Ultimate Guide To 16 Truckload Trailer Types
A Definitive Guide to Semi-Tractor-Trailers or Truck Trailer Types
Navigating the world of tractor trailer types can be daunting, especially when trying to find the right one for your freight. Whether you have freight shipping China to Canada know what service, truck trailer length and equipment for collection is crucial. Especially when you are then shipping from Canada to the USA.
When determining the right logistics services for shipping over dimensional freight be it machinery transport for construction logistics, or dry van freight shipping. When understanding the types of flatbed trucks that not all equipment is to serve the same.
Depending on your trucking services and shipping logistics needs, length and trailer dimensions very considerably. It’s best to find the exact size and dimensions of your cargo first then determine the right trailer. Be it a reefer truck or Dry Van or a Flatbed supersized heavy haul, or machinery transport we can help with your shipping logistics to understand all the variations of trailer types with pictures.
Once you have determined all the semi truck dimensions, length of semi truck without trailer, height, weight, length, and width tractor trailer, you will need to determine how it will be loaded upon the trailer and if flatbed tarping systems are required.
Flatbed Trailer Types
Flatbed trailers are the unsung heroes of the trucking world. Picture them: rugged, open, and ready for anything. Their design—no walls, no roof—might seem simple, but in that simplicity lies their power. A flatbed can take on what other trailers can’t: massive steel coils, stacks of lumber, heavy machinery. It’s not just a trailer; it’s a blank canvas for the most demanding cargo in the industry.
Now, think about this: in the last ten years, all trailer types have undergone a quiet evolution. At first glance, they may all look the same, but to someone who knows the business, the differences are as sharp as night and day. After years of helping customers navigate this complexity, one thing is clear—choosing the right trailer is an art form. It’s a decision that can make or break a delivery.
For anyone in trucking, understanding the array of option within all the trailer types are fundamental. Each trailer has its purpose, and each one tells a story about the kind of cargo it’s designed to carry. It’s not just about wheels and axles; it’s about making sure what’s on board gets from point A to point B without a hitch.
Let’s walk through the world of different trailer types, where each one is crafted for a specific job. The open flatbed, the closed-in refrigerated trailer, the dry van—they’re all part of a system designed to keep goods moving across America. But the trick is knowing which one to use, and when. The wrong trailer, and your load could be delayed, damaged, or worse. The right trailer? Well, it’s a different story. It’s efficiency. It’s safety. It’s getting the job done, every time.
As you’ll see, the process of selecting a utility trailer types is as varied as the cargo itself. And when you really understand that, you’ve unlocked the secret to mastering the art of hauling.
Understanding Tractor Trailer Dimensions
Semi tractor trailers come in so many different sizes and matching up such can make a massive difference in your worldwide shipping needs.
Flatbed trailers are the backbone of the trucking industry, known for their robust design that facilitates loading and unloading from the sides and top.
This makes them especially suitable for transporting large equipment, lumber, and steel coils. Their adaptability ensures that flatbeds are a popular choice among many haulers.
Think of flatbed trailers as the open-plan spaces of the trailer world. Without sides or a roof, they offer maximum flexibility for loading and unloading, making them perfect for heavy machinery, construction materials, and oversized items that don’t fit inside enclosed trailers.
However, this open design requires that cargo be weather-resistant or securely covered and fastened.
This guide provides detailed specifications for various cargo and truck trailer types, including flatbed trailers, dry vans, and specialized flat decks like Step Deck Trailers, RGN (Removable Gooseneck Trailers), and Lowboy Trailers. It also covers trailers such as ltl Tri-Temp, PO (Power Only), Tri-axle Flatbeds, Super B Truck and Trailer, Flatbed Stretch Trailers, and Extendable Double Drop Trailers. Additionally, information on Refrigerated trailers, Conestogas, Heavy Haul, Sidekits, Stretch RGN, and Well Deck Lowboy Trailers is included, along with standard truck dimensions, legal flatbed dimensions, maximum freight weights, and over-dimensional trailers.
Understanding semi-tractor-trailer types, trailer lengths, truck trailer heights, and step deck trailer dimensions is crucial. This guide will help you determine the right flatbed trailer type, trailer height, and FTL weight limit and capacity needed to transport your load effectively.
