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Aluminum Tanker Semi Trailer

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What is an Aluminum Tanker Semi Trailer?

An aluminum tanker semi-trailer is an advanced, high-capacity transport vehicle engineered specifically for the bulk hauling of liquid petroleum fuels, gasoline, diesel, and liquid chemical compounds. Unlike traditional carbon-steel tankers, the entire vessel shell, internal surge baffles, and support cradles are fabricated utilizing specialized marine-grade aluminum alloys (typically 5083-H111 or 5454-H111).

The primary engineering goal of utilizing aluminum is a drastic reduction in the vehicle’s unladen weight (tare weight). This weight optimization allows fleet operators to carry more liquid product per trip within legal highway gross vehicle weight limits, directly boosting fleet profitability and reducing fuel consumption during empty return runs.

Performance Spec Matrix: Regional Deployment & Liquid Payloads

Tanker Shell Material SpecTarget Export RegionsCommercial Liquid Cargo TypeEffective Shell Volume
5083 Alloy, 3-Compartment SpecMiddle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE)High-octane premium gasoline, low-sulfur highway diesel fuel.42,000 Liters – 45,000 Liters
5454 Corrosion-Resistant SpecSoutheast Asia (Vietnam, Indonesia)Industrial liquid chemical solvents, methanol, and bio-fuels.38,000 Liters – 40,000 Liters
5083 Heavy-Duty Multi-Axle SpecSouth America (Colombia, Peru)Crude oil extraction fluids, mineral oils, and bulk industrial lubricants.48,000 Liters – 55,000 Liters
Food-Grade Insulated Aluminum SpecCentral Asia (Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan)Bulk vegetable oils, liquid sugar syrups, and potable drinking water.35,000 Liters – 42,000 Liters

Advanced Mechanical & Safety Principles of Fluid Dynamics

Transporting large volumes of liquid involves managing dynamic fluid surges. The engineering of an aluminum tanker relies on key fluid dynamics principles:

Internal Surge Disruption (Baffle Mechanics)

As a tanker accelerates, decelerates, or enters a turn, the liquid inside moves rapidly, creating severe kinetic wave energy (sloshing). If unchecked, this fluid movement can push the truck forward during braking or cause a rollover during turns. To prevent this, the tank interior is divided by dish-shaped aluminum surge baffles with specialized relief ports. These baffles break up the liquid waves, neutralizing kinetic energy and ensuring stable vehicle handling.

  • [Forward Vehicle Braking Force] —>
  • =========================================
  • ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~
  • ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~   <– Fluid Waves Blocked & Dissipated
  • ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~ ~ | ~ ~
  • =========================================
  • [Surge Baffle Walls with Relief Holes]

Low Center-of-Gravity Cross-Sections

Modern aluminum tankers are engineered with a specialized “D-shaped” or elliptical cross-section rather than a perfect circle. This geometric configuration drops the liquid payload’s center of gravity closer to the axles, increasing lateral rollover resistance during high-speed highway maneuvers.

Eliminating High-Stakes Liquid Transit Failures

  • Structural Stress Cracking at Cradle Mounts:Aluminum expands and contracts with temperature changes, and rigid mounting can lead to stress fractures along the tank shell. High-end aluminum tankers feature flexible, curved mounting cradles attached with specialized rubber dampening pads, allowing the tank to flex safely under dynamic road stress.
  • Friction Spark Generation and Explosion Risks:In accidents, traditional steel tankers can scrape the asphalt and generate hot friction sparks, which can ignite volatile fuel vapors. Marine-grade aluminum alloys are inherently non-sparking, reducing fire and explosion risks during transport incidents.
  • Fuel Contamination from Scale Rust:Carbon-steel tankers can shed tiny particles of iron oxide rust from their internal walls into the fuel, which can plug expensive distribution pumps and damage vehicle fuel systems. Aluminum tankers naturally form an oxide layer that prevents internal rust, keeping high-value fuels clean.

