In 2025, intermodal freight remains the backbone of logistics across British Columbia. With container volumes reaching record highs at the Port of Vancouver and growing demand for fast, reliable inland delivery, fleet operators are under increasing pressure to scale quickly and operate efficiently. But as any drayage company or 3PL will tell you—when container volumes spike, intermodal chassis availability can make or break a business.

That’s why more Surrey-based fleets are turning to intermodal chassis rentals as a strategic advantage. At Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales, we offer flexible, ready-to-roll rental options that allow you to meet demand without overextending your capital.

Whether you’re a fleet manager trying to cover seasonal surges or an owner-operator expanding into new contracts, chassis rentals offer flexibility, compliance, and peace of mind. In this article, we’ll explore why rentals are booming in 2025, the types of equipment we offer, and how Mainland TTS can help you scale smarter.

1. The Intermodal Boom in 2025: Why Demand for Chassis Is Surging

British Columbia’s logistics infrastructure has never been busier. The Port of Vancouver—the largest port in Canada—is projected to move over 4.2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2025, a new high driven by:

• Post-pandemic trade normalization

• Massive e-commerce import volumes

• New inland terminal development by CN and CPKC

• Rapid warehouse growth in Surrey, Richmond, Delta, and Abbotsford

With these trends, container flow is more dynamic than ever—often unpredictable and highly seasonal. Fleets are being asked to mobilize faster, turn equipment quicker, and maintain consistent delivery timelines, even under pressure.

But here’s the challenge: chassis inventory is limited, and purchasing new equipment isn’t always feasible—or smart.

2. Why Renting Chassis Beats Buying in 2025

Chassis purchases are long-term capital commitments. While they make sense for large, stable fleets with predictable container volume, most small-to-medium operators face:

• High upfront costs (often $12,000–$18,000 per unit)

• Ongoing maintenance, registration, and insurance obligations

• Limited flexibility during slow seasons

• Risk of unused or underutilized assets sitting idle

Renting offers an alternative that aligns better with today’s fast-changing market. Here’s why:

✔ No Capital Expenditure

Avoid tying up cash or taking on loans. Our rental plans are fully deductible as operating expenses.

✔ Short-Term Flexibility

Rent for a day, a week, a month—or longer. Scale up when needed, return when not.

✔ Included Maintenance

We handle maintenance, inspections, and safety compliance, reducing your downtime risk.

✔ Quick Turnaround

Need to fulfill a new contract or cover for a breakdown? We have chassis ready to roll within 24 hours.

✔ Preserve Credit Lines

Leave your financing capacity open for other priorities—drivers, insurance, or fuel.

For Surrey fleets serving Deltaport, CN, or CP terminals, renting gives you the power to move containers without delay—keeping clients happy and operations efficient.

3. Types of Chassis We Offer for Rent

At Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales, we maintain a diverse rental fleet of high-quality intermodal chassis, including:

🔹 20’ Standard Chassis

Ideal for single-container hauls within the Lower Mainland.

🔹 40’ Gooseneck Chassis

The most common unit for 40-foot container moves, compatible with most major lines.

🔹 45’ Extended Chassis

For longer cargo or port-specific needs where 45-foot containers are in use.

🔹 Combo 20/40/45’ Tandem Chassis

Highly versatile—perfect for operations with variable container sizes.

🔹 Tri-Axle Chassis

For overweight loads or heavy refrigerated imports requiring compliant axle distribution.

Key Features on Our Rental Units:

• LED lighting for enhanced safety

• Radial tires with excellent tread

• Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)

• Galvanized or painted rust-resistant frames

• CVI and DOT-compliant units

• Options for spring or air suspension

All equipment undergoes pre-rental inspections, ensuring you hit the road with confidence.

4. Who Should Rent Intermodal Chassis?

Whether you’re a small drayage company, a transloading warehouse, or a high-volume importer, chassis rentals can make your business more agile.

✅ Owner-Operators Expanding Fast

Renting allows you to take on new clients without waiting months to buy or finance a trailer.

✅ 3PLs and Warehouses with Variable Volume

Avoid owning too many chassis in quiet months. Rent when container flows spike.

✅ Cross-Border Fleets

If you’re picking up in Surrey and delivering across the U.S., our DOT-ready chassis streamline compliance.

✅ New Fleets Avoiding Upfront Investment

Not sure how fast you’ll scale? Renting lets you test the waters without major capex.

✅ Fleet Managers Managing Downtime

When your own units are in for repair, rentals fill the gap instantly—no missed loads, no late fees.

5. What Makes Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales Different?

We’re not just another equipment dealer—we’re your logistics partner. Here’s what you get when you rent from Mainland:

⚙️ Fast Approval Process

Get rolling in as little as 1 business day.

🚚 Pickup or Delivery Options

Collect from our Surrey yard or schedule delivery to your facility or terminal.

🔧 Maintenance Included

We inspect and maintain all units before, during, and after rental.

📄 Simple Contracts

No long-term commitments or complex terms. Just clear, fair rental terms tailored to your needs.

🛠 Breakdown Assistance

Optional 24/7 roadside support—available for customers running high-frequency loads.

📆 Flexible Terms

Choose from daily, weekly, or monthly rentals. Custom plans available for long-term users.

6. Our Strategic Location in Surrey, BC

Surrey is quickly becoming one of Canada’s most important logistics hubs—and we’re right at the heart of it.

From our location at 9616 188 Street, Surrey, you’re minutes away from:

• Port of Vancouver

• Fraser Surrey Docks

• Deltaport and Vanterm

• Highways 1, 17, and 99

• CN and CP Intermodal Yards

This means faster turnarounds, less deadhead, and quicker access to customers, terminals, and transloading points.

We also serve customers across the Lower Mainland—Burnaby, Richmond, Langley, Delta, Abbotsford, and Vancouver—with delivery options available.

7. Ready to Book Your Chassis Rentals?

There’s no better time to simplify your container transport operation. With freight volumes on the rise and equipment prices high, renting intermodal chassis just makes sense. Whether you need one unit or twenty, Mainland Truck & Trailer Sales can support your fleet with:

• Competitive rates

• Transparent contracts

• Reliable equipment

• Local expertise

• Customer-first service

Contact Us Today

📍 Visit Us: 9616 188 Street, Surrey, BC V4N 3M2
📞 Call: +1 866-888-6887
🌐 View Inventory: www.MainlandTTS.com
📩 Email: info@mainlandtts.com

Your next container load is waiting—let us help you move it with confidence.