SPMT
Self-Propelled Modular Transporter
Also known as: SPMT · Self-Propelled Modular Transporter · Self-propelled trailer
An SPMT is a modular platform with its own engine and drive. It needs no tractor unit, is steered by remote control, and can move extremely heavy loads over short distances.
Names in other languages
- English
- Self-Propelled Modular Transporter
- Türkçe
- Kendinden tahrikli modüler taşıyıcı (SPMT)
- فارسی
- ترابر مدولار خودکشش
- Русский
- Самоходный модульный транспортёр
- 简体中文
- 自行式模块运输车
- العربية
- ناقلة معيارية ذاتية الحركة
Specifications
Typical figures — they vary by manufacturer and by country rules on weights and sizes.
| Internal width | 2,430–3,000 mm |
|---|---|
| Deck height | 1,150–1,850 mm |
| Capacity per axle line | 30,000–48,000 kg |
| Loading method | Top |
Typical cargo
Very heavy modules and plant parts, ship sections, bridge sections, offshore structures, and loads that must be placed with great precision.
In plain words
Like a hydraulic modular trailer, an SPMT is built from axle lines with hydraulic suspension, but some axles are driven by a power pack on the transporter itself. Every axle line can steer, so it can drive sideways, diagonally, or turn on the spot. The operator walks beside it with a remote control. Several units can be linked and controlled as one, to carry several thousand tonnes.
SPMTs usually work on sites: inside plants, shipyards, and ports, for example to load modules onto a ship or barge, or to install a bridge section overnight. They drive slowly, often at walking speed. On public roads, they need the same permits, surveys, and escorts as other heavy-haul vehicles.
Advantages
- Moves thousands of tonnes when several units work together.
- Turns on the spot and drives in any direction for precise positioning.
- Lifts the load itself, so no crane is needed under the load.
Limits
- Very slow; best for short distances.
- Public roads need permits, route surveys, and escorts.
- Specialised equipment and crews are expensive and must be booked early.
Example from real shipping
A refinery reactor of 450 tonnes arrives at a port on a heavy-lift ship. Two linked SPMT units drive under it, lift it with their hydraulic suspension, and carry it 2 km to the plant. There, they turn on the spot and set it down exactly on its foundation.
Related terms
- Modular Trailer (HMT)A modular trailer is built from axle lines that are coupled end to end and side by side. Hydraulic suspension keeps the load level, and the capacity grows with every axle line — up to hundreds of tonnes.
- Low-loader (Lowbed)A low-loader is a trailer with a very low deck, so tall and heavy machines can be carried without going over the height limit. Many have ramps so vehicles can drive on.
- Ro-RoA Ro-Ro ship carries cargo on wheels. Trucks, trailers, cars, and machines drive on and off the ship over ramps, without cranes.
- Road vehicle typesA side-by-side comparison of the trucks and trailers used in road freight: load space, payload, volume, pallet places, loading method, and typical cargo.
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Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.