Dry Van

Enclosed Trailer vs Dry Van

Another term for a “dry van” could be a “closed trailer” or simply an “enclosed trailer.” These terms describe the same type of vehicle fully enclosed and designed to protect goods from the elements during transit.

How are Dry Van Rates Determined?

Dry Van rates are determined by several important factors that help shipping companies and carriers decide how much to charge for transporting goods. One major factor is the distance the goods need to travel. The farther the distance, the higher the rate, as transporting items over long distances requires more fuel and time. For example, shipping goods from one state to another may cost more than shipping them within the same city.

The size and weight of the cargo being transported also play a significant role in determining Enclosed Trailer rates. Larger and heavier items take up more space in the trailer and may require special handling or equipment, which can increase the cost of transportation. Additionally, the density of the cargo, or how much space it occupies relative to its weight, can impact rates. Low-density items that take up much space but are lightweight may be charged based on dimensional weight rather than actual weight.

The type of goods being transported is another factor that influences Dry Van rates. Some items may require special handling, temperature control, or security measures, which can affect the overall cost of shipping. For example, transporting perishable goods that require refrigeration may incur additional fees for temperature-controlled trailers. Similarly, hazardous materials or fragile items may require extra precautions and incur higher rates to ensure safe transportation.

Market conditions and industry trends also impact freight rates. Fluctuations in fuel prices, seasonal demand for certain goods, and overall economic conditions can all affect transportation costs. During peak shipping seasons or times of high demand, rates may increase due to limited capacity and higher demand for transportation services. Conversely, rates may decrease during periods of low demand or when fuel prices are lower.

Lastly, carrier availability, route accessibility, and competition among carriers can influence Enclosed Trailer rates. Carriers may adjust their rates based on factors such as their operating costs, equipment availability, and competitive pricing strategies. Overall, Dry Van rates are determined by a combination of factors that reflect the distance, size, weight, type of goods, market conditions, and logistical considerations involved in transporting cargo using these trailers.

Dry Van Dimensions

Trailers can be found in various sizes to accommodate a range of shipment needs. The maximum length allowed for trailers is 53 feet long, with the most popularly selected including the general and pup trailers.

Some of the most common types include the following:

53-Foot Dry Vans:

This type of semi-trailer is the most common van on the road. It can hold up to 45,000 pounds of freight and twenty-six standard pallets. Overall dimensions for this type of trailer are 53′ x 99″ x  110.25″ trailers (LWH). A 53-foot Dry Van trailer is one of the most commonly used sizes in the transportation industry due to its ample capacity and versatility. Typically, these trailers are about 53 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 9 to 9.5 feet tall. This spacious design allows for the efficient loading of cargo, accommodating a wide range of goods, from large pallets of products to oversized items like furniture or machinery.

In terms of capacity, a standard 53-foot enclosed trailer can hold approximately 26 standard pallets, each measuring 48 inches by 40 inches. This means it can transport a substantial volume of goods, making it ideal for businesses moving large quantities of products over long distances. Whether hauling electronics, clothing, groceries, or other consumer goods, the 53-foot Dry Van provides ample space to meet various shipping needs while ensuring that items are securely and safely transported to their destination

28-Foot Dry Vans: Twenty-eight-foot dry vans are called “pup trucks.” LTL products are frequently transported in these trailers. They can hold up to 22,500 pounds of freight and 14 conventional pallets and have a floor space ratio of 28′ x 100″ x 109″ (LWH). A 28-foot enclosed trailer offers a compact yet practical solution for transporting goods, mainly when space constraints or smaller loads are considered. Typically, these trailers are approximately 28 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 to 9 feet tall. While smaller than their 53-foot counterparts, they still provide ample room for cargo and are well-suited for maneuvering in tight spaces, such as urban areas or narrow streets.

Despite their smaller size, 28-foot trailers still offer significant capacity for hauling goods. They can typically accommodate around 14 standard pallets, making them suitable for transporting moderate to large-sized loads. This makes them a popular choice for businesses that need to move goods efficiently while optimizing space usage, whether delivering supplies to local stores or transporting goods between regional distribution centers. With their versatility and practical dimensions, 28-foot enclosed trailers provide a reliable and efficient solution for various shipping needs.

24-foot Dry Vans/Straight Trucks: These semi-trailers are also known as box trucks and are commonly used for city deliveries. Most often, they include a liftgate. They are available in various sizes, but their dimensions are typically 24′ x 102″ x 102″ (LWH). A 24-foot trailer is a compact and maneuverable option for transporting goods, particularly in urban or tight spaces where larger trailers may face difficulty navigating. Typically, these trailers are around 24 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and have a height of approximately 8 to 9 feet. Despite their smaller dimensions compared to larger trailers, they still offer sufficient space to carry a variety of goods, making them a practical choice for short-distance or local deliveries.

Despite being smaller, 24-foot enclosed trailers can still carry considerable cargo. They can typically accommodate around 12 standard pallets, making them suitable for transporting moderate loads efficiently. Whether it’s delivering goods to retail stores, carrying supplies for local businesses, or transporting equipment for events, the 24-foot trailer provides a convenient and versatile solution for various shipping needs, allowing businesses to move their products while navigating through tight spaces efficiently.

Are A Dry Van & Box Truck The Same?

While a Dry Van and a Box Truck are used for moving stuff from one place to another, they’re not quite the same. A Dry Van is like a big rectangular container that gets hitched onto a tractor-trailer truck. It’s spacious and can carry many goods, protecting them from bad weather. Conversely, a Box Truck resembles a giant cube with the cargo area connected to the driver’s cabin. It’s often used for smaller deliveries or local trips.

One big difference is their size and how much stuff they can hold. Dry-enclosed trailers are usually bigger and can handle larger loads, making them great for extended trips or moving goods. Box Trucks, though, are smaller and easier to maneuver, which is handy for zipping around town or getting into tight spots. Plus, Box Trucks are simpler to load and unload since everything is right in one integrated space.

Another difference is how you access them. With an enclosed trailer, you often need a loading dock or ramp to get stuff in and out because it’s up high on the back of a truck. But with a Box Truck, you can walk right in from the ground, which can be much easier for specific deliveries. So, while a Van and a Box Truck move things around, they each have perks and quirks that make them useful in different situations.