Sometimes, dry van trucks get a bad rap. We’re not sure why that is, however, because they are highly useful! Maybe the problem arises from the inability of dry vans to maintain cold temperatures. Granted, if you’ve got some kind of food or beverage that needs to be kept frozen or cold, you’re going to have to go with a refrigerated trailer. But, how many of all shipped goods need to be kept cold or frozen?
Far more useful than you might think, dry van trucks serve numerous businesses all over the world thanks to their unique characteristics.
When people who aren’t particularly familiar with dry van trucks inquire about them, two questions come up most often:
- Is there something referred to as a “wet van”? No. At least not in any industry involved in transportation.
- Aren’t all vans dry? Unless you took that truck through a car wash and left the windows open, technically, yes. They are.
Now, let’s move on.
The Definition of a Dry Van
Before looking at features and benefits, let’s learn about the definition of a dry van.
In a nutshell, a dry van is a truck trailer that is non-temperature controlled and is enclosed. To transport nonperishable freight, it is a favorite with many companies. Typically, most are approximately 53 feet long and have a door at the trailer’s rear end.
Dry vans, as alluded to earlier, are extremely common with companies who ship all kind of goods. This is because of their many advantages.
Benefits of a Dry Van Truck
Consolidated shipping – If a dry van with a load from one customer can be used to transport a load from another (different) customer, they can often receive discounted rates. For customers looking to cut costs, it’s an excellent option, and is referred to as “consolidated shipping”. If you only have a few pallets or items needing transport, this is a great way to save money.
Versatility – A dry van can be used to ship just about anything you can imagine. As long as everything fits inside the unit and the cargo isn’t sensitive to temperature, you’re all set. Construction materials, nonperishable foods, machinery, electronics, furniture, and more can be shipped using a dry van.
Affordable pricing – Dry vans are great for your budget and are commonly used by numerous shipping companies. As a service, this kind of trucking/shipping is a highly competitive industry; and that’s good for those seeking the service. By offering better prices than their competitors, providers are constantly trying to edge each other out.
Dry Van Goods And Users Vary Greatly
The things you’ll find in a dry van are as diverse as the companies shipping the items. Dry van shipping is commonly used by the following industries:
- Healthcare (supplies, equipment, etc.)
- Oil and gas
- Printing and publishing
- Spirits, wine, and beer
- Automotive
- Agriculture
- Retail
- Construction
Dry Van Trucks from Mickey
Mickey Genuine Parts occasionally has used dry van trucks for sale. We also frequently have other types of trailers – both refrigerated and nonrefrigerated – for sale in our used equipment section. If you don’t see the van or trailer you’re looking for, be sure to check back often. Inventory changes rapidly in this category.
Regardless if you’re purchasing parts, a new trailer, a piece of used equipment, or getting repairs done at one of our certified service centers, you can count on Mickey for high quality and superb customer service.
Contact one of our knowledgeable representatives to see how The Mickey Difference can benefit your company or you personally.