Truck Types

Understanding Truck and Trailer Equipment Types

One of the most critical skills for a truck dispatcher is knowing which equipment type to use for each load. Choosing the wrong trailer can result in rejected loads, damaged freight, or even safety violations. This comprehensive guide covers all major equipment types used in the U.S. trucking industry.

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Why Equipment Type Matters

For Dispatchers:

• Load Matching - Finding the right truck for the right load
• Rate Negotiation - Specialized equipment commands higher rates
• Compliance - Some freight requires specific equipment by law
• Efficiency - Proper equipment means fewer issues and faster loading/unloading

For Carriers:

• Freight Opportunities - Different equipment opens different markets
• Revenue Potential - Specialized trailers often earn more per mile
• Investment Decisions - Knowing which equipment to purchase

For Brokers:

• Carrier Selection - Matching freight to qualified carriers
• Customer Service - Ensuring proper equipment for each shipment
• Risk Management - Preventing damage and liability issues

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Complete Equipment Types Reference

📦 1. Dry Van

Dimensions:

• Length: 48–53 feet (53 ft most common)
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Height: 9 feet (internal)

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: ~45,000 lbs
• Typical: 40,000–44,000 lbs

Description: The workhorse of the trucking industry. Dry vans are fully enclosed box trailers that protect freight from weather and theft. They account for approximately 70% of all freight movements in the U.S.

Common Freight:

• Consumer Goods - Retail merchandise, clothing, toys
• Furniture - Household and office furniture
• Electronics - TVs, computers, appliances
• Dry Food Products - Non-perishable food items, canned goods
• Packaged Goods - Boxed and palletized freight
• Paper Products - Office supplies, printing materials
• Automotive Parts - Non-hazmat parts, tires

Pros:

• ✅ Most available freight
• ✅ Highest number of available loads
• ✅ Easy to load/unload (dock high)
• ✅ Protects freight from weather
• ✅ Standard equipment at most facilities

Cons:

• ❌ Limited to standard-height freight
• ❌ Cannot haul oversize loads
• ❌ No temperature control
• ❌ Highly competitive (lower rates on some lanes)

Average Rate: $1.50–$2.50 per mile (varies by lane and season)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Dry vans are easiest to find loads for
• Focus on consistent lanes to build broker relationships
• Watch for "high-value" dry van loads (electronics) that pay premium
• Always verify dock availability at pickup/delivery

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🧊 2. Reefer (Refrigerated)

Dimensions:

• Length: 53 feet (standard)
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Height: 8.5 feet (internal, slightly lower than dry van)

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: 42,000–45,000 lbs
• Note: Lower than dry van due to reefer unit weight

Description: Temperature-controlled trailers equipped with refrigeration units. Can maintain temperatures from -20°F to +70°F. Essential for perishable goods and temperature-sensitive products.

Common Freight:

• Produce - Fruits, vegetables (35°F–45°F)
• Frozen Foods - Ice cream, frozen meals (-10°F to 0°F)
• Dairy Products - Milk, cheese, yogurt (34°F–38°F)
• Meat & Poultry - Fresh and frozen meats (28°F–32°F)
• Pharmaceuticals - Temperature-sensitive medications
• Flowers - Fresh cut flowers (33°F–35°F)
• Beverages - Juice, beer, wine (36°F–40°F)
• Candy/Chocolate - Prevent melting during summer

Pros:

• ✅ Higher rates (typically $0.30–$0.50 more per mile than dry van)
• ✅ Consistent freight demand
• ✅ Can also haul dry freight when needed
• ✅ Less competition than dry van
• ✅ Strong lanes from agricultural regions

Cons:

• ❌ Fuel costs for reefer unit (adds $150–$300 per load)
• ❌ Maintenance of refrigeration unit
• ❌ Strict temperature monitoring requirements
• ❌ Higher equipment cost ($50K–$60K vs $30K for dry van)
• ❌ Cannot exceed temperature range limits

Average Rate: $2.00–$3.00 per mile

Dispatcher Tips:

• California, Florida, Texas, Georgia are major produce regions
• Monitor fuel costs when calculating profitability
• Always confirm temperature requirements in writing
• Keep reefer unit maintenance current (brokers will ask)
• Summer months = higher rates for reefers
• Empty reefer can haul dry freight, but rate may be lower

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🏗️ 3. Flatbed

Dimensions:

• Length: 48–53 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet (standard legal width)
• Deck Height: ~5 feet from ground

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: 48,000–52,000 lbs

Description: Open trailers with no sides or roof. Used for freight that doesn't fit in enclosed trailers or needs top/side loading. Requires driver to secure load with chains, straps, and tarps.

