In the freight shipping business, you will find two types of highly popular vehicles in use; dry van and flatbed trailer options. Though both are often used for long haulage, each type has its own qualities that can affect your choice of trailer rental. Here we will look at the key characteristics and differences between the two options that can help guide you to what is best suited to your transport needs.
Dry Van Trailer
Dry van trailers are enclosed and hauled behind a semi-truck. They offer the best level of protection for cargo from natural elements, vandalism, and theft. The freight however has to fit the dimensions of the trailer. Dry van trailers have a standard length of about 53 feet and a width of 8.5 feet. Their internal height is about 110 inches. If the cargo is larger than this, a flatbed trailer is the next best option.
They can also be customized to provide specific freight services like temperature-controlled transport. This is often needed when shipping produce and chemicals. Loading and unloading of cargo is done through the rear of dry van trailers. They are often backed up against a loading dock that is of the same height as the trailer. A forklift or pallet jacks are then used to move cargo in or out. A liftgate may also be used to lift and lower freight from the trailer deck to the ground.
Flatbed Trailer
Flatbed trailers are completely open on all sides and top. This open design makes it possible to load cargo from the sides and back. Since it is not covered, it also accommodates cargo of any size or shape. This is particularly useful for oversized objects that cannot be put into conventional covered trailers. A skillful driver is needed to handle this trailer, especially if the cargo is oversized.
The items can easily be loaded and unloaded from different angles using a forklift or crane. However, because the flatbed trailers are not covered, it means that the cargo will be left more exposed and vulnerable to outside elements like the weather. Even when covered with a tarp, it is not quite as secure as in a covered trailer. They also tend to be smaller than dry van trailers with a standard 48-foot length.
Choosing a trailer will mainly depend on what kind of freight is being shipped, the distance to be traveled, if controlled conditions are required, and budget.