The standard semi truck height in North America, also known as a tractor-trailer combination, is typically around 13 feet 6 inches (4.12 meters) high.
Flatbed trailers are the open-concept homes of the trailer world. With no sides or roof, they offer the ultimate flexibility in loading and unloading goods. They’re ideal for heavy machinery, construction materials, and any oversized items that wouldn’t fit in an enclosed space. The lack of constraints makes them versatile, but it also means your cargo needs to be weather-resistant or properly covered and secured.
Here you will see the specifications listed for cargo and truck trailer types including Flatbed trailer or Dry Vans, and Specialized Trucking flat decks such as Step Deck Trailer, RGN – (Removable Gooseneck Trailer), ltl Tri-Temp, Lowboy Trailers, Dry Vans, PO (Power Only), Tri-axle trailer Flatbed, Super B Truck and Trailer, Flatbed Stretch Trailers, Extendable Double Drop Trailers, Refrigerated, Conestogas, Heavy Haul, Sidekits, Stretch RGN or Removable Goosenecks, Well Deck Lowboy Trailers, types of dry van trailers, standard truck dimensions, legal flatbed dimensions, maximum freight weight and over dimensional trailers.
When understanding semi-tractor-trailer types, and trailer length, height of a truck trailer, what trailer for tractor and step deck trailer dimensions.
This guide will assist you to determine the type of flatbed trailer, truck trailer height and the FTL weight limit and capacity to transport your load.
Flatbed Trailer Types & Flatbed Trailer Length
The most common types of specialized trucking trailers and flatbed trailers include:
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Removable Gooseneck Trailers (RGN)
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Stretch Double Drop Trailers
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Step Deck Trailers
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Conestoga Trailers
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Sidekit Trailers
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Lowboy Trailers
It is important to take note the high bed trailer specification, flatbed trailer sizes, the flatbed weight limit or total weight of the freight as well as the dimensions of a particular type for proper and accurate flat bed & specialized trucking rates.
Trucks and Trailer Types
When discussing flatbed semi trailer deck height, from ground each flatbed truck and its freight is different from the other types so the information that you will be seeing here should be used and treated as your general guideline of trailer weight and flatbed capacity.
Typically, most of the platform trailers mentioned here are capable of handling freight that may even exceed the dimensions and weights for a required permit in a particular province and even premium charges that are needed to be obtained prior to your specific type of shipment.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
It is important to note when understanding trailer sizes that trailers for hauling very in size, dimension and weight capacity of each is based on the corresponding trucking specifications, or axle configuration of a particular semi-tractor and trailer used.
For each trailer types, height and dimensions, corresponding weight and dimension capacity are also listed and the figures are listed approximately.
Thus, the numbers or figures that you will see on the list can be used as an estimated guideline for freight and load planning and understanding semi truck trailer height.
More importantly, these figures should not be used as your basis in making loading calculations that require accuracy and precision.
Legal Axle Weights in BC
Maximum Legal Weight Allowed
The maximum legal axle weight allowed on a highway:
-Single Axle 9 100 kg, any one axle of a Tridem or Tandem Axle Group 9 100 kg.
The difference axle weight between adjacent axles 1 000 kg maximum; the gross weight on the steering axle of an all-wheel-drive three axle truck is 7 500 kg maximum.
The gross weight of any two adjacent axles in a Tridem Axle Group 17 000 kg maximum (except in case of a tridem pole trailer), the sum of the axle loads on the drive axles and jeep axle in a tandem drive truck tractor in combination with a single axle jeep and lowbed semi-trailer 24 000 kg.
The maximum licensed gross vehicle weight of a vehicle or combination of vehicles must not exceed 63 500 kg.
A person may, without a permit, operate the semi-trailer of a 2-vehicle combination with a spread tandem axle, if the inter-axle spacing between the 2 non-steering axles exceeds 185 cm but does not exceed 307 cm, provided that the sum of the axle weight for both axles does not exceed 9 100 kg or a utility trailer type.
A person must not, without an overload permit, drive or operate on a highway when:
- a vehicle or combination of vehicles having a gross weight on the drive axle that is less than 20% of the gross vehicle weight, or
- a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight in excess of 38 000 kg unless the towing vehicle has a tandem or tridem drive axle.
How much weight can a flatbed carry?