Common Freight:

• Lumber - Dimensional lumber, plywood, OSB
• Building Materials - Roofing, siding, insulation
• Steel Products - Coils, beams, plates, pipes
• Machinery - Construction equipment, industrial machines
• Vehicles - Forklifts, small equipment
• Large Equipment - Generators, HVAC units
• Pipes & Tubing - Oil field pipe, drainage pipe
• Palletized Freight - Bricks, blocks, bagged goods

Pros:

• ✅ Higher rates ($2.00–$3.50 per mile)
• ✅ Handles oversize/overweight freight
• ✅ Top and side loading access
• ✅ Less competition (specialized skill required)
• ✅ Strong demand in construction markets

Cons:

• ❌ Weather exposure (requires tarping)
• ❌ Labor-intensive (securing, tarping, untarping)
• ❌ Requires securement knowledge and equipment
• ❌ Tarps, chains, straps cost money to maintain
• ❌ Loading/unloading takes longer

Average Rate: $2.00–$3.50 per mile (plus tarp fee $50–$150 if applicable)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Confirm if tarp is required (negotiate tarp fee)
• Verify carrier has proper securement equipment
• Steel and construction materials = steady freight
• Driver must know DOT securement regulations
• Higher rates justify the extra work
• Many shippers pay "loading/unloading" detention quickly

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📐 4. Step Deck (Stepdeck / Drop Deck)

Dimensions:

• Length: 48–53 feet (two deck levels)
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Upper Deck: ~11 feet long
• Lower Deck (Well): ~37–42 feet long
• Well Height: 3.5 feet from ground (vs 5 feet on flatbed)

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: ~48,000 lbs

Description: A flatbed with two levels. The lower deck allows hauling taller freight while staying under the 13'6" legal height limit. Combines benefits of flatbed versatility with ability to haul taller loads.

Common Freight:

• Tall Machinery - Equipment up to 10 feet tall
• Construction Equipment - Excavators, loaders, skid steers
• Large Vehicles - Buses, RVs, military vehicles
• Industrial Equipment - Large generators, HVAC systems
• Agricultural Equipment - Tractors, combines, implements
• Oversized Crates - Large industrial packaging
• Tall Palletized Loads - Stacked materials

Pros:

• ✅ Premium rates ($2.50–$4.00 per mile)
• ✅ Hauls taller freight than standard flatbed
• ✅ Avoids overheight permit costs
• ✅ Less competition (more specialized)
• ✅ High demand for equipment hauling

Cons:

• ❌ More expensive trailer ($40K–$50K)
• ❌ Requires more skill to load/secure
• ❌ Deck height difference complicates some loads
• ❌ Not suitable for all flatbed freight
• ❌ Limited availability

Average Rate: $2.50–$4.00 per mile

Dispatcher Tips:

• Great for construction and ag equipment
• Always confirm height of freight before booking
• Calculate total height: well height (3.5') + freight height
• Excellent rates for specialized loads
• Popular in oil field services

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🚜 5. RGN (Removable Gooseneck / Lowboy)

Dimensions:

• Length: 48–53 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet (can be wider with permits)
• Deck Height: 18–24 inches from ground (very low)

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: 42,000–150,000 lbs (depending on axle configuration)

Description: Heavy-haul trailer with removable front section (gooseneck) that allows equipment to be driven directly onto the deck. Extremely low deck height accommodates very tall and heavy loads.

