The 11 Most Common Trailer Types Used in ...

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Choosing the right trailer for freight can be confusing with so many different types available. Since 1955, Anderson Trucking Service (ATS) has been assisting customers in selecting the ideal trailer and even working with manufacturers to develop some of the trailers we see today. This guide dives into the most common trailer types in 2024 and their uses, helping you choose the best fit for your needs.

Dry Van Trailers

Dry van trailers are the go-to for shipping palletized, boxed, or loose commodities. Measuring around 53 feet, they are the most common type of trailer on the roads today. Companies like Walmart, Target, and Procter & Gamble use them to transport items such as clothing, non-perishable foods, and household goods.

They are ideal for loading docks due to their box-like shape and enclosed container, ensuring safe transport. These trailers can carry up to 42,000-45,000 pounds but are not suitable for oversized loads. They are cost-effective, with lower cost per mile compared to open-deck trailers.

Fast Facts:

• 61% of trailers produced in the US in 2021 were dry vans.
• Typically 48-53 feet long, 101 inches wide, and 110 inches high.
• Max weight capacity: 42,000-45,000 pounds.
• Ideal for loading/unloading via a loading dock.

Standard Flatbed Trailers

Standard flatbed trailers, available in sizes like 24, 40, 45, 48, and 53 feet, are incredibly versatile. The 48-foot version is the most commonly used. They haul items like steel, lumber, and construction equipment, offering easy loading/unloading thanks to open sides and back.

Freight on flatbeds must be well-secured with chains, straps, or tarps as they are exposed to the elements. They can carry up to 48,000 pounds and handle oversized loads with proper permits.

Fast Facts:

• 9% of trailers produced in the US in 2021 were standard flatbeds.
• Can haul up to 48,000 pounds with max dimensions of 8'6" height and width.
• Available in multiple sizes.

Refrigerated Trailers (Reefers)

Reefers are designed for temperature-controlled freight, moving perishable items like fruit, pharmaceuticals, and ice cream. They share a weight capacity with dry vans (42,000-45,000 pounds) but have slightly less cargo height and width due to insulation.

They can turn off their temperature control system to function as dry vans when necessary.

Fast Facts:

• 15% of trailers produced in 2021 were reefers.
• Max weight capacity: 42,000-45,000 pounds.
• Max height: 8-8'2"; Max width: 8'2".

Drop-Deck/Step-Deck Trailers

Designed for taller loads, these trailers have an upper and lower deck, allowing additional cargo height. They can haul loads up to 10-11 feet high, making them perfect for agricultural and construction equipment.

Fast Facts:

• Standard alternatives to flatbeds.
• Max height: 10-11 feet; Usually 53 feet long.
• Max weight: ~46,000 pounds; Permitted for oversized loads.

Double Drop/Lowboy Trailers

Double drop trailers carry tall and heavy loads closer to the ground, limiting the cargo to 38,000 pounds. Ideal for industrial machinery, they offer a max height of 11'6"-12'6".

Fast Facts:

• Max weight: 38,000 pounds; Length limited by well space (29 feet).
• Max height: 11'6"-12'6".

Hot Shot Trailers

Hot shot trailers, pulled by class 3-6 pickup trucks, offer a cost-effective way to transport freight over short distances. They are 30-40 feet long and can carry up to 16,500 pounds.

Fast Facts:

• Do not require a traditional semi-tractor.
• Max height: 9'6"-10'; Max weight: 16,500 pounds.

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Conestoga Trailers

Featuring a fixed rail/canopy system, Conestoga trailers protect freight from the elements. Available in various configurations, they are mostly used in aerospace and energy sectors.

Fast Facts:

• Typically 53 feet long.
• Max weight: 42,000-45,000 pounds.

Curtainside Trailers

Similar to Conestoga trailers but with hanging tarps for side loading. They provide excellent protection from the elements and are 48-53 feet long with a max capacity of 40,000-43,000 pounds.

Fast Facts:

• Alternative to dry vans and Conestogas.
• Max weight: 40,000-43,000 pounds.

Extendable Drop-Deck Trailers

These trailers extend from 38 feet to 65 feet for hauling exceptionally long freight. They can carry up to 43,000 pounds and handle loads up to 10'2".

Fast Facts:

• Middle portion extends from 38 feet to 65 feet.
• Max weight: 43,000 pounds; Max height: 10-11 feet.

Removable Gooseneck Trailers (RGN)

RGN trailers have removable goosenecks, creating a ramp for loading large machinery. They come in various sizes and handle up to 11'6" in height and 38,000 pounds in weight.

Fast Facts:

• Available with 2-3 axles; Max weight: 38,000-65,000 pounds.
• Max height: up to 11'6".

Extendable RGN

When well-space is an issue, expandable RGNs can extend their wells up to 50 feet. They vary in weight capacity, from 38,000 to 225,000 pounds based on the number of axles.

Fast Facts:

• Max length: 50 feet; Max weight: 38,000-225,000 pounds.
• Max height: up to 11'6".

Which Trailer Type is Best For Your Freight?

Now that you have a better understanding of various trailer types, it’s time to choose the one that best fits your freight needs. Whether moving perishable items with a reefer or palletized commodities with a dry van, make sure to consider capacity, budget, and haul length.

Providing accurate shipment information helps order the right trailer:

• Length
• Width
• Height
• Weight
• Piece count
• Commodity name

If you have any questions, please contact us. For more information about container semi trailers, please contact us to get professional answers.