Comprehensive Competitor Breakdown

  • Basic Manual Welding Workshops:They use manual MIG welding with non-shielded gas setups to assemble aluminum plates. This leads to porous welds that fail and leak when subjected to highway vibrations. They also tend to use cheap, unbranded discharge valves that can jam and cause hazardous spills.
  • Premium Western Aerospace Tanker Brands (Heil Trailer):Exceptional engineering and finish quality, but with a high capital cost. Their computerized pneumatic discharge systems are complex and difficult to repair without specialized technicians in remote or developing regions.
  • CJS / Luoxiang Precision Aluminum Production:We bridge this gap by using advanced automated robotic pulse-MIG welding systems under pure argon gas shielding, ensuring deep, leak-free weld joints. Our tankers are equipped with reliable, globally serviceable mechanical components like FUWA/BPW axles and JOST landing gear. This delivers high structural durability, fuel efficiency, and dependable performance at a highly competitive price point for global fleet operators.

 

Unpacking the Tri-Axle Fence Cargo Semi Trailer

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If you drive down any major transport route across developing agricultural economies in Africa, Central Asia, or China, you will see the undisputed king of bulk cargo haulage: the Tri-Axle Fence Cargo Semi Trailer. Often referred to as a cage trailer or livestock trailer, this asset features a flatbed foundation enclosed by high-strength steel side walls topped with a series of open vertical bars or lattice fencing. It is designed to maximize ventilation while providing a secure perimeter for high-volume, loose, or living cargo.

Detailed Technical Specifications

To handle large, top-heavy payloads over long distances, the engineering layout of a fence trailer requires precise specifications:

Feature DimensionHigh-Performance Fence Specification
Total Height Options1,600mm, 1,800mm, to 2,000mm (From platform to fence top)
Chassis Main FrameHeavy-duty I-beam, automatically welded Q345B carbon alloy
Side Wall PanelsRoll-formed corrugated steel panels with quick-release latches
Axle Integration3 x FUWA / BPW 13-ton or 16-ton heavy-duty drum axles
Suspension FrameworkMulti-leaf mechanical spring system (10-layer, 90mm x 16mm specification)
Under-Chassis UtilitiesOversized dual toolboxes, water tank brackets, and spare tire carriers

The Intelligent Manufacturing Journey

The strength of a fence cargo trailer depends on its manufacturing process. At our advanced production facility, we replace manual welding methods with automated industrial technologies.

The process begins on a CNC cutting bed where high-tensile steel plates are cut into shape. The main structural I-beams are then assembled on hydraulic clamping tables and welded using an automated Robotic Submerged Arc Welding system. This system delivers a deep, uniform weld line along the entire length of the chassis, eliminating the internal flaws common in manual welding that can fail under heavy payloads.

After structural assembly, the entire fence trailer frame is processed through an automated shot-blasting bay, where steel grit cleans the surface down to bare metal. The trailer then moves to our advanced Electrophoretic Coating (E-Coat) line. The complete chassis is submerged in a primer bath where an electrostatic charge bonds the paint to the steel, coating the inside of every hollow tube and corrugated panel. This provides excellent rust protection against weathering and organic livestock acids.

Mechanical Principles of Ventilation and Stability

The fence trailer operates on the principle of open aerodynamic airflow combined with perimeter load containment. When hauling livestock or bagged agricultural produce, closed cargo boxes trap heat and moisture, which can spoil fresh crops or cause dangerous heat stress in live animals.

The open lattice fencing allows fresh air to flow through the cargo bay continuously while the vehicle is in motion, removing heat and keeping internal temperatures stable. To handle the high center of gravity of stacked cargo, the trailer uses a low-set chassis frame and wide-track mechanical suspensions. This design lowers the vehicle’s roll axis, helping it remain stable during sharp turns or on unpaved roads.

Solving Key Agri-Logistics Challenges

  • Preventing Spoilage of Perishable Goods:Closed vans trap heat, which can quickly ruin fresh agricultural produce like watermelons, cabbages, or potatoes. The open-fenced design keeps fresh air circulating, preventing heat buildup and preserving the quality of the cargo over long distances.
  • Eliminating Cage Sag and Gate Distortions:Lower-quality trailers often see their side cages bulge outward when loose cargo shifts, which jams the rear and side gates. Our fence trailers feature roll-formed corrugated side gates and reinforced vertical pillars that resist bowing under pressure, keeping the gates working smoothly.
  • Resisting Organic Chemical Corrosion:Livestock waste produces acidic compounds that can eat through standard spray paint, leading to structural rust within years. Our automated E-Coat primer process coats the entire frame, providing a durable barrier that protects the steel from organic corrosion.