Common Freight:

• Heavy Construction Equipment - Bulldozers, cranes, excavators
• Industrial Machinery - Manufacturing equipment, generators
• Mining Equipment - Large-scale mining machinery
• Military Vehicles - Tanks, armored vehicles
• Oversized/Overweight Loads - Transformers, turbines, large tanks
• Agricultural Equipment - Large combines, harvesters
• Oilfield Equipment - Drilling rigs, large valves

Pros:

• ✅ Highest rates ($3.50–$10+ per mile depending on permits)
• ✅ Specialized niche with less competition
• ✅ Handles extremely heavy/tall freight
• ✅ Drive-on capability simplifies loading
• ✅ Strong demand in construction and oil/gas

Cons:

• ❌ Very expensive equipment ($60K–$100K+)
• ❌ Often requires permits (oversize/overweight)
• ❌ Permit costs reduce profit ($50–$500+ per permit)
• ❌ Route restrictions (bridges, tunnels, low clearances)
• ❌ May require pilot cars or escorts
• ❌ Complex regulations and liability

Average Rate: $3.50–$10.00+ per mile (plus permit costs)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Verify permit requirements BEFORE booking
• Factor permit costs into rate negotiation
• Know route restrictions and plan accordingly
• Experienced drivers only (specialized skill)
• High rates but longer booking/planning time
• Great niche market for experienced carriers

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🚛 6. Power Only (PO)

Dimensions:

• Tractor Only - No trailer attached
• Pulls: Customer-owned or leased trailers

Weight Capacity:

• Varies: Depends on trailer type being pulled

Description: Carrier provides only the tractor (truck cab). The shipper, receiver, or broker provides the loaded trailer. Driver picks up a pre-loaded trailer, hauls it, drops it, and moves to next load.

Common Freight:

• Any freight type - Dry van, reefer, flatbed trailers
• Drop & Hook Operations - Distribution centers, rail yards
• Intermodal - Pulling containers from rail terminals
• Store Deliveries - Retail distribution
• Cross-Dock Operations - Transfer facilities

Requirements:

• ✅ Tractor maximum 10 years old (most brokers require)
• ✅ Valid license plate and registration
• ✅ $1 million liability insurance minimum
• ✅ Proper fifth wheel and connections
• ✅ Air brake connections

Pros:

• ✅ No trailer maintenance costs
• ✅ No trailer purchase cost ($30K–$60K savings)
• ✅ Drop & hook = faster turnaround
• ✅ Consistent freight with major retailers
• ✅ Flexible (can pull any trailer type)

Cons:

• ❌ Rates slightly lower than carrier-provided equipment
• ❌ Limited to facilities with available trailers
• ❌ Tractor age requirement (max 10 years)
• ❌ Dependent on trailer availability
• ❌ Driver responsible for trailer inspection

Average Rate: $1.30–$2.20 per mile (slightly lower than standard dry van)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Verify tractor age before booking
• Confirm trailer availability at pickup
• Pre-inspection of trailer is driver's responsibility
• Popular with Amazon, Walmart, Target distribution
• Great for carriers who don't own trailers
• "Drop & hook" means faster loads = more revenue

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📦 7. Box Truck (Straight Truck)

Dimensions:

• Length: 10–26 feet (most common: 16, 20, 24, 26 ft)
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Height: 8–9 feet

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: 12,500–33,000 lbs (depending on size and GVW rating)
• 26 ft box truck: ~10,000 lbs cargo capacity

Description: Truck with cargo area permanently attached to cab (not a separate trailer). Popular for local and regional deliveries. Can be driven with regular CDL or even without CDL if under 26,000 lbs GVWR.

Common Freight:

• Furniture Deliveries - Residential and commercial
• Appliances - Refrigerators, washers, dryers
• Local Deliveries - Retail goods to stores
• Moving Services - Household moves
• Office Equipment - Desks, chairs, file cabinets
• Event Equipment - Tables, chairs, staging
• LTL Freight - Less-than-truckload consolidation
• Expedited Small Loads - Time-sensitive local freight

Pros:

• ✅ Lower equipment cost ($30K–$80K depending on size)
• ✅ Easier to drive in urban areas
• ✅ Doesn't require CDL if under 26K lbs GVWR
• ✅ Local/regional routes (home nightly)
• ✅ Less fuel consumption than semi
• ✅ Fits in residential areas

Cons:

• ❌ Lower weight capacity
• ❌ Shorter length limits freight volume
• ❌ Lower per-mile rates
• ❌ Limited to local/regional (400-mile radius typical)
• ❌ Cannot compete with semi rates

Average Rate: $1.00–$2.50 per mile (or $50–$150 per delivery for local)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Great for urban deliveries where semis can't go
• Furniture and appliance delivery = good niche
• Residential delivery often pays per-stop not per-mile
• Lower operating costs offset lower rates
• Build routes with multiple stops for efficiency
• Amazon Relay has box truck freight

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🏎️ 8. Hotshot

Dimensions:

• Length: 30–40 feet (gooseneck or bumper-pull trailer)
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Deck Height: Variable (typically 3–4 feet)

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: 16,000–25,000 lbs (depending on truck/trailer combo)

Description: Smaller freight operation using heavy-duty pickup trucks (F-350, Ram 3500, etc.) pulling gooseneck or bumper-pull trailers. Faster, more nimble than semi-trucks. Popular for time-sensitive and smaller loads.

