Pros and Cons of Different Trailer Types

17 Jun.,2024

 

Pros and Cons of Different Trailer Types

When shipping freight over-the-road (OTR), shippers can choose from various freight trailer types: dry van, flatbed, refrigerated, and more. Each transportation mode has advantages and disadvantages for all shippers and carriers hauling freight. Depending on your shipping needs and freight type, you should consider a few options before deciding which one will work best for you.

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There are several types of trailers, with the three most used being dry van trailers, flatbed trailers, and refrigerated trailers, also known as reefer trailers. Learning more about these main types of trailers will help you better understand freight shipping and find the best option for you.

What are the pros and cons of trailer types for shippers?

Dry Van Trailer

Dry van trailers look like enclosed boxes made to move &#;dry&#; cargo. The sizes of the dry van trailers vary, but the most common are the 48 and 53-foot trailers on the road. These trailers are the safest equipment for the freight and can hold up to 45,000 lbs. (about twice the weight of a school bus). Besides being the safest, dry van trailers are also the most common truck used in transportation.

Pros

  • Dry van trailers can transport most types of freight. Therefore, a dry van trailer is an excellent option if you are not shipping hazardous, oversized, or perishable goods.
  • Your freight is secure and protected from severe weather, damage, and theft during transit.
  • Many dry van trucking companies provide regional and short hauls in addition to long hauls, so you have flexibility in scheduling your shipments and choosing routes.
  • A dry van is efficient. The trailer can consolidate a range of materials into one shipment.

Cons

  • Dry van trailers are in high demand, so finding the capacity, you need for your freight can be challenging.
  • These trailers can&#;t transport perishables, flowers, fine art, or food.
  • The most common use for dry vans is moving valuable goods like electronics, so these trucks can often be an object of theft.
  • These trailers have a smaller capacity due to the different lengths, weight, and height requirements.

Flatbed Trailer

Flatbeds are open trailers for moving oversized freight like heavy machinery and large equipment. There are several types of flatbeds; however, they are all primarily flat platforms without cover and sides attached to the truck where cargo is loaded and fixed. You can pack your goods from different angles, the trailer&#;s top, side, and rear. There are many options for flatbed trailers, but some of the most common types are the standard flatbed, step deck, or double drop.

Pros

  • Flatbed trailers are easy to load, and the shipper is not responsible for fixing and securing the load to a platform.
  • The flatbed is the best option for you if you deliver bulky loads or freight of irregular shapes.
  • They provide much easier upkeep due to the open deck of the flatbed. Due to the openness, there is also no need to repair any walls or roofs.

Cons

  • Transporting oversized loads requires specific hauling and maneuvering skills, leading to high rates.
  • The requirement is to secure loads properly since poorly connected freight is a threat to a road accident.
  • Flatbed trailers expose loads to the elements, so moving freight during severe weather conditions can negatively affect the shipment.
  • Stricter regulations come with using the flatbed trailer. Failure to comply with the rules could lead to fines and a license suspension.

Refrigerated Trailer

Refrigerated trucks look like dry vans but have temperature regulation tools. These trailers have climate control to accommodate certain temperatures, so your freight remains in the required temperature range during transit. In addition, the temperatures in a refrigerated trailer never increase or decrease, so your shipped items will stay at the same temperature you choose for the entire time.

Pros

  • Refrigerated trucks are perfect for food and beverage shippers, moving flowers, and art pieces.
  • Refrigerated trucks can move temperature-sensitive and &#;dry&#; freight, so you can combine different cargo types in one load if needed.
  • The pick-up and delivery are more straightforward than other methods of transportation. Different grocery stores have organized and well-run loading docks, making the process less stressful.
  • The trailer protects the freight from weather conditions, theft, spoilage, and damage.

Cons

  • Products can spoil when trailer damage occurs, or the cooling system breaks down.
  • The loading process can take a long time due to pre-cooling requirements. The unloading process can also be a time consumer.
  • If you don&#;t have access to tracking trailer conditions, you won&#;t know what&#;s happening to the shipment.
  • Spoiled freight. A breakdown in the temperature window can cost money, but grocery stores and businesses will not accept items that are not the correct temperature or sour.

What are the pros and cons of trailer types for carriers?

