Whether you are considering going into business for yourself or looking to expand your already existing fleet, a dry van trailer is an excellent trailer for transportation, particularly in the shipping business.
What is a dry van trailer?
Dry van trailers were designed to transport loose or boxed, palletized freight. They are not appropriate for oversized shipments, as are flatbed trailers. Unlike refrigerated van trailers, dry van trailers are not temperature-controlled. But these semi-trailers protect shipments from outside elements because it offers an enclosed environment.
Advantages
- Protection– All-round protection of the shipments is its biggest advantage. Hazards such as direct heat, rain, high winds, and other weather hazards are shielded because shipments are enclosed on all sides. Cargo theft is also significantly reduced because these containers can be locked.
- Versatility– This equipment type is one of the most frequently used because in the transport of packaged consumer goods it works exceptionally well. Though household goods, nonperishable foods, and parts and machinery can be moved in a dry van, more commonly shipped with these trailers are electronics, furniture, clothing, etc.
How to choose?
Dimension
28-foot trailers
53-foot trailers
Used for LTL shipments, also called “pup” trailers. By length, width, and height, they measure 28′ x 8′ x 9′. Across their floor space, there’s room for 14 standard pallet positions and 22,500 pounds of freight can be accommodated.
On today’s highways and byways, this is the most common dry van trailers being used. By length, width, and height, common dimensions applying to this trailer are 53′ x 8′ 6″ x 8′ 6 inches. Across their floor space, 26 standard pallet positions are provided, and 45,000 pounds of freight can be accommodated.
Material
Sheet and post trailers
Composite trailers
Sheet and post trailers are built with plywood or a similar material. Approximately one-inch-deep posts separate each section, and logistic slots can be installed to hold the cargo in place during transport, which is especially convenient with LTL shipping. Measuring 98.5 inches wide inside the trailer, the sheet and post trailers are usually lighter but require more consistent repair in comparison to composite trailers.
Composite trailers are composed of composite material, with smooth interior walls. This design reduces the chances of snagging or damaging the freight on the insides of the trailer during loading and unloading. Because actual composite trailer walls are very thin, so, the insides of the trailers can measure 101 inches wide, 2.5 inches wider than sheet and post trailers.
Now you can choose a suitable dry van trailer according to your needs. The 28-foot trailer can place 14 standard pallets, the 53-foot trailer can place 26 standard pallets; the composite trailer has more space than the sheet and post trailer.
If you are interested in a dry van trailer, please feel free to contact us.