What is the flatbed max weight?
48′ flatbed trailer weight capacity
|
Axle Group |
Maximum |
|
Single |
9,100 kg |
|
Tandem |
9,100 kg |
|
Tridem |
17,000 kg |
|
Gross Vehicle Weight |
38,000 kg |
Flatbeds are extremely popular and are widely used because they exude a great sense of versatility.
Generally, when determining a trailer for semi truck, with all the types, a flatbed is used to load the product on its tip, sides, and rear.
With these capabilities, flatbeds have truly become the primary and leading assets of the trucking industry.
This kind of trailer has the capability to carry a maximum legal freight dimension and flat deck trailer weight which are as follows:
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- Flatbed Trailers Maximum freight weight of 48,000 lbs
- Tri-axle Trailers Maximum Freight Weight of 65,000 lbs
While adding a number of axles can increase the limit. To determine the 48′ flatbed trailer weight capacity, keep in mind that the maximum cargo a carrier can unload from each axle is 20,000 lbs.
Flatbed Trailers Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Flatbed Trailer Length- 48 ft – 53 ft trailer height
- Maximum Flatbed Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Maximum Legal Freight Height- 8.5 f
Dry van trailers are enclosed trailers that protect cargo from the elements. They are versatile and can transport a wide range of goods, from electronics and clothing to packaged food and household items. Dry vans are loaded and unloaded from the rear and are commonly used in retail and consumer goods industries.
Dry Van trailers are generally enclosed and are commonly used to carry and protect the freights from the harmful elements of the weather or the roads.
Freights can be loaded on the rear and are commonly loaded using a loading dock.
It is similar to a curtain van and it can be loaded from its side too.
How much does a dry van trailer weigh?
Legal weight and dimensions are:
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Dry Van Maximum freight weight is 42,000 lbs to 45,000 lbs.
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Dry Van Tri-Axle Freight weight is 63,000 lbs
Dry Van Maximum freight dimensions:
Maximum Dry Vans Length- 48 ft – 53 ft
- Maximum Dry Vans Width- 8.2 ft
- Maximum Dry Vans Height- 8 ft
Need to keep your cargo cool? Refrigerated trailers, or reefers, are your best bet. These are the climate-controlled condos of the road, perfect for transporting perishable goods such as food, flowers, and pharmaceuticals. They allow you to maintain a specific temperature throughout your journey, ensuring your sensitive cargo arrives in the same condition it was loaded.
Refrigerated trailers, or reefers, are essential for transporting perishable goods that require temperature control, such as frozen foods and pharmaceuticals. These trailers are equipped with insulation and cooling systems to maintain the required temperature throughout the journey.
Refrigerated trailer is a temperature-controlled type of trailer. Known as a Reefer is generally used for transporting chilled or frozen products. The temperature inside this trailer can be controlled whatever the outside weather is.
Paige Logistics has the refrigerated trailer you need, regardless of the size of your load or the type of cargo you need shipped. Dedicated Transport Services for FCL, LCL, LTL FTL Freight Shipping.
Legal weight and dimensions are:
- Refrigerated Trailers Max freight weight is 42,000 to 45,000 lbs
- Tri-Axle Trailers Max freight weight is 63,000 lbs
Refrigerated Trailers Maximum freight dimension:
- Maximum Refrigerated Trailers Length- 48 ft – 53 ft
- Maximum Refrigerated Trailers Width- 8.2 ft
- Maximum Refrigerated Trailers Height- 8 ft
Lowboy Trailer
A Lowboy Trailer is a non-powered trailer which is commonly used to haul freight. They have a low deck height, making them suitable for transporting heavy-duty construction equipment that exceeds the height limitations of other trailers. They can carry loads up to 80,000 pounds with the proper permits.
These kinds of trailers are generally designed to carry and transport taller goods and items. This means that the items to be carried to a Lowboy Trailer are taller than the legal height of items that are commonly carried by a tractor trailer flat bed.
Our expert advisers will indicate if you need permits for your particular load or type of freight. Basically, a lowboy that has two axles can haul around 40,000 pounds. The maximum weight and dimensions are as follows:
- Lowboys Maximum weight is 40,000 pounds for a 2-axle Lowboy Trailer; an additional weight of up to 95,000 pounds depending on the number of axles used (weight of the trailer and weight of the load added together).