Straightforward Competitive Breakdown

  • Low-Cost Local Repair Shops:These shops manually weld standard scrap steel, skipping the shot-blasting and E-Coat priming processes. They apply manual spray paint over raw mill scale, which leads to rust and peeling within months. Their frames are also prone to cracking under high structural stress.
  • CJS Premium Automated Production:We use automated robotic welding and a full-chassis electrophoretic coating line to deliver durable structural strength and rust protection. Built with genuine FUWA/BPW axles and reinforced multi-leaf suspensions, our fence trailers provide reliable performance and lower long-term operating costs for fleet owners.

 

16.64 M 4-Axle Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer

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16.64-Meter 4-Axle Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer: The Ultimate Guide to Specifications, Applications, and Maintenance

In the freight industry, efficiency, cargo protection, and loading speed are crucial. One of the most universally adopted solutions is the 16.64-meter 4-axle curtain-sided semi-trailer. This semi-trailer combines the weatherproof performance of a box van with the loading convenience of a flatbed, making it a favorite among logistics companies in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

16.64-Meter 4-Axle Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer: The Ultimate Guide to Specifications, Applications, and Maintenance

Conestoga vs. Curtain Side Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Flatbed Solution

But what exactly makes this 16.64m, 4-axle curtain-sided trailer so special? Why this specific length and axle configuration? This comprehensive guide answers all your questions—from detailed specifications and real-world applications to repair procedures, maintenance schedules, safety protocols, and competitor comparisons.

Whether you’re a fleet owner, logistics manager, or independent truck driver, understanding this 16.64m 4-axle curtain-sided semi-trailer will help you make informed purchasing decisions and maximize your return on investment.

4-Axle Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer

What is a Curtain-Sided Trailer? A Complete Guide for Logistics and Transport Businesses

1. What is a 16.64m 4-Axle Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer?

A curtain-sided semi-trailer (also known as a tautliner or sliding curtain trailer) is a type of goods vehicle characterized by a rigid roof, fixed floor, and movable curtains on both sides. Unlike a box van, the curtains can slide open along the entire length, allowing forklifts or cranes to load and unload cargo from the sides.

The 16.64m length typically refers to the external or internal length of the cargo body – a standard size in many European markets (approx. 54.6 feet). The 4-axle configuration means the trailer has four axles at the rear, offering higher legal payload capacity compared to 2-axle or 3-axle models.

Key Features:

  • Side Curtains: High-strength PVC-coated polyester, often with tensioning straps.

  • Roof: Fixed aluminum or steel panels.

  • Floor: Wooden or aluminum planks laid over steel cross members.

  • Axles: 4 units, typically with air suspension.

  • Loading Access: Full-length side opening, rear swing doors, or roller doors.

2. Detailed Specification Table

Here is a complete specification table for a standard 16.64m 4-axle curtain-sided semi-trailer compliant with EU and international regulations.

