PURPOSE: To provide a container train that permits smooth transshipment of containers whereat damage to cargo is reduced, transshipment of containers at stations with no appropriate container loading/unloading equipment, and quick transfer of containers by fewer persons whereat container loading/ unloading and transfer is completed in a laborsaving fashion.

CONSTITUTION: This self-loading/unloading container train includes a central power control unit 2, unique platform cars 4 with gripper-equipped arm assemblies, and scanning devices for monitoring operation plus reading indicia on containers. The crew in the power control unit 2, which has a driving arrangement, operates the train and container loading/unloading equipment, either manually or automatically, remotely.