Lowboys Maximum Dimensions:
- Maximum Lowboy Well Length- 24 ft – 29.6 ft
- Maximum Lowboy Well Height- 18 in – 24 in
- Maximum Legal Width- 8.5 ft
- Maximum Legal Freight Height- 11.5 ft – 12 ft
- Maximum Legal Overall Load Height- 14 ft
Step Deck Trailer – Single Drop Trailer
Similar to flatbed trailers, step deck trailers feature a lower deck that allows for the transportation of taller loads that exceed the height limits of standard flatbeds. These trailers are perfect for carrying large machinery and building materials.
When height is a concern, step-deck (or single-drop) and drop-deck (or double-drop) trailers come into play. These trailers are designed to transport tall items that wouldn’t fit under standard overpasses when loaded onto a flatbed. The ‘step’ or ‘drop’ in their design lowers the trailer’s bed, providing the extra clearance needed for tall cargo.
Extendable Double Drop Trailers
Stretch single-drop deck trailers, also known as double-drop trailers, have a low deck that accommodates taller loads while keeping the center of gravity low. This makes them suitable for transporting heavy and oversized equipment.
Single-Drop Deck Trailers
Stretch single-drop deck trailers, also known as double-drop trailers, have a low deck that accommodates taller loads while keeping the center of gravity low. This makes them suitable for transporting heavy and oversized equipment.
When your cargo is too long for a standard flatbed, an extendable flatbed trailer is the solution. These trailers can stretch to accommodate longer loads, such as oversized equipment and construction materials.
Stepdeck Trailers are otherwise known as drop deck types and they are in fact a version of the flatbed trailer design that mainly consists of a bottom and top deck.
These trailers are specifically designed to carry and haul freights that cannot be carried or transported on a standard type of flatbed, which is usually due to height restrictions. A good example is heavy haul and machinery transport
The maximum legal dimensions and weight for a Stepdeck trailer – Stepdeck Trailers are as follows:
-
- Stepdecks Maximum freight weight is 48,000 lbs
Tri-Axle Maximum freight is 65,000 lbs
Stepdecks Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Stepdeck Trailer Length- 48 ft – 53 ft
- Maximum Stepdeck Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Maximum Legal Freight Height- 10 ft
Extendable Flatbed Stretch Trailers
These are extendable flatbeds and are otherwise known as flatbed stretch types.
They are mainly used for carrying loads or freights that are excessively long and cannot be carried by a standard type of trailer.
It is also a type of trailer that provides maximum support, avoiding the possibility of overhanging freight.
The maximum legal dimensions and weight for a Flatbed Stretch Trailer are as follows:
48 foot tractor trailer dimensions are included with extendable flatbeds with maximum freight weight of 43,000 lbs
Tri axle trailer weight limit Canada
- The maximum weight for a tridem axle on a municipal road is 17,000 kg and the maximum GVW is 53,500 kg.
- Tri-Axle trailer maximum freight weight is 65,000 lbs
Extendable Flatbeds Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Extendable Flatbed Trailer Length- 48 ft – 80 ft
- Maximum Extendable Flatbed Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Maximum Extendable Flatbed Legal Freight Height- 8.5 ft
Stretch Single Drop Deck Trailer
Stretch Single Dropdeck Trailers are specifically designed to carry and haul freights that are very long for a standard or traditional step deck due to length restrictions.
It also provides support thus, preventing overhang.
Legal weight and dimensions are as follows:
-
- Stretch Single Drops Max freight weight is 45,000 lbs.
Stretch Single Drops Maximum freight dimensions:
- Max Stretch Single Drop Trailer Length- Main Deck 35 ft – 63 ft
- Max Stretch Single Drop Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Max Stretch Single Drop Legal Freight Height- 10 ft
Stretch Double Drop Deck Trailer
A Stretch Double Drop Trailer is generally used for carrying oversized shipments.
Its lower deck allows you to load products that can be as tall as 10 feet.
It also comes with a so-called “well” a longer piece at the trailer’s back deck and middle portion.
The well usually measures from 25 feet to 29 feet. Legal weight and double drop trailer dimensions are as follows:
- Stretch Double Drops Max freight weight is 58,000 pounds.