Dry Van Trailer

Pros

  • Dry van trailers are versatile and used for all kinds of freight, ranging from non-perishable food to building materials.
  • Cargo is secure and protected from bad weather, damage, and theft, so you don&#;t need to use straps, chains, or another cover.
  • &#;Drop and Hook&#; (drop an empty trailer, hook up to a loaded one) &#; load mode will save drivers time and effort and allow them to spend less time unloading and loading.
  • Many dry van trucking companies provide regional and short hauls in addition to long hauls.

Cons

  • Sometimes, a driver must help handle freight during the unloading process.
  • Waiting at the dock for load/unload will consume a carrier&#;s time and money.
  • Hardwood floors in most dry van trailers are vulnerable to moisture from freight or open doors, limiting the trailer&#;s life span.
  • Dry van drivers earn, on average, 20% less pay per hour compared to flatbed drivers, so turnover is high.

Flatbed Trailer

Pros

  • Flatbed drivers earn more per mile than most other trailer types, which helps driver turnover.
  • There are many opportunities for pick-up and delivery each week.
  • Flatbed drivers don&#;t need to back into docks and unload the freight.
  • The demand for flatbed drivers&#; unique skills is high, often leading to high rates.

Cons

  • Transporting oversized loads requires particular hauling and maneuvering skills.
  • The flatbed driver has a responsibility to secure loads properly. Poorly secured freight is a threat to the driver and other motorists.
  • Climbing over oversized loads to attach chains and straps can be dangerous.
  • Hauling and securing oversized loads is extremely complicated during severe weather conditions.

Refrigerated Trailer

Pros

  • There is always a demand for fresh products and a refrigerated truck to transport them.
  • Reefer trailers can easily haul both refrigerated and dry goods.
  • Refrigerated trailers haul long, coast-to-coast distances, which can mean more profit.
  • Freight gets protected from weather conditions, theft, spoilage, and damage.

Cons

  • Refrigerated truck drivers have additional responsibilities like cleaning the trailer after every load, controlling the thermometer and cooling equipment, and filling the second gas tank with fuel.
  • There&#;s constant noise from the motor.
  • Long wait time on shipping docks for loading or unloading is typical.
  • Breakdowns lead to unavoidable product spoilage.

PLS Logistics and our Carrier Network

We dedicate our time to making a fast and reliable marketplace and network for all our carriers. We&#;re the company for you if you&#;re looking for an efficient way to boost your network. Your business will soar when you join us today!

It&#;s essential to consider all possibilities whenever you decide which trailer might be the best fit for your shipment. PLS Logistics supports all trailer types with a network of over 55,000 carriers, making us the number one flatbed 3PL in the country.

Get a quote today for your trailer needs!

10 Reasons Super Sleeper Semi Trucks are Worth the ...

What is a Super Sleeper Semi Truck?
What are the Benefits of a Super Sleeper?
What are the Top Brands in Super Sleeper Semis? How Much Do They Cost?
Stryker Supports Truckers

As super sleeper semi-trucks continue to evolve, life as a long-haul trucker gets better and better. These big rigs, equipped with top-of-the-line technology and luxury accommodations, redefine the trucking experience for drivers around the globe. From advanced fuel efficiency to spacious, comfortable cabins, super sleeper semi-trucks cater to the modern trucker&#;s every need.

Comfort and convenience on the road are no longer a dream but a reality with these trucks. Imagine having a small apartment inside your vehicle with a bed, kitchen, and a water tank for showers. However, it&#;s not just about comfort. These trucks are also about efficiency and safety with advanced features such as lane-keeping assist and automatic braking. Welcome to the future of long-haul trucking, where the super sleeper semi-truck reigns supreme.

What is a Super Sleeper Semi Truck?


Peterbilt 567 Ultra Cab with ARI 168&#; Sleeper.

A super sleeper semi-truck is a unique heavy-duty vehicle that combines a traditional semi-truck&#;s powerful hauling capabilities with a home&#;s comfortable amenities. Often utilized by long-haul truck drivers who spend numerous days on the road, super sleeper semis are designed to make their extended journeys more comfortable and efficient. These trucks have larger cabins, providing more space for resting, cooking, and even personal entertainment, offering a more homelike environment than standard sleeper trucks.

The critical feature distinguishing super sleeper semi trucks is their expansive and comfortable sleeping compartments. Unlike regular sleeper cabs, super-sleepers offer full-size beds, often with additional features like memory foam mattresses and high-quality bedding. This emphasis on comfort ensures that drivers get a good night&#;s sleep, which is critical for maintaining alertness and safety on long trips.

