Truck Types & Specifications
Understanding different truck types is essential for efficient freight shipping. Each truck type has specific capabilities, dimensions, and best use cases. This guide covers the most common truck types used in freight transportation.
Truck TypesFreight ShippingSpecifications
Dry Van
Most common freight truck type for general cargo
Dimensions
length:53 feet
width:8.5 feet
height:9 feet
door Height:8.5 feet
door Width:8.5 feet
Capacity
weight:80,000 lbs GVW (34,000 lbs payload)
volume:4,050 cubic feet
Key Features
- •Enclosed trailer for weather protection
- •Rear door loading only
- •Standard height and width
- •Most economical option
Best For
Palletized goodsBoxed merchandiseGeneral freightWeather-sensitive items
Flatbed
Open trailer for oversized or heavy cargo
Dimensions
length:48-53 feet
width:8.5 feet
height:8.5 feet (deck height)
deck Height:5 feet from ground
Capacity
weight:80,000 lbs GVW (48,000 lbs payload)
volume:No height restrictions
Key Features
- •Open deck design
- •Side and rear loading
- •Tie-down points throughout
- •No height restrictions
Best For
Construction materialsMachineryOversized itemsLumber and steel
Refrigerated (Reefer)
Temperature-controlled trailer for perishables
Dimensions
length:53 feet
width:8.5 feet
height:9 feet
door Height:8.5 feet
door Width:8.5 feet
Capacity
weight:80,000 lbs GVW (34,000 lbs payload)
volume:3,800 cubic feet
Key Features
- •Temperature control (-20°F to 70°F)
- •Insulated walls
- •Refrigeration unit
- •Data logging capability
Best For
Perishable foodsPharmaceuticalsTemperature-sensitive materialsChemical products
Step Deck (Drop Deck)
Two-level deck for tall cargo
Dimensions
length:53 feet total
width:8.5 feet
upper Deck:11 feet
lower Deck:42 feet
upper Height:8.5 feet
lower Height:10 feet
Capacity
weight:80,000 lbs GVW (48,000 lbs payload)
volume:Variable by section
Key Features
- •Two deck levels
- •Accommodates taller cargo
- •Ramps between levels
- •Versatile loading options
Best For
Tall equipmentConstruction machineryMixed cargo heightsHeavy equipment
Lowboy
Extra-low deck for extremely tall cargo
Dimensions
length:53 feet
width:8.5 feet
deck Height:18-24 inches from ground
clearance:11.5 feet
Capacity
weight:80,000 lbs GVW (40,000+ lbs payload)
volume:Maximum height utilization
Key Features
- •Extremely low deck
- •Detachable neck
- •Heavy-duty construction
- •Specialized loading equipment
Best For
Construction equipmentIndustrial machineryTall, heavy itemsOversized cargo
Important Notes
- •All weight limits include the truck and trailer weight (GVW = Gross Vehicle Weight)
- •Actual payload capacity may vary based on truck configuration and equipment
- •Height clearances must account for road restrictions (typically 13'6" maximum)
- •Specialized equipment may require permits and escort vehicles