Stretch Double Drops Maximum freight dimensions:
- Max Stretch Double Drop Trailer Length- Main Deck 29 ft – 65 ft
- Max Stretch Double Drop Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Max Stretch Double Drop Legal Freight Height- 11.6 ft
Extendable Double Drop Trailers
The Extendable Double Drop Trailer is commonly used to carry and haul freight that come with excessive length and can never be carried by a standard double drop trailer. Depending on the weight, this trailer can either have 2 or 3 axles.
Legal weight and dimensions are:
- Extendable Double Drops Max freight weight is 44,000 lbs
- Tri-Axle Double Drops Max weight is 58,000 lbs
Extendable Double Drops Maximum freight dimensions:
- Max Extendable Double Drop Trailer Length- 29 ft – 50 ft
- Max Extendable Double Drop Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Max Extendable Double Drop Legal Freight Height- 11.6 ft
RGN or Removable Gooseneck Trailers
Removable Gooseneck RGN Trailer is excellent for carrying tall and long freight by heavy haul trucking companies. The trailers feature a detachable front end, allowing the trailer to drop to the ground and create a ramp.
This design makes it easy to load and unload heavy machinery that can drive directly onto the trailer. Depending on the load, RGNs can use multiple axles for added support.
It comes with a detachable front, allowing the trailer to be dropped on the ground in order to create a ramp. Gooseneck trailers rgn extendable is capable of hauling and carrying freights weighing up to 150,000 pounds.
It can go from 3 axles up to 20 plus axles for heavier shipments.
RGN Trailers removable gooseneck are more specialized so they render a more expensive usage.
Legal weight and dimensions of a Removable Gooseneck Trailers RGN are as follows:
- RGN’s Minimum freight weight dependent on axle configuration is 44,000 to 150,000 lbs.
9 Axle Trailer
Equipment Dimensions:
- Combined length: 103′
- Lower deck length: 25′
- Trailer width: 8’6″
- Deck height: 18″ to 24″
- Empty weight: 65 000 Lbs
Commodity Dimensions
- Length: 25′
- Width: 8’6
- Height: 11’8″ to 12′
- Weight: 105 000 lbs maximum
Removable Gooseneck – RGN Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Removable Gooseneck – RGN Well Length- Main Deck 29 ft
- Maximum Removable Gooseneck – RGN Well Width- 8.5 ft
- Maximum Removable Gooseneck – RGN Legal Freight Height- 11.6 ft
Stretch RGN
The Stretch Removable Gooseneck Trailer is designed to carry and haul freight that are too long to be carried by a standard type of RGN. Depending on the weight of the freight, axles may range from 3 axles or higher.
Stretch RGN trailers combine the features of RGNs with an extendable deck, making them ideal for transporting long and heavy loads that standard RGNs cannot accommodate. They are commonly used in the construction and heavy equipment industries.
This means that the heavier the load is the more axles are to be used. Legal weight and dimensions are:
- Length:
- The main deck length can extend up to 65 feet.
- The total trailer length can reach up to 80 feet or more, depending on the number of axles and the specific trailer design.
- Width:
- The maximum legal width is generally 8.5 feet (102 inches).
- Height:
- The height of the load on the main deck (also called the well) typically should not exceed 11.5 feet, but this can vary depending on state regulations and permits.
Weight:
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):
- The maximum allowable weight can vary significantly depending on the number of axles used. With the right configuration, Stretch RGNs can legally haul up to 160,000 pounds or more.
- Typically, a Stretch RGN trailer with three axles can haul around 42,000 to 50,000 pounds.
- Additional axles increase the weight capacity, with some configurations allowing for up to 20 axles.
State-Specific Regulations:
- Permits:
- Oversized loads often require special permits, which vary by state. These permits specify the allowable dimensions and weights for the load being transported.
- Axle Weight Limits:
- Axle weight limits can differ by state, but typically, they are around 20,000 pounds per axle for standard loads. Special configurations and permits can increase this limit.
Special Considerations:
- Route Planning:
- Transporting oversized loads requires careful route planning to avoid low bridges, weight-restricted roads, and other obstacles.
- Escort Vehicles:
- Depending on the size of the load and state regulations, escort vehicles may be required to ensure safe transport.
