7 Types of Freight Trucks & Hauling

Trucks play a crucial role in the transportation of goods in a number of different industries.

However, the transportation requirements vary depending on the type of cargo. To meet these diverse needs, different classifications of trucks are employed, ensuring efficient movement of goods throughout the country.

There are a wide variety of trucks available in the United States, including semi-trailers, flatbeds, step decks, vans, reefers, box trucks, and tankers. Let's delve into these truck types and their specifics.

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Semi-Trailer

Semi-trailers, also known as semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, or big rigs, are widely known trucks that are often seen on the road. hey do not have a front axle or wheels and are supported by a hitch or fifth-wheel coupling. They are capable of towing one or two additional trailers to accommodate additional cargo.

Semi-trailers are not only suitable for the transportation of consumer goods but are also excellent for the transportation of raw materials. Due to their adaptability, they are well suited to transporting goods over long distances, especially because one semi-trailer can tow multiple trailers.

‍Flatbed Trucks

A flatbed truck is a type of vehicle that carries goods on an open, flat trailer - as opposed to a closed trailer. These trucks are especially good for hauling oversized loads. Not only can these trucks haul oversized loads, but they are easier to load and unload than other freight trucks. To secure cargo on a flatbed trailer, people typically use straps.

Flatbed trucks are ideal for hauling construction materials, vehicles, heavy machinery, oversized cargo, and even houses thanks to their impressive load-bearing capacity and versatile cargo space.

‍Step Deck

Similar to a flatbed truck, a step deck is an open trailer, however, it can carry taller cargo because it is designed for that specific purpose. Step decks, also known as drop decks or lowboy trailers, have two levels. The bottom level is designed to give more clearance for tall or oversized cargo. Consequently, they are simpler to load and unload.

With a trailer with a step deck, you can not only transport large and tall items without additional permits but also place more cargo on the other deck.

‍Dry Van

A dry van is a type of semi-truck that doesn't have temperature control for its trailer. A dry van is completely enclosed by four walls and has a roof to protect goods from the outside elements. Many dry van trailers are 53 feet in length and can accommodate different types of freight. New truck drivers often operate dry van trucks because they're common and only require a Class A CDL.

Dry van trucks commonly haul boxed cargo and pallets, which is why almost everything you have in your house was at one point transported by a dry van--this includes furniture, non-perishable food, and clothing.

Reefer Trucks:

Reefer trucks, also known as refrigerated trucks, are cargo vehicles designed to maintain a controlled temperature environment for perishable goods. These trucks are primarily utilized for transporting food items to grocery stores and warehouses. The temperature of the refrigeration unit, which is typically located at the front of the trailer or above the truck's cab, needs to be continuously monitored by the driver. This ensures that the perishable items remain fresh and prevents spoilage.

Reefer trucks are essential for shipping items that require cooling, including food products, medical supplies, chemicals, and hazardous materials. These goods have a limited shelf life and can quickly deteriorate if not kept at the appropriate temperature. Therefore, reefer trucks are crucial for time-sensitive cargo deliveries.

Box Trucks:

Box trucks are characterized by their box-shaped cargo compartments and are smaller in size compared to other freight truck types. The cargo box of a box truck is directly mounted on the frame. Typically, the cargo area is separate from the driver's cabin. These trucks are ideal for making local deliveries as they can easily maneuver through small streets and tight corners.

Box trucks are a popular choice for short-distance freight transportation, such as delivering home appliances, furniture, last-mile deliveries, food delivery services, and even moving services.

Tanker Trucks:

Tanker trucks come in two main types: dry bulk tankers and liquid tankers. Dry bulk tankers are used for transporting loose, dry goods such as flour or sand, while liquid tankers are employed for transporting liquids and gases. Unlike boxy trailers, tankers feature round tanks that are attached to the back of a semi-truck. Operating these trucks can be challenging as drivers need to prevent excessive sloshing of the liquid cargo. The tanks in tanker trucks often have compartments to minimize sloshing and allow for the transportation of multiple loads. Additionally, the tanks can be pressurized, insulated, or refrigerated, depending on the requirements of the cargo.

Dry bulk tankers are specifically designed for materials that cannot be transported through other means, including construction materials (e.g., sand, powders) and bulk foods (e.g., sugar, grain). Liquid tankers can transport various types of liquids, ranging from beverages like milk or wine to chemicals like gasoline.

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By Stuart Nelson