Choosing the right trailer is crucial for transporting freight efficiently and safely. With so many types of trailers available, understanding their uses can help you select the best option for your specific needs.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• The most common trailer types and their applications
• Specialty trailers for unique or oversized loads
• Tips for choosing the right trailer for your freight

Common Trailer Types and Their Uses

Trailers come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to carry specific types of cargo. Here are the most commonly used trailer types in logistics:

1. Dry Van Trailers

The most widely used trailer type, dry vans are fully enclosed, protecting cargo from weather and road conditions.

• Best For: Non-perishable goods, boxed freight, consumer products
• Typical Length: 48–53 feet
• Key Features: Fully enclosed, no temperature control
• Common Uses: Retail goods, electronics, building materials

Why Choose a Dry Van:

Dry vans are versatile and suitable for most general freight. They’re an excellent choice when the goods do not require temperature control or special handling.

2. Flatbed Trailers

Flatbeds are open trailers without sides or roofs, making them ideal for oversized or irregularly shaped cargo.

• Best For: Heavy machinery, building materials, steel beams
• Typical Length: 48–53 feet
• Key Features: Open deck, easy loading/unloading
• Common Uses: Construction equipment, large crates, long pipes

Why Choose a Flatbed:

Flatbeds provide flexibility for loading from any angle, making them perfect for heavy or oversized loads that can’t fit in enclosed trailers.

3. Refrigerated Trailers (Reefers)

Reefers are temperature-controlled trailers designed to transport perishable or sensitive goods.

• Best For: Food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals
• Typical Length: 48–53 feet
• Key Features: Insulated, temperature-regulated
• Common Uses: Frozen food, fresh produce, medical supplies

Why Choose a Reefer:

When temperature consistency is crucial, reefers keep cargo within a specific range, ensuring quality during transit.

4. Step Deck Trailers

Also known as drop-deck trailers, these have a lower deck height to accommodate taller cargo.

• Best For: Loads exceeding standard height limits
• Typical Length: 48–53 feet
• Key Features: Two deck levels (upper and lower)
• Common Uses: Heavy machinery, tall equipment

Why Choose a Step Deck:

The lower deck height allows for the transport of taller cargo without requiring special permits.

Specialty Trailers for Unique Loads

Sometimes standard trailers just won’t cut it. Here are some specialty trailers designed for unique freight.

1. Lowboy Trailers

Lowboys are used for hauling heavy, oversized loads that exceed normal height regulations.

• Best For: Construction equipment, industrial machinery
• Features: Extra-low deck height, high weight capacity

2. Tanker Trailers

Designed to transport liquids or gases, tankers are cylindrical and often insulated.

• Best For: Fuel, chemicals, food-grade liquids
• Features: Sealed, pressurized, sometimes temperature-controlled

3. Double Drop Trailers

These trailers have a lower middle section, ideal for extremely tall loads.

• Best For: Industrial machinery, large construction parts
• Features: Front and rear decks with a lower well in the center

4. Conestoga Trailers

These trailers have a retractable tarp system, offering protection while allowing easy side loading.

• Best For: Freight that needs protection without a fully enclosed trailer
• Features: Sliding tarp system, similar to a curtain side

Choosing the Right Trailer for Your Freight

Picking the right trailer is essential for safe and efficient transport. Here’s how to decide:

1. Assess Cargo Type:

• Is your load temperature-sensitive? Choose a reefer.
• Are items oversized or oddly shaped? A flatbed or step deck may be necessary.

2. Consider Loading Requirements:

• If you need side or top loading, flatbeds or Conestoga trailers are ideal.
• For standard palletized goods, a dry van works well.

3. Factor in Regulations:

• Oversized loads may require special permits—choose trailers like lowboys or double drops.
• Check weight limits to ensure compliance.

How Somerset Logistics Can Help

At Somerset Logistics, we match your freight with the ideal trailer for safe, efficient delivery. Our network includes:

• Dry Vans and Reefers: For general freight and temperature-sensitive goods
• Flatbeds and Step Decks: For oversized and heavy cargo
• Specialty Trailers: Including lowboys, tankers, and Conestogas

Our experienced team helps you choose the right trailer based on your cargo and timeline, ensuring reliable transport every time.

Need Help Choosing the Right Trailer?

Let Somerset Logistics take the guesswork out of your next shipment. Contact us today for a free consultation. somersetlogistics.com/customers