Stretch RGN trailers are essential for hauling oversized and overweight loads that standard trailers cannot accommodate. Their ability to extend in length and support heavy weights with multiple axle configurations makes them indispensable in industries like construction and heavy equipment transport. However, transporting such loads requires adherence to legal weight and dimension limits, often necessitating special permits and careful planning.
Stretch RGN or Removable Goosenecks Maximum freight weight is 45,000 pounds to 150,000 pounds or more.
Stretch RGN Maximum freight dimensions:
- Max Stretch RGN Length in Well- Main Deck 29 ft to 65 ft
- Max Stretch RGN Trailer Width- 8.5 ft
- Max Stretch RGN Legal Freight Height- 11.6 ft
Conestoga Trailer
Conestoga trailers come with a rolling tarp system that is used to cover and uncover the trailer and gives protection to the freight.
When shipping with a conestoga trailer, they can come as regular flats or step decks.
- Conestoga Trailers Max freight weight is 42,000 lbs to 65,000 lbs.
- Various configurations such as step decks and tri-axles
Conestoga Trailers Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Dry Vans Length- 48 ft – 53 ft
- Maximum Dry Vans Width- 8.2 ft
- Maximum Dry Vans Height- 8 ft
Side Kit Trailers
The Sidekit trailer is equipped with a panel made from either plywood or fiberglass and commonly used for carrying goods that can never be packaged or crated.
-
- Sidekit Trailers Max freight weight is 42,000 lbs to 58,000 lbs.
Sidekit Trailers Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Sidekit Trailers Length- 48 ft – 53 ft
- Maximum Sidekit Trailers Width- 8.2 ft
- Maximum Sidekit Trailers Height- 8.6 ft
Super B Trailers
The Super B trailer is equipped 2 Trailers. 32′ Lead and a 28′ Pup.
Super B trucks are fantastic for shipping lumber and heavy volume commodities. With 5-6 axles, they can carry up to 95,000 lbs.
- Super B Trailers Max freight weight is 95,000 lbs
- Super B Trailers Maximum freight dimensions:
- Maximum Super B Trailer’s Length- 32 ft
- Maximum Super B Trailer’s Pup – 28 ft
- Maximum Super B Trailer’s Height- 8.6 ft
Power Only Trailer
The power only trailer is a special type that is generally used in towing various types of trailers, and it usually comes with a fifth wheel hitch, pintle hitch, and ball and hitch.
Only four axles are allowed when the freight is Maximum Power Only freight weight and dimensions depend on the type of trailer that is being towed / hauled (provincial requirements should be strictly followed).
Specialized Trailer
- Conestoga Trailers: Offer the flexibility of a flatbed with the protection of a dry van, thanks to a rolling tarp system.
- Lowboy Trailers: Sit very low to the ground, making them ideal for hauling heavy equipment like bulldozers and industrial machinery.
- Auto Haulers: Designed to transport vehicles safely and efficiently, whether you’re moving a classic car or a fleet of vehicles.
- Specialized trailers are specifically made for certain types of freights and are commonly used with perimeter, double gooseneck, and dolly trailers.
- Specialized Trucking Trailers max freight weight is 200,000 pounds or more.
- Maximum Specialized Trucking Trailers dimensions (depends on the regulations imposed by the province)
We at Paige Logistics company in Canada offer a wide range of equipment options in order to meet your needs in truckload trailer types requirements, and specifications of our customers.
Aside from our strategic partnerships timely door to door service, we also cover various aspects of a project such as permitting, routing, clearances, inspections, and tarps.
Asking the Broker, 3PL, drayage shippers in USA flatbed carrier for the shipping terms precise height measurements of the truck in question and determining if this could provide a problem when loading your merchandise is recommended. When focusing on LCL shipping LTL shipping services, LTL shipping services the following questions come to mind:
What does it mean to “turn the skid”?
“Turning the skid” is a loading technique that maximizes space utilization and allows for a higher number of skids to be loaded into a truck.
To “turn the skid,” use a forklift to move the pallet from the right side of the trailer to the left side of the trailer. Place the skid next to it lengthwise (parallel to the skid stringers) on the right, leaving it no deeper than 42 inches from the back of the vehicle. In the following row, place the skids from left to right, with the first skid oriented lengthwise and the second skid oriented widthwise. Thus, the area is utilized more efficiently.
