For international freight services, one of the most widely used freight forwarding methods – and the most popular – is dry van shipping. For this type of shipping, dry freight van trailers are used. These trailers were used for all types of freight forwarding including European group bridge services, pallet shipping, and complete load shipping. It offers numerous benefits and is highly available. Dry van shipping is a workable system for everyone from the customers all the way back to logistics networks companies. With all of that said, let’s take a closer look at dry freight van trailers.
Defining “Dry Van”
A trailer that is categorized as “dry van” is used for transportation of large quantities of goods and cargo. It is also used for oversized cargo like large machines and cars. The most common type of trailer, they are attached to semi-trucks and are seen on roads and highways all over the world.
There’s a logical explanation for the words “dry van”. The cargo inside these trailers is kept dry and free from debris no matter what is going on outside the trailer. It also keeps cargo from spilling out onto the road. The insides of dry vans can be upfitted and customized as needed.
Uses for Dry Vans
These trailers are suitable for short distances and long distances. This makes them one of the top preferred transport vehicles on the road today. Plus, they are extremely versatile and are the chosen trailer by the freight forwarders association. Numerous types of cargo and products can be transported in these trailers. These can include the following:
- Construction materials
- Products and materials from the textile industry
- Nonperishable goods and beverages
- Large parts
- Large machines
- Vehicles, and more
For construction businesses, machinery, small equipment, and large materials are frequently moved in dry vans.
Dry Van Trailer Choices
Particularly for European logistics services, various types of dry vans are used. Approximately 53 feet is the maximum length of a dry van trailer. These are referred to as ” general trailers”. Referred to as ” pup trailers” are shorter vans that run approximately 26 to 29 feet in length.
Dry van trailer options also differ due to the type of material used for covering and making them. Aluminum, iron, hardwood, and galvanized steel are the most common materials from which dry vans are made.
Dry Van Shipping Presents Challenges
There are challenges that are exclusive to dry van shipping. For one thing, they’re not suitable for refrigeration transport because they don’t have temperature control within the trailer. Additionally, it’s difficult for them to handle alterations in the weather and outside temperatures because they lack insulation.
Hardwood floors present another challenge when using dry vans. This is due to the fact that these floors are vulnerable to condensation and moisture. They can be damaged by the cargo contained within the trailer and by weather conditions.
Still a Good Option
Despite the challenges presented by dry van shipping, it is still the most affordable, leading, and preferred means of transport by many customers and freight networks. This keeps dry van manufacturers in business as well as transfer companies. Mickey Genuine Parts has used trailers available for the budget conscious individual. Keep in mind that the inventory of our used equipment changes on a regular basis. Be sure to check to see what’s available when you’re in the market for used equipment. With any questions, please refer to one of our knowledgeable representatives. Contact Mickey today to find out why we are leaders in the industry.