This
guide contains:
Background on semi trailers
Important
features of semi trailers
How
to find the best semi trailer for you
This
short guide was created to help you recognize the basics
of semi trailers and to help you choose the right semi
trailer for you. We do not sell or rent any semi trailers
ourselves, so you can rest assured that all of the information
in this guide is unbiased and independent.
Background
on semi trailers and recreational vehicles
Searching online is a great way to find the right semi
trailer for your needs. Whether you need a semi trailer
for refrigerated items, dry freight, liquids, livestock
or any other cargo, there are many web sites where you
can find the right semi trailer at the right price,
whether you want new or used.
Important
functions and features of semi trailers
Here are some important features and functions of semi-trailers
that you need to consider when researching and comparing
semi trailers:
Cargo
Type- what type of cargo you will be hauling will determine
the type of semi trailer that you will need. There are
several options, including dry freight containers, high
cube dry containers, open top containers, reefer containers,
live haul containers, log drop, platform, flat rack,
collapsible flat rack, tank container, and more. Most
semi trailer manufacturers can also design and build
custom semi trailers based on your specific requirements.
Chassis-
what type of cargo you need to haul will also determine
the best chassis for your semi trailer. For new and
custom semi trailers, you often have a choice of which
type of chassis will go with which type of container.
Chassis come in many styles, including gooseneck, drop
frame, sliding, tri-axle, extension, quad-axle and can
also be customized for your specific needs.
Capacity-
capacity is usually measured by total weight that the
semi trailer can carry or in cubic feet of container
space. Capacity is a function of the size of the semi
trailer, along with the container type and chassis support.
Delivery-
regardless of if you buy a new or used semi trailer,
you will need to arrange for delivery or pickup of the
semi trailer. There are sometimes mileage restrictions
on how far a semi trailer will be delivered; longer
distance usually means higher delivery costs.
Onload/Offload
Method- most semi trailers do not have a wide range
of loading and unloading options as they rely on forklift
or crane equipment to unload from the top or