This is a photo of our factory. We have our own production facilities and assembly lines, along with a professional team that can customize semi-trailers to suit your needs. Our factory guarantees both efficiency and quality. Should you have any requirements, please feel free to contact us anytime.
SpecificationValue / RangeComments
Overall Length16.64 m (54.6 ft)Common European standard
Internal Load Bed Length13.6 – 13.8 m (44.6 – 45.3 ft)Excludes gooseneck area
Internal Width2.45 – 2.55 m (8.0 – 8.4 ft)Euro pallet compatible (2 x 1.2m pallets side by side)
Internal Height2.65 – 2.80 m (8.7 – 9.2 ft)Varies with roof design
Overall Width2.55 m (8.4 ft)Maximum legal width in EU
Overall Height4.0 m (13.1 ft)Standard EU height limit
Number of Axles4Typically 2 steerable, 2 fixed or all liftable
Axle TypeAir suspension (optional mechanical)Air ride improves cargo protection
Tire Size385/65R22.5 or 315/80R22.5Low rolling resistance preferred
Payload Capacity24 – 28 metric tons (52,900 – 61,700 lbs)Dependent on tare weight
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)36 – 40 metric tonsLegal limit in most EU countries
Tare Weight (Empty)8.5 – 9.5 metric tonsAluminum floor reduces weight
Curtain MaterialPVC-coated polyester, 900 g/m²Tear-resistant, waterproof
Curtain Opening MechanismManual sliding or roller trackSingle-person operation
Rear Door TypeDouble swing doors (fully opening) or roll-up270° opening optional
Floor Material27 mm laminated hardwood or 20 mm aluminumAluminum for higher payload
Roof MaterialAluminum sheets over steel bows0.8 – 1.0 mm thickness
Side Protection2 rows of internal tension strapsFor securing cargo
Brake SystemEBS (Electronic Braking System) with ABSMandatory for 4-axle trailers
Landing Gear2-speed crank or hydraulic24-ton static capacity
LightingFull LED, ECE approved24V system
Kingpin2-inch (50.8 mm) or 3.5-inch (90 mm)Jost or SAF brand
Suspension LiftAxle lift system (optional)Reduces tire wear when empty

3. Main Applications of the 16.64m 4-Axle Curtain-Sided Trailer

This trailer configuration is one of the most versatile in the logistics industry. Here are its primary applications:

A. Palletized Freight (Euro Pallets, Industrial Pallets)

  • Capacity: Up to 33 Euro pallets (1200×800 mm) or 26 industrial pallets (1200×1000 mm).

  • Advantage: Side curtains allow loading/unloading of pallets without reordering the load.

B. Retail Distribution

  • Supermarket deliveries, clothing stores, electronics — goods that require weather protection but frequent access to specific sections.

  • Example: A retail chain delivering mixed pallets to 10 different stores on one route.

C. Cross-Docking and LTL (Less Than Truckload)

  • Curtain sides enable forklifts to access any part of the load instantly, ideal for cross-dock operations where multiple shipments are consolidated.

D. Paper, Packaging, and Light Industrial Goods

  • Rolls of paper, cardboard, plastic granules (in bulk bags) — easy side loading with forklift clamps.

E. Furniture and Household Goods

  • Large, bulky items that cannot fit through rear doors alone. Side access eliminates the need for a tail lift in many cases.

F. Automotive Parts

  • Just-in-time (JIT) deliveries to assembly plants — quick access to specific racks without unloading the entire trailer.

4. Industry Pain Points Solved by This Trailer Type

This is a detailed picture of the parts for a curtain trailer. All products are produced, developed and supervised by our factory. We can assure you of our product quality and production efficiency.In addition, we have a professional R&D team and engineers who can customize the most suitable trailer for you. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have any requirements.
ProblemHow the 16.64m 4-Axle Curtain-Sider Solves It
Slow loading/unloading through rear doors onlyFull-length side curtains allow forklift access from either side, cutting load time by up to 70%.
Weather damage to cargoWaterproof PVC curtains and fixed roof protect goods from rain, snow, and UV.
Legal weight restrictions4 axles distribute weight more evenly, allowing higher legal payload (up to 28 tons) compared to 3-axle (24 tons).
Cargo shifting during transitInternal tension straps and floor-mounted lashing rings secure pallets tightly.
High fuel consumptionAerodynamic curtains and streamlined roof reduce drag compared to box vans.
Empty running (deadhead)Axle lift system raises unloaded axles, reducing tire wear and fuel consumption by 8–12%.
Difficulty accessing mixed cargoCurtains can be opened at any point — no need to unload front pallets to reach rear ones.

5. Competitive Comparison: Curtain-Sider vs. Other Trailer Types

Many transport operators wonder: why choose a curtain-sided trailer over a box van or flatbed? Here is a detailed comparison.

