Rail

Road-Rail Trailers by Chieftain Trailers

Chieftain Trailers manufacture road-rail trailers that operate on both public roads and railway track, providing versatile transport solutions for rail contractors and infrastructure companies. The 6-metre Road/Rail Flat Trailer combines road and rail capability with general plant transport and container handling, all in a single unit. Designed and built at Chieftain's Dungannon factory.

3 Way Tipping Road/Rail Trailer
Rail

3 Way Tipping Road/Rail Trailer

The Chieftain 3-Way Tipping Road Rail Trailer is a versatile 6-metre trailer designed for both road transport and rail operation, with dedicated rail running gear and three-way tipping for flexible material handling. Designed for the efficient movement and controlled discharge of ballast and other bulk materials, the tipping body can discharge to the rear, left or right, providing greater flexibility during track construction, renewal and maintenance operations. Hydraulically operated rail gear enables conversion between road and rail configurations, while commercial road running gear and dedicated rail braking systems provide dependable performance in both environments. Approved to RIS 1530 for UK rail and I-PLM-5001 for Irish rail.

View Details
Road/Rail Platform Trailer
Rail

Road/Rail Platform Trailer

The Chieftain Road Rail Platform Trailer is a versatile 6-metre transport solution engineered to operate both on the road and on the railway, providing one trailer for the movement of machinery, equipment, materials and ballast across both environments. Hydraulically operated rail gear allows the trailer to transition between road and rail operation, while commercial road running gear, dedicated steel rail wheels, comprehensive braking systems and a heavy-duty flat platform provide dependable performance throughout. Approved to RIS 1530 for UK rail and I-PLM-5001 for Irish rail, it provides rail contractors with a highly flexible transport solution for modern infrastructure and maintenance operations.

View Details

Road-Rail Trailers by Chieftain Trailers

Chieftain's road-rail trailer is designed for the dual demands of road and rail transport, eliminating the need for separate trailers for each environment. The trailer is equipped with both road and rail axle systems, allowing it to travel on public highways to reach worksites and then transition to rail track for the final leg to the work area.

The 6-metre Road/Rail Flat Trailer features a flat body with a steel floor, providing a versatile platform for a wide range of loads. Rail axles consist of 2 x 12-tonne 8-stud full beam axles with 550mm P1/10 profile rail wheels. For road use, the trailer is fitted with 310mm x 190mm commercial axles on parabolic spring suspension with 235/75 R17.5 road wheels. Air or hydraulic brakes are available to suit the towing vehicle.

A key feature is the inclusion of 4 x ISO twistlocks on the deck, enabling the trailer to transport standard shipping containers. This makes the road-rail trailer exceptionally versatile: it can move containers from one job to another, transport general plant and equipment, or carry materials and supplies to rail worksites, all using a single trailer that operates on both road and rail.

Additional standard features include a 50mm or 57.5mm towing eye, 2-speed jack leg at the front, tying points on the deck, full LED road lighting, and comprehensive safety labelling. The trailer is shot-blasted and finished in two-pack primer and paint for long-term durability.

Why Choose Chieftain?

Road-rail capability in a single trailer reduces fleet costs and simplifies logistics for rail contractors. Chieftain's road-rail trailer handles the transition between road and rail without compromise, carrying full commercial axle and braking specification for road use alongside railway-rated axles and wheels for track operation. Built to order at Dungannon with options for specific project requirements.

Request a Quote Call +44 (0)28 8774 7531

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a road-rail trailer?

A road-rail trailer can operate on both public roads and railway tracks. It is towed on the road like a conventional trailer and then converted for rail use at a track access point. This dual capability allows materials and equipment to be transported from depots to railway worksites without separate road and rail vehicles.

How does a road-rail conversion work?

A road-rail conversion involves fitting a trailer with rail wheels that can be deployed when the trailer is placed on the track. The road wheels are lifted clear of the rails, and the trailer runs on its rail wheels. Chieftain offer road-rail conversions on a range of trailer types, including flat trailers and tipping trailers.

What types of trailer can Chieftain convert for road-rail use?

Chieftain offer road-rail conversions for flat trailers, tipping trailers, and specialist configurations. The conversion is designed to add rail capability without compromising the trailer's road performance. Both the 6 metre Road/Rail Flat Trailer and various tipping rail trailers are available in road-rail configuration.

Are road-rail trailers legal for use on public roads?

Yes. The road-going component of a Chieftain road-rail trailer is designed and equipped to meet road transport regulations, with appropriate lighting, braking, and suspension. When operating on the railway, the trailer must comply with the relevant rail authority's safety requirements. Chieftain ensure both modes of operation meet the applicable standards.

What are the benefits of a road-rail trailer over separate road and rail vehicles?

A road-rail trailer eliminates the need to transfer loads between road and rail vehicles at track access points. This saves time, reduces handling, and lowers the risk of damage to materials and equipment. A single trailer completes the entire journey from depot to trackside, improving efficiency on railway maintenance projects.

How long does it take to convert a road-rail trailer between modes?

The conversion between road and rail mode on a Chieftain road-rail trailer is designed to be completed quickly at a track access point. The rail wheels are deployed or retracted using the trailer's built-in conversion system, allowing the changeover to be performed by the operating crew without specialist equipment or prolonged downtime.

Can Chieftain build a custom road-rail trailer for a specific project?

Yes. Chieftain's engineering team regularly works with rail contractors to design road-rail trailers for specific project requirements. Custom specifications can include particular deck configurations, load capacities, tipping mechanisms, and conversion systems tailored to the rail network and site conditions where the trailer will operate.

Related Categories

Rail Trailers Dedicated rail-only trailers for track operations Semi Low Loaders Road-only transport for heavy rail plant Commercial Drawbars Road transport solutions for rail contractors Rail Trailers 5 products

FIND YOUR CHIEFTAIN.

Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.

Request a Quote Call Us