To employ this method, the skids must be manufactured as “4-way skids” or “4-way pallets” so that forklift transport is possible from all directions. The standard 40″ x 48″ dimensions of a hardwood pallet permit loading of two pallets side by side in the majority of trailers.
Some international containers and refrigerated trailers may be too broad for ordinary skids, necessitating specialized skids. Turning skids also provides greater protection against shifting during shipping than straight loading when shipping from Canada to California.
How much weight can a flatbed carry?
Or
What is the flatbed max weight?
The flatbed weight limit top out at 48,000 pounds (24 tons).
When selecting the right trailer is about understanding your cargo’s specific needs and how different trailers can meet those needs. Whether you’re a seasoned logistics professional or a small business owner venturing into the world of cargo transportation for the first time, the key is to arm yourself with knowledge. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each trailer type, you can make choices that save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
When hitting the road, safety and resilience are non-negotiables. Whether you’re aiding a friend’s relocation or transporting materials for your business, having the right tools is paramount. Unbeknownst to many, there’s a plethora of trailer options designed to cater to your specific needs. But how do you discern the perfect fit? It all boils down to one pivotal question:
What are you transporting?
Naturally, a trailer tailored for appliances won’t suffice for moving your vehicle. Perhaps you crave the security of an enclosed trailer, but what if your cargo surpasses its spatial confines? Beyond this initial query, unraveling your trailer selection entails addressing ancillary considerations, as we’ll delve into below.
Once you’ve pinpointed your cargo and potential future hauls, you can navigate through the maze of preferences, features, and price points of various trailer types. Enter the enclosed trailer—the fortress on wheels. Its hallmark feature? Complete containment. Your valuables, from appliances to workout gear, remain snug within, shielded from the perils of the open road—a feature absent in other trailer variants.
Available in a gamut of sizes, the enclosed trailer is optimal for transporting small to medium-sized equipment, with customizable add-ons to boot. These compact trailers reign supreme for traversing long distances, courtesy of their enclosed cabin and supplementary features—an ideal companion for ferrying your dirt bike to your off-road haven!
Pros:
- Safety and security ensured
- Heavy-duty door options
- Convenient rear ramp access
- Optional LED lighting
- An array of color choices
- V-nose design for enhanced aerodynamics
- Hauling capacity considerations
Cons:
- Space limitations—cannot accommodate oversized cargo
- Pricing factors—safety features come at a premium
- Restricted visibility due to trailer obstruction
Price:
The cost varies based on size and axle count:
- $3,000-$5,000 for a small enclosed trailer (6×12)
- $6,000-$8,000 for a medium enclosed trailer (7×16)
- $8,500 and above for a large enclosed trailer (8×32)
On the flip side, flatbed utility trailers reign as the ubiquitous workhorses of the trailer realm. Their versatility is unmatched, capable of accommodating personal effects and hefty equipment alike. Among utility trailers, two variants stand out:
- Tube Utility Trailers
- Angle Utility Trailers
The differentiating factor lies in their weight-bearing construction. Angle utility trailers suffice for loads up to 2,000 lbs, offering a budget-friendly option for lighter hauls. Conversely, tube utility trailers boast a beefier capacity, ideal for heavier loads but command a higher price tag. For further assistance in your purchase journey, refer to this comprehensive buying guide!
Pros:
- Varied gate sizes and options
- Compatible with select car models
- Spare tire mount option available
- Choice of treated wood or metal flooring
- Affordability (depending on size and style)
- Enhanced fuel efficiency due to reduced weight
- Ability to haul irregularly shaped cargo thanks to open design
Cons:
Security concerns—responsibility falls on the owner to secure belongings
Susceptible to weather elements—exposure to rain may lead to wet cargo
Lower durability compared to other trailers
Price:
Prices vary based on size and load capacity:
- $1,400-$1,900 for a small angle utility trailer
- $1,900-$2,500 for a medium angle utility trailer
- $2,500-$3,100 for a small tube utility trailer
- $3,100-$4,100 for a medium-large tube utility trailer
In summary, selecting the right trailer hinges on understanding your cargo needs and aligning them with the features and costs of available options. With the right trailer in tow, you can hit the road with confidence, knowing your cargo is in safe hands in a 53 trailer.