Common Freight:

• Automotive Parts - Urgent parts for dealerships
• Agriculture Equipment - Small tractors, ATVs, UTVs
• Oilfield Supplies - Pipe, valves, small equipment
• Construction Materials - Time-sensitive job site deliveries
• Small Machinery - Generators, compressors, pumps
• Expedited Freight - Rush deliveries
• Vehicles - Cars, motorcycles, side-by-sides

Pros:

• ✅ Lower startup cost ($50K–$80K for truck + trailer)
• ✅ Faster transit times (can drive personal vehicle speeds)
• ✅ No CDL required (if under 26K lbs combined weight)
• ✅ Premium rates for expedited service
• ✅ More agile in tight locations
• ✅ Lower fuel and maintenance costs

Cons:

• ❌ Limited weight capacity
• ❌ Smaller load sizes
• ❌ Competitive market
• ❌ Harder on personal vehicle than driving empty
• ❌ Requires load securement knowledge

Average Rate: $1.50–$3.50 per mile (often expedited premiums)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Excellent for oil/gas industry (Texas, Oklahoma, North Dakota)
• Ag equipment hot market during planting/harvest
• Expedited loads command premium rates
• Can access locations semi-trucks can't reach
• Build relationships with dealerships for parts runs
• Great entry point into trucking (lower investment)

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🚐 9. Cargo Van (Sprinter Van)

Dimensions:

• Length: 18–24 feet (extended models)
• Width: 6–8 feet
• Height: 6–7 feet (high-roof models)

Weight Capacity:

• Maximum: 3,000–4,000 lbs
• Volume: 450–550 cubic feet

Description: Large vans (Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster) used for small parcel and expedited deliveries. No CDL required. Popular for final-mile delivery and courier services.

Common Freight:

• Parcels & Packages - E-commerce deliveries
• Retail Goods - Small store deliveries
• Office Supplies - Documents, printer supplies
• Courier Services - Legal documents, medical supplies
• Parts Delivery - Automotive, industrial parts
• Expedited Small Freight - Same-day, next-day deliveries
• Medical Supplies - Non-regulated medical equipment
• Trade Show Materials - Samples, promotional materials

Pros:

• ✅ Lowest startup cost ($25K–$50K)
• ✅ No CDL required
• ✅ Excellent fuel economy (18–25 MPG)
• ✅ Easy to drive and park
• ✅ Amazon Flex, courier work abundant
• ✅ Can drive anywhere cars can go
• ✅ Low insurance and maintenance costs

Cons:

• ❌ Very limited capacity
• ❌ Lowest per-mile rates
• ❌ High competition
• ❌ Best for local/regional only
• ❌ Vehicle wears quickly with heavy use

Average Rate: $0.75–$1.50 per mile (or $15–$40 per stop for local)

Dispatcher Tips:

• Amazon Relay and Amazon Flex are major cargo van markets
• Expedited courier services pay premium
• Multi-stop routes maximize revenue
• Partner with local businesses for contract routes
• Medical and legal courier = consistent work
• Same-day delivery services growing rapidly

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Equipment Comparison Chart

Equipment Type	Length	Weight Capacity	Avg Rate/Mile	Specialized Skills Required
Dry Van	53 ft	45,000 lbs	$1.50–$2.50	⭐ Low
Reefer	53 ft	42,000–45,000 lbs	$2.00–$3.00	⭐⭐ Moderate
Flatbed	48–53 ft	48,000–52,000 lbs	$2.00–$3.50	⭐⭐⭐ High
Step Deck	48–53 ft	48,000 lbs	$2.50–$4.00	⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very High
RGN	48–53 ft	42,000–150,000 lbs	$3.50–$10+	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Expert
Power Only	Tractor	Varies	$1.30–$2.20	⭐⭐ Moderate
Box Truck	10–26 ft	12,500–33,000 lbs	$1.00–$2.50	⭐ Low
Hotshot	30–40 ft	16,000–25,000 lbs	$1.50–$3.50	⭐⭐⭐ High
Cargo Van	18–24 ft	3,000–4,000 lbs	$0.75–$1.50	⭐ Low

