ output.
✅ Simpler maintenance – only one tyre per hub to check and replace.
✅ Better tracking – fewer scrub forces on corners, reducing tyre wear on tri-axle setups.
19.5” Dual Tyres
✅ Higher load tolerance per axle – twin tyres spread the weight, ideal for heavy or uneven loads.
✅ Redundancy – if one tyre fails, the other can support the axle temporarily.
✅ Lower deck height – smaller diameter tyres reduce overall trailer height.
We carry stock skeletal units for immediate delivery, and can often paint and fit these in your fleet colours within just a few weeks.
For urgent jobs or common configurations (fixed or sliding bogie, 12-lock or 18-lock setups), we can usually get you on the road quickly.
If you have a specific deadline or spec, talk to us, we can often fast-track production or allocate an in-stock chassis to suit your needs.
TMC trailers are backed by nationwide after-sales support through our own workshops in Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch and authorised service agents in all main centres. Our team provides warranty repairs, servicing, and genuine parts to keep your trailer on the road and performing at its best.
All new TMC trailers include a free 5,000 km service check, ensuring everything is running perfectly after delivery.
We also operate a full online parts store with hundreds of trailer components — from axles and suspension parts to lights, mudguards, and hardware — all available for fast delivery across New Zealand.
👉 Shop online: tmc.kiwi/parts
Every TMC trailer is supported by our 2-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, giving you complete confidence long after delivery.
With over 77 years of experience, TMC is proudly New Zealand owned and operated, delivering trailers built for Kiwi conditions. Our nationwide service network and proven reputation mean you get support wherever you are—and performance you can trust. Join the many operators who rely on TMC to keep their business moving.
Engineered for NZ, designed to perform – not just to comply
With 3 generations of experience, we know what works and doesn’t
Nationwide support backed by the best warrant in the industry
Trusted by NZ’s biggest transport companies and local operators alike