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Image source: https://www.legacysleepers.com

Super sleeper semis also come with other amenities designed to make life on the road more convenient and enjoyable. These may include a compact kitchen with appliances like a refrigerator and microwave, a small dining area, a restroom with a shower, and even a hot tub. Some super sleepers also feature entertainment options like a television and stereo system. A super sleeper semi-truck is a rolling home, offering drivers all the comforts they would typically find in a residential setting but on the move.


Image source: https://www.legacysleepers.com

What are the Benefits of a Super Sleeper?

Super sleepers are considerably more expensive than day cabs, so there must be reasons why trucking business owners are willing to part with hundreds of thousands of dollars to acquire them. Here are ten of those reasons:

1. Reduced Downtime

On long-haul journeys, drivers can rest, eat, and refresh without the need to locate restaurants or motels on the road. Sleeper cabs can increase overall productivity by providing truckers with ample comfort, reducing fatigue, and increasing their driving hours.

Additionally, the super sleeper allows driving teams to function at peak efficiency. Teams of two or three drivers can alternate driving and resting while keeping the truck on the road longer. Overall, this design maximizes driving time, improves efficiency, and aids in adherence to strict delivery schedules, all while ensuring the driver&#;s comfort during extended periods on the road.

2. Safety on the Road

Super sleeper trucks have advanced safety features that significantly reduce the risk of road accidents. For instance, these high-tech vehicles often include collision avoidance systems, which utilize radar and camera technology to detect potential threats on the road and automatically apply the brakes if needed. They also frequently incorporate lane departure warning systems, alerting drivers if they unintentionally drift from their lane.

Super sleeper trucks may include stability control systems, reducing the risk of rollovers by automatically adjusting the brakes and engine power when it detects instability. Many of these vehicles also feature fatigue warning systems, using facial recognition technology to monitor drivers&#; alertness levels and providing warnings if they appear tired. These cutting-edge safety features protect truck drivers and contribute to the overall safety of all road users.

3. Comfort

The comfort offered by custom sleepers has revolutionized the long-haul trucking industry. These trucks have spacious sleeper berths with big bunks, providing comfort and convenience for truck drivers during long trips. Advanced climate control systems and noise isolation features offer a restful environment that mimics the comforts of home. Integrated kitchenettes, ample storage space, and sophisticated entertainment systems further add to the livability of these mobile accommodations.

4. Better Health

Truck driving often brings health issues from poor eating habits and an erratic sleep schedule. When a driver depends on truckstop meals and gas station snacks, health suffers. An ongoing poor sleep schedule also contributes to health concerns. The super sleeper offers a realistic way for drivers to develop healthier habits. Cooking on the road offers many options for healthy eating. And drivers can create a consistent, comfortable sleep space for better rest. Though super sleepers cost more upfront, the benefits of improved health are immeasurable.

5. Fuel Efficiency

Super sleeper semi-trucks are designed for fuel efficiency to offset their larger size. Maximizing aerodynamics in sleeper design is critical for fuel cost savings in fleets. Take the T680 Advantage 76-in. sleeper, for instance, with its refined fairings and &#;kick-out&#; partial fairing, streamlining airflow around the trailer. This innovative design allows for an optional under-sleeper fuel fill, moving fuel tanks forward and reducing the trailer gap and wheelbase. Furthermore, opting for a shorter height sleeper, like the Kenworth T680 76-in. mid-roof sleeper, can significantly decrease aerodynamic drag. This shorter height results in up to a significant 5% fuel economy savings for tanker and flatbed applications, contingent on load conditions

6. Durability

Super sleeper trucks are renowned for their exceptional durability. Manufacturers craft them from high-quality materials and advanced engineering techniques, enabling them to withstand intensive and prolonged usage, even in harsh weather conditions and rugged terrains. Their robust construction and regular maintenance ensure longevity, making them a reliable choice for long-haul trucking.

7. Resale Value

Extended sleeper trucks often hold their value better than standard models, which can be beneficial at the time of resale. Extended sleeper trucks&#; additional features and comforts make them highly desirable, particularly for long-haul drivers. As such, they often command higher prices in the used truck market. However, it&#;s essential to understand that the truck&#;s overall condition, mileage, and maintenance history also significantly determine resale value.

