Did you know that 13 million trucks operate in the U.S. according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics?
That’s a whole lot of trucks. From big rigs to dump trucks, every type of product that needs to travel from one place to another goes on a truck at some point.
Each truck type is unique, depending on the cargo it is hauling, and as a driver, knowing the different types of trucks on the road is important.
So, what are the most common types of freight trucks? Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.
Different Types of Freight Trucks
Freight trucks are an essential part of the transportation of goods and materials for businesses throughout the world.
There are common types of freight trucks that are used regularly.
Dry Van
A dry van truck is a large, box-like vehicle used to move large shipments of goods from one place to another. The van has a large cargo capacity, typically ranging from 16,000 to 24,000 pounds. It is outfitted with a refrigeration unit and a locking system for securing valuables.
This type of truck is ideal for moving goods that require a dry and cool environment, such as food products, furniture, and electronics. Drivers often find dry vans easier to operate than other types of trucks, due to their simple maneuverability and interior space.
A common practice in the transport industry is to purchase used or refurbished dry vans at a cheaper rate, to maximize profits on transport jobs. Secure delivery of goods and materials is the cornerstone of this type of hauling. It has reliability and safety are a priority to the driver and the customer.
Flatbed
Flatbed freight trucks are some of the most versatile options in the industry. They are large, chassis-mounted platforms that are used to move cargo of many shapes and sizes. The flat surface area without sides makes them easy to access and load.
Additionally, they can be modified to meet any specific needs of the cargo being moved. Flatbed trucks are typically used to deliver large, bulky items. This includes such as construction materials, agricultural equipment, and any other cargo that is too large to fit in a standard cargo box.
Many companies also utilize flatbeds to transport heavy equipment, especially in the mining and construction industries. This type of truck is also ideal for carrying oversized items like boats and vehicles.
Step Deck
Featuring a flatbed trailer that has an extendable platform on either side, this type of transport is capable of carrying anything from large machinery to cargo container loads depending on the preferences of the customer. Step Deck trailers provide far more stability than open flatbed trailers. It has extendable decks that can be adjusted to the size and weight of the load.
Raised rails are available to secure the load to the trailer to further ensure safety during the transport process. Step Deck is also much more versatile in terms of being able to transport heavy hauls not suitable for dry van trailers.
Removable Gooseneck (RGN)
It is a standard flatbed trailer consisting of both a bed and a gooseneck, with the additional feature of being removable. This means that the head, or gooseneck, is separate from the trailer and can be detached or loaded on and off with ease. This is an advantage as it allows for more versatile hauling, as the RGN can be used to carry both wide and tall loads.
Furthermore, the detachable nature of the gooseneck can also be an asset when reducing the height of the total load. It can help to clear overpasses or other road obstacles. The RGN is a popular choice amongst transport operators as it is incredibly easy to maintain and load goods. It is also the ideal trailer for many freight transportation needs.
Tanker
Tankers are one of the most common types of freight trucks as they are used to transport and store liquids like oil, gas, chemicals, and bulk liquids. They are usually semi-trailers mounted on the back of a tractor unit and can carry up to about 60,000 gallons of cargo. Tankers are divided into three categories based on the type of products they transport: liquid cargo, dry goods, and gas or liquefied gas.
As a safety measure, they are also fitted with special safety tanks to prevent any spills and leaks. They can be loaded directly from the loading dock of a trucking facility to the destination, or they can be utilized for cross-country hauling. The performance and capacity of a tanker truck are determined by the type of load being transported, the distance being transported and the type of terrain being traversed.
Examining the Benefits of Choosing the Right Freight Truck
By selecting the correct type of truck, you can reduce operational costs, increase efficiency, and enhance customer service. The right truck will improve safety as well, with features such as ample room for maneuvering and cargo restraints, with side guards and compliant lighting systems. Additionally, the right truck can help reduce the costs associated with hiring drivers, as it’s designed to handle specific types of freight.
Getting the Right Freight Truck for Your Needs
When it comes to getting the right freight truck for your needs, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you need to get clear on your needs and think about the volume of freight you will be transporting, along with any other requirements such as fuel efficiency or space. You also need to consider your budget – freight trucks can be expensive, and you want to make sure you get a good deal for the best car for your needs.
Finally, it’s important to learn about domestic freight, and whether the car you are looking at has any regional restrictions or licensing requirements. Researching the market and looking at reviews is a great way to find the right truck for your needs, and make sure you get the most out of your freight truck.
Different Types of Freight Trucks You Need to Know
Freight trucks are crucial to the logistics of moving goods from point A to point B. They come in many varieties, from straight trucks to semi-trailers to intermodal containers.
No matter the industry, freight trucks are essential for efficient and safe transportation. Learn more about these trucks and the logistics companies that provide them to ensure that your goods make it safely to their destination!
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