Learn about the other systems in detail: Machinery transport Yukon to USA Oversized Load vs Wide Load Specialized Transport Over-dimensional Freight Machinery Transport Heavy Haul Transportation Heavy Haul Trucking Construction Logistics Worldwide Shipping Logistics Trucking Vancouver BC Flatbed Flatbed Trucks Steel Coil Transportation Tarp a Flatbed Trailer Vancouver Flatbed Transport Trucking Services Super B Train Conestoga trailer
How much mass can a vehicle transport?
Without a specific permit, the combined weight of the tractor and trailer cannot exceed 80,000 pounds. Typically, a loaded trailer might weigh up to 45,000 pounds, leaving 35,000 pounds for the weight of the tractor. Long-haul stretch tractor-trailers have been recorded to weigh in excess of 35,000 pounds; consequently, the trailers they can tow must weigh significantly less, say 40,000 pounds (or 43,500 lbs. maximum.) According to DOT requirements, weights must be distributed uniformly over all axels of a trailer, so that no axel is “overweight.” Weights must be accurately determined, and FTL cargoes with gross weight considerations must be reserved in advance.
What are a 53-foot trailer dimensions and weight?
The answer depends on the items being shipped. We know that the maximum weight that can be loaded into a dry van (53-foot trailer weight limit) is between 43,000 and 45,000 pounds, and that the maximum weight that can be loaded into a Reefer is 43,500 pounds.
How many pallets can fit in a 53 foot trailer?
On LTL trailers, such as 28′ puppies, the inside height can range from 107″ to 110″, while the door height remains constant at 104″. Particularly with all moving services, It is prudent to be cautious of the height at which boxes are stacked on skids.
What is the optimal shipping pallet size for loading?
If the product being transported is lighter, the skid height can be increased. The pallet size you choose should be sufficient not just for the interior height of the vehicle, but also for the door clearance. This is due to the fact that the forklift must elevate the skid at least an inch off the ground and into the truck.
What is 53' flatbed trailer weight capacity?
Some 53 ft trailer’s have interior heights that range from 110″ to 114″ and dip in a few places. 105″ is the height of the door on these trailers.
What is the definition of floor loading?
If the freight forwarder, shipper and/or receiver are cooperative, floor loading or hand packing a truck can result in higher cost savings. Obviously, only lightweight cargo may be transported in this manner. Still, there is a trade-off to consider: while packing more saves money, loading and unloading the freight by hand may take longer.
What are the standard trailer sizes in trucking?
Trailer Sizes
| Trailer Type | Length | Width | Height | Max Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | 48 – 53 ft | 8.5 ft | 9.2 ft | 45,000 lbs |
| Refrigerated | 48 – 53 ft | 8.5 ft | ~8.5 ft | 42,000 – 45,000 lbs |
| Flatbed | 48 – 53 ft | 8.2 – 8.5 ft | ~8 ft | 48,000 lbs |
| Step Deck | 48 – 53 ft | 8.5 ft | ~10 ft | 48,000 lbs |
| Double-Drop |
~29 ft |
8.5 ft | Up to ~11.5 ft | Up to ~45,000 lbs |
| Lowboy |
~24 – ~29.6 ft |
8.5 ft | Up to ~11.5 ft | ~40,000 lbs |
What is the drop deck trailer height?
10 feet or 120″
How much weight can a 53' dry van hold?
The weight falls between 42,000 and 45,000 pounds.
How wide is a 53 foot semi trailer?
8.5 feet or 102″ wide.
What is the height of a flatbed trailer?
While the standard height for flatbed trailers is 8.5 feet, specific designs and configurations can lead to slight variations. a standard flatbed trailer typically measures 8.5 feet (102 inches) from the ground to the top of the trailer itself. However, other variations exist, with certain models being around 5 feet high. It’s important to note that the maximum height of freight loaded onto these trailers is generally limited to 8 feet 4 inches.
Author, Founder & CEO at Paige Logistics Ltd. → has over 20 years of experience in freight logistics, specializing in supply chain management and efficient transportation solutions. His expertise spans working with Fortune 500 companies, leading large-scale international shipping projects, and optimizing freight strategies for diverse industries, from aerospace, manufacturing and agriculture.
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