Types of Truck Trailers – New Truck Driver Tips
From food to cars, nearly every product on the market in the U.S. is transported by truck. And with products varying so much, the types of trucks that carry them can vary just as much. So, what are the most common truck trailer types?
As a premier truck driving school, Coastal Truck Driving School prides itself on training new drivers in every aspect so that they are prepared for anything that may come their way. When you attend Coastal’s CDL training program, you’ll be confident in your abilities and hit the road in no time. Call our admissions office today for application information.
Types of Truck Trailers – Dry Van or Box Trailer
This type of truck trailer is what you probably visualize when thinking of commercial trucks. Box trailers or dry vans are the most common trailers used in shipping. They typically carry pallets of cargo, such as electronics, clothing, and non-perishable food.
Because of the versatility and cost-effectiveness of box trailers, most drivers will transport freight via dry van at some point in their careers.
Types of Truck Trailers – Refrigerated Trailer
If you’re not hauling a dry van, chances are your trailer is a refrigerated one. These types of trailers are extremely prevalent, as they carry perishable food items like fresh produce and pharmaceuticals. Refrigerated trailers are typically the same size as dry vans but have decreased cargo space because of the insulation required to maintain temperature.
Refrigerated trailers are also commonly referred to as “reefers” by people in the business. So, don’t be surprised when someone says they are hauling a 45,000lb reefer through multiple states.
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Types of Truck Trailers – Flatbeds
While box and refrigerated trailers may be the most common, flatbeds are some of the more versatile types of truck trailers. Flatbeds can be used to transport numerous types of freight, but they really shine in transporting oversized loads. You may have seen them on the interstate being led by a lead car as the truck hauls large construction equipment or other cargo across the country.
From flatbeds to box trailers, Coastal’s ELDT-compliant CDL training program comprehensively trains new truck drivers to succeed. With our job placement program, our graduates have the support system they need to start a great truck driving career. Call our office today at 1-800-486-3639 and get in the driver’s seat.
Types of Truck Trailers – Tankers
Tankers are a type of truck trailer used to transport mainly liquids and gasses, although you can utilize a tanker trailer for some dry goods like grain. To operate a tanker, truck drivers will need to get a tanker endorsement, and if the cargo is hazardous materials, a hazmat endorsement will also be required.
[Related: CDL Endorsements]
Types of Truck Trailers – Specialty: Car Haulers, Logging, Livestock
While dry vans, refrigerated trailers, and tankers offer versatility, the specialty type of truck trailers is a group of trailers with a specific use. Some of the most common are car haulers, logging trucks used to carry fresh-cut trees, and commercial livestock trailers.
Specialty trailers are often used for local or regional routes, allowing drivers to have more “home time” than cross-country routes.
Be Confident in Your Abilities, No Matter the Type of Truck Trailer
Whether you’re hauling a box trailer full of dry goods or a fleet of cars, you can be confident in your training when you attend Coastal Truck Driving School. Because of our exceptional reputation, our graduates are sought after by some of the biggest trucking companies in the United States. Get ready for a fulfilling career with Coastal by contacting our office today.