Written by the Pro-Tow Team
Serving Spokane and all of Washington State
A shipping container flipped off the front of its chassis near Geiger Boulevard and Thorpe Road in Spokane, Washington. It was blocking traffic and needed to be cleared as soon as possible.
Pro-Tow by FleetEasy was dispatched to the scene, bringing a crane-style rotator, Landoll trailer and a tow truck to assist with the heavy-duty recovery. Our experienced operators arrived and created a recovery plan to secure the container, recover the damaged chassis, and transport all units back to a secure location.
Here’s how we got the job done:
Phase 1: Scene Assessment & Coordination with the CVE
Phase 2: Stabilization and Separation
A recovery unit was positioned to stabilize the container and chassis. Using controlled lifting techniques, we relieved pressure on the container locks, so we could safely disengage the pins. The chassis was then lowered to the ground.
We moved the semi-tractor forward, disconnected it, and prepared for transport. Because the tires were so badly damaged, we had to tow it backwards. The damaged tractor and chassis were towed to our secure yard in Spokane.
Phase 3: Container Recovery and Transport
While the tractor was being towed away, we got to work recovering the container. A drag winch was used to bring the container parallel with the chassis. We crane-lifted one side of the container while backing the Landoll trailer underneath. Once secured to the trailer, the container was transported to our secured yard for the time being.
Phase 4: Delivery and Uprighting at Customer Yard
The customer requested that we bring the container to their yard. No problem!
Upon arrival, the container was unloaded from the Landoll and positioned on the ground. Our heavy-duty recovery unit was set up for a belly-strap inverse upright. Proper rigging, strap protection, and cribbing were used to ensure a controlled and safe lift. The container was slowly brought upright and set down securely. All rigging was removed, equipment was stowed, and the site was cleared.
Best Possible Outcome
Accidents like these are always stressful for our customers in the transport industry. The heavy-duty recovery can be costly and cause downtime, but Team Pro-Tow works hard to get it done as carefully and efficiently as possible. Our goal is to ensure the safety of people and property and help our customers get their vehicles and cargo back on the road.
With this incident, we had all hands on deck. Several operators were involved in creating an effective heavy-duty recovery plan, safely lifting the equipment, transporting it and helping the customer through the incident with the best possible outcome.
If you need heavy-duty recovery or towing in Spokane, call Pro-Tow. Our 24-hour service, equipment and knowledgeable team will help your fleet and drivers out of any sticky situation.