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How Dispatchers Choose Equipment

Matching Load to Equipment:

Step 1: Analyze Freight Specifications

• Weight: Does it exceed equipment capacity?
• Dimensions: Length, width, height
• Type: Dry, refrigerated, hazmat, oversize?
• Value: High-value loads may need enclosed trailer

Step 2: Consider Special Requirements

• Temperature control needed? → Reefer
• Overheight? → Step Deck or RGN
• Side/top loading? → Flatbed
• Pre-loaded trailer? → Power Only
• Residential delivery? → Box Truck or Cargo Van

Step 3: Verify Compliance

• Does carrier have proper equipment type?
• Is equipment in good condition?
• Does driver have experience with this equipment?
• Are permits needed?

Step 4: Calculate Profitability

• Equipment-specific costs (fuel, permits, tarps)
• Deadhead miles to pickup
• Rate vs. industry average for equipment type
• Backhaul opportunities

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Equipment-Specific Dispatcher Tips

For Dry Van Dispatchers:

• Highest load availability, focus on building broker relationships
• Avoid "cheap freight" lanes (oversupplied routes)
• Look for high-value dry van (electronics, pharmaceuticals)
• Keep truck moving – better to haul at breakeven than sit

For Reefer Dispatchers:

• California, Florida, Georgia, Texas = major produce markets
• Summer = higher rates (demand peaks)
• Monitor fuel costs for reefer unit
• Multi-stop reefer loads can be very profitable
• Always get temperature requirements in writing

For Flatbed Dispatchers:

• Securement = time = money (negotiate detention)
• Tarp fees are negotiable ($50–$150 per load)
• Steel, lumber, construction materials = steady freight
• Driver skill is critical – invest in training
• Higher rates justify the extra work

For Specialized Dispatchers (Step Deck, RGN):

• Know permit requirements for each state
• Factor permit costs into negotiations
• Build relationships with equipment dealers and rental companies
• Rates are high but loads take longer to book
• Route planning is critical

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Booking Wrong Equipment Type

• Problem: Freight doesn't fit, load gets rejected
• Solution: Always verify dimensions and weight BEFORE confirming

❌ Not Confirming Tarp Requirements

• Problem: Driver arrives, shipper requires tarp, no tarp available
• Solution: Ask on every flatbed load: "Is tarp required?"

❌ Accepting Power Only Without Age Verification

• Problem: Tractor is 12 years old, broker rejects it
• Solution: Confirm tractor year with carrier before booking PO loads

❌ Ignoring Height Restrictions

• Problem: Load is 11 feet tall, booked on standard flatbed (exceeds 13'6" total)
• Solution: Calculate TOTAL height (deck + freight) before confirming

❌ Not Considering Specialized Equipment Costs

• Problem: Reefer load pays $2.00/mile, but fuel for reefer unit costs $300
• Solution: Always factor equipment-specific costs into profitability analysis

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Conclusion

Understanding equipment types is fundamental to successful truck dispatching. Each trailer type serves specific freight needs and comes with unique advantages, challenges, and rate structures.

Key Takeaways:

• ✅ Match equipment to freight - Don't guess, verify dimensions and requirements
• ✅ Know your carrier's capabilities - Equipment type AND driver experience
• ✅ Specialized equipment = higher rates - But also higher costs and complexity
• ✅ Factor all costs - Fuel, permits, tarps, maintenance into rate decisions
• ✅ Build expertise - Master one equipment type before expanding

For New Dispatchers: Start with dry van freight to learn the basics, then expand into specialized equipment as you gain experience and carrier relationships.

For Experienced Dispatchers: Diversify your carrier network across equipment types to maximize load opportunities and negotiate better rates.

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Continue Your Learning:

• Overview of Truck Dispatching
• Understanding the Trucking Industry
• Key Skills Required for Truck Dispatching

Ready to master equipment types? Understanding the right trailer for each load is the foundation of profitable dispatching. Explore more at Carriversity.