Feature16.64m 4-Axle Curtain-SiderDry Van (Box Trailer)Flatbed TrailerRefrigerated Trailer
Side AccessFull lengthRear onlyFull length (open)Rear only
Weather ProtectionFull (waterproof)FullNoneFull + temperature control
Loading SpeedVery fast (forklift from side)Slow (pallet jack from rear)Very fastSlow
Payload Capacity (typical)24–28 tons22–25 tons24–26 tons20–22 tons
Tare Weight8.5–9.5 tons7.5–8.5 tons6.5–7.5 tons9.5–11 tons
Typical Cost (New, 2025)
Best ForMixed pallets, retail, cross-dockSingle-customer, secure cargoHeavy machinery, steel, timberPerishable food, pharmaceuticals
Security LevelModerate (curtains can be cut)High (solid walls)LowHigh
Maintenance ComplexityModerate (curtains + mechanisms)LowVery lowHigh (reefer unit)

Key Takeaway: Choose a 16.64m 4-axle curtain-sided trailer when you need fast side access, weather protection, and maximum legal payload. Choose a dry van for high-security cargo, and a flatbed for extremely heavy or oversized items.

6. How to Repair a Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer

Even well-maintained trailers require repairs. Here are the most common issues and solutions.

A. Curtain Repair (Tears, Holes, or Strap Failure)

  • Symptoms: Visible holes, water leakage, broken tension straps.

  • Repair Steps:

    1. Clean the damaged area with isopropyl alcohol.

    2. Apply a PVC repair patch (at least 2 inches larger than the tear).

    3. Heat-seal using a heat gun (300–350°C) or use cold glue for temporary fixes.

    4. Replace broken tension straps: Remove old strap, thread new 50mm polyester strap through the hem, rivet end fittings.

    5. Test tension – curtain should be tight but not over-stretched.

B. Roller Track or Sliding Mechanism Repair

  • Symptoms: Curtain jams, difficult sliding, roller detachment.

  • Repair Steps:

    1. Inspect aluminum track for dents or debris.

    2. Remove damaged rollers using a flathead screwdriver.

    3. Replace with identical nylon or steel rollers (typically 40mm diameter).

    4. Lubricate the track with silicone spray (never grease – grease attracts dirt).

C. Floor Repair (Wood or Aluminum)

  • Symptoms: Soft spots, rot (wood floor), cracks (aluminum).

  • For Wood Floor:

    1. Cut out damaged section with a circular saw (depth set to 27mm).

    2. Treat surrounding area with wood preservative.

    3. Install new marine plywood or hardwood plank.

    4. Drill, screw, and plug holes with epoxy.

  • For Aluminum Floor:

    1. Cut out cracked section with aluminum blade.

    2. Weld using 5356 aluminum wire and TIG welder.

    3. Grind smooth and apply non-slip coating.

D. Axle and Suspension Repair

  • Symptoms: Uneven tire wear, bumpy ride, air leaks.

  • Repair Steps:

    • For air suspension: Replace leaking airbags (never patch). Torque to manufacturer specs (typically 150–200 Nm for bag mounting).

    • Axle alignment: Take trailer to a truck alignment shop with laser alignment equipment. Adjust shims if deviation exceeds 3mm per axle.

  • Safety Warning: Never work under a raised trailer without using appropriately rated jack stands. Curtain-sided trailers have a high center of gravity when empty.

7. Preventive Maintenance Schedule

To keep your 16.64m 4-axle curtain-sided trailer in service for 15+ years, follow this maintenance schedule.

FrequencyTasksTools/Products Needed
Daily (Pre-trip)Check curtains for damage; inspect curtain tension straps; test all lights; check tire pressure (8.0–8.5 bar / 116–123 psi)Flashlight, tire pressure gauge
WeeklyLubricate roller tracks (silicone spray); inspect floor for damage; check roof for punctures; lubricate landing gearSilicone spray, grease gun (lithium complex)
MonthlyCheck all lashing rings (tightness); inspect brake pads (min thickness 6mm); test EBS function; clean curtain hemsBrake pressure gauge, EBS diagnostic tool
QuarterlyTighten wheel nuts (550–600 Nm); inspect axle lift mechanism; replace worn curtain tension buckles; inspect kingpin wearTorque wrench, kingpin wear gauge
AnnuallyProfessional curtain waterproofing treatment; replace air dryer filter cartridge; DOT/MOT annual inspection; landing gear load testPressure washer, coating spray
BienniallyRepack wheel hub bearings; replace all curtain hem ropes; inspect roof sealant; NDT of chassis weldsBearing packer, sealant gun

8. How to Ensure Safety Performance

Safety is paramount when operating a 16.64m 4-axle trailer, especially when traveling fully loaded at 80-90 km/h.