8. Versatility

Sleeper trucks maximize efficiency for long-haul drivers with modern amenities, allowing the cabs to serve as mobile offices, rest spaces, and transport vehicles. Incorporating living space within a work vehicle also demonstrates a consideration of driver comfort and well-being, leading to improved job satisfaction and productivity.

9. Driver Retention

Super sleepers offer truck drivers greater comfort during long-haul journeys. These spacious compartments, equipped with a bed, kitchen, and bathroom, create a more comfortable environment for drivers on the road. The enhanced comfort and convenience that super sleepers provide can significantly improve a driver&#;s work-life balance, thereby enhancing job satisfaction. As a result, companies that equip their fleets with super sleepers often have better driver retention rates, as drivers are more likely to remain with a company that prioritizes their comfort and well-being.

10. Regulatory Compliance

All business owners strive to meet deadlines and maximize profitability while also complying with regulations about driver rest periods. Super sleepers make stops more efficient and restful, helping businesses and owner-operators stay compliant and avoid potential fines and penalties.

What are the Top Brands in Super Sleeper Semis? How Much Do They Cost?


Western Star 49X Day Cab SBFA with 168 Inch ARI Legacy II.
Image source: https://www.legacysleepers.com

Super sleeper semis are high-performing, best-in-class trucks that combine utility, comfort, and efficiency &#; and come with a hefty price tag. Super sleepers start over $200,00 and can even reach $600,000 at the top end of customization. Several manufacturers, including Kenworth, Peterbilt, Volvo, and Freightliner, have set the bar high with their reliable, high-performing super sleeper semis. Let&#;s look at the features of some top brands and see what makes them the preferred choice in the industry.

Kenworth W900

The Kenworth W900 Custom Sleeper seamlessly combines comfort and functionality. With its distinctive long-nose style, this iconic truck has a spacious sleeper cabin, providing drivers unparalleled comfort during long hauls. The custom sleeper includes amenities like a kitchenette, a compact bathroom, and a cozy sleeping area, all designed to make life on the road feel a little more like home.

Peterbilt 567

The Peterbilt 567 is a testament to power and performance in heavy-duty trucks. Its PACCAR engine ensures optimal fuel efficiency and increased uptime. The truck features advanced steering, a roomy, ergonomic cabin for driver comfort, and safety features such as collision mitigation and lane departure warnings. Check out the full video of a Peterbilt 389 Extended Sleeper (with hot tub) for $560,000! This truck should make any driver the envy of the truck stop!

ARI Legacy Sleepers

ARI Legacy Sleepers, including the ARI Legacy II, are the epitome of comfort and functionality, designed to provide a home-away-from-home experience for long-haul truckers. They boast an array of features, including a full-size bed, a fancy kitchen with grilling stations, a dining area that can double as a workspace, ample storage for personal belongings, and an integrated bathroom with a shower. These sleepers also come equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment systems for relaxation during downtime. The cost of an ARI Legacy Sleeper varies considerably based on the features chosen.

Freightliner Cascadia

The Freightliner Cascadia is a state-of-the-art heavy-duty semi-truck renowned for its advanced features and exceptional performance. Key features include a fuel-efficient design, optimized aerodynamics, and an integrated Detroit Powertrain, contributing to increased profitability by reducing fuel consumption. It also boasts cutting-edge safety technologies such as Detroit Assurance 5.0 with Adaptive Cruise Control and Active Brake Assist. The interior offers spaciousness and comfort for the driver with noise abatement features providing a quiet ride.

Western Star

Western Star Super Sleepers provide exceptional comfort, utility, and durability for long-haul truckers. Key features include a spacious cab, inbuilt high-quality kitchen appliances, a restful sleeping area, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Like other super sleepers, these high-end sleeper trucks focus on creating a home-away-from-home experience for drivers spending extended periods on the road.

Stryker Supports Truckers


Image source: https://www.volvotrucks.us/

Super sleeper semi-trucks have elevated the concept of on-the-go comfort and efficiency for long-haul truckers. These state-of-the-art vehicles enable truckers to lead a healthy lifestyle while minimizing fatigue and maximizing productivity. The evolution of super sleepers highlights the driver&#;s essential role in sustaining our global economy. In the future, we can expect even more innovations to enhance the comfort, safety, and efficiency of the drivers who make our transportation infrastructure strong.

Stryker is proud to support truckers throughout North America with top-of-the-line radio equipment &#; from powerful mobile ham radios to CB radio microphones and CB antennas!

For more information, please visit Custom Semi Trailers.