Pre-Operation Safety Checks

  • Curtain Security: All tension straps must be tight. Loose curtains flap in the wind, causing tears and distracting other drivers.

  • Cargo Securement: Use at least 2 tension straps per row of pallets. Each strap on internal rails should be tensioned to 500 daN.

  • Floor Condition: No protruding nails or broken boards that could pierce cargo.

Driving Safety Precautions

  • Turning Radius: A 16.64m, 4-axle trailer requires approximately 14-15 meters turning radius. Take turns wider.

  • Braking Distance: At 40 tons GVW, stopping distance from 80 km/h is approximately 65 meters – double that of a passenger car.

  • Rear Visibility: Install a reversing camera; the long overhang can obscure obstacles behind the trailer.

Anti-Theft Measures

  • Curtains can be cut. Mitigations include:

    • Security Straps: Wire-reinforced tension straps (cut-resistant).

    • Curtain Alarms: Magnetic contact sensors on rear and side openings.

    • GPS Tracker: Hardwired unit with geofencing alerts.

Annual Legal Inspection (MOT / DOT / TÜV)
Certified inspectors will check:

  • Brake efficiency (≥45% of GVW)

  • Curtain condition (no holes larger than 25mm)

  • Axle load distribution

  • Lighting and reflectivity

  • Air suspension leaks (≤0.5 bar pressure drop over 10 mins)

9. Other Important Considerations

Legal Compliance by Region

  • EU: 16.64m overall length, 2.55m width, 4.0m height, 40 tons GVW for 4 axles (44 tons for combinations).

  • UK: Similar to post-Brexit EU, but allows 44 tons with 6 axles (tractor + 4-axle trailer).

  • Middle East (GCC): Length limits vary – 16.64m is common, but some countries allow 18m with special permits.

Choice Between Manual and Automatic Curtain Systems

  • Manual Sliding: Lower cost, lighter weight, simpler repairs. Best for smaller fleets.

  • Auto-Tensioning Roller Track: Higher cost, faster operation, consistent tension. Best for high-volume distribution centers.

Roof Type Options

  • Aluminum Sheet Roof: Lighter, lower cost, but prone to denting.

  • Fiberglass (GRP) Roof: Heavier, more expensive, but excellent insulation and impact resistance.

  • Canvas Roof (rare): Lightest but least durable – seasonal use only.

Factors Affecting Resale Value

  • Trailers with complete maintenance records sell for 20-30% more.

  • Value-adding features: Air suspension, axle lift system, aluminum floor, LED lighting, EBS.

  • A well-maintained 4-axle curtain-sided trailer can retain 40-50% of its value after 5 years.

10. Conclusion: Is the 16.64m 4-Axle Curtain-Sided Semi-Trailer Right for You?

This 16.64m 4-axle curtain-sided semi-trailer perfectly balances cargo protection, loading efficiency, and legal payload capacity. It is the workhorse of European logistics and is rapidly gaining popularity in other markets.

Choose this trailer if:

  • You frequently handle mixed palletized freight.

  • You need fast side access for cross-docking or multi-drop deliveries.

  • You want maximum legal payload (24-28 tons) without upgrading to a 5-axle configuration.

  • Your routes require weather protection but not the full security of a box van.

Avoid this trailer if:

  • You transport extremely valuable cargo (use a van with alarms).

  • You need temperature control (choose a reefer).

  • Your cargo exceeds 2.8 meters in height (use a flatbed or lowboy).

A quality 16.64m 4-axle curtain-sided semi-trailer from a reputable manufacturer, combined with regular maintenance and safe operation, will provide 15-20 years of reliable service and an excellent return on investment.

Contact Information:
Address: Room 910, Times Square, No. 52 Hong Kong Middle Road, Shinan District, Qingdao City, Shandong Province, China
WhatsApp: +86 13455277771
Email: nick@cjstrailer.com
Contact: Nick Zhu

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