Dry van trucking is a common form of transportation in which dry goods and non-perishable items are transported between locations. Shippers can request less-than-truckload (LTL) service when transporting items via dry van trucking, which allows for cost savings on smaller shipments.
What Is Dry Van Trucking?
Dry van trucking is a type of shipping transportation in which drivers haul dry goods and non-perishable items to assigned locations. Dry vans are one of the most common trailer types used in LTL trucking, and they're capable of holding a wide range of cargo.
Dry vans are specialized vehicles designed for hauling non-perishable products and dry goods. Dry van trailers are fully enclosed and typically crafted with steel or aluminum. The trailers are highly durable and usually feature double back doors that allow drivers to safely load and unload cargo.
The two main types of trailers used in dry van trucking are general trailers and pup trailers. General trailers are approximately 53 feet long, and pup trailers are 26-29 feet long. When used to haul dry van cargo, the maximum trailer length is 53 feet.
What Types of Cargo Do Dry Vans Haul?
A typical dry van trailer features a box-style design, a protective roof and double back doors, which makes it easy to transport a wide variety of non-perishable cargo. Unlike refrigerated trucks and vans, dry vans can't haul temperature-controlled items.
Stuff commonly transported via dry vans include:
- Clothing;
- Leather and textiles;
- Medical equipment;
- Household items;
- Nonperishable (canned) food items;
- Furniture;
- Plastic and rubber items;
- Paper products;
- Appliances;
- Lumber;
- Cement bags; and
- Electronics.
Benefits of Dry Van Trucking
Dry van trucking offers many benefits.
Ideal for Dry Freight
Dry van trucks are ideal for a wide range of dry, non-perishable cargo, from canned food items and clothing to cars and motorcycles. Plus, dry van trailers offer sturdy construction and lockable double doors to keep dry freight safe and secure.
Great for Lighter Loads
While dry vans have load limitations, they're perfectly suited for lighter loads. This can be helpful for smaller businesses that don't ship a lot of products at once. When using LTL shipping, shippers can use dry vans to share loads. This helps save on costs for both parties.
Protection From the Elements
Dry van trailers are usually crafted with weather-resistant steel or aluminum, which protects against wind, rain, and snow.
Cost-Effective
Dry van trailers typically offer a basic design with few extra features, which makes them more affordable than other types of cargo trailers. The lack of temperature control helps keep overall costs low.
Disadvantages of Dry Van Trucking
Dry van trucking also comes with certain limitations and disadvantages.
No Temperature Control
Since dry van trailers lack temperature control, they're unable to transport a wide range of perishable items, including frozen and refrigerated foods and beverages, medications, plants and flowers. When transported in a dry van, temperature-sensitive cargo is at increased risk of spoilage.
Size and Weight Limitations
Dry vans have size and weight limitations that prevent them from transporting certain types of heavy cargo. The maximum cargo weight a dry van can haul is 42,000-45,000 pounds, while the maximum weight a refrigerated semi can haul is around 80,000 pounds. Additionally, dry vans can't exceed 53 feet in length.
Susceptible to Moisture
While the metal or steel portion of a dry van trailer offers protection against the outdoor elements, the hardwood flooring inside the trucks is susceptible to moisture damage. Moisture can reach the flooring if the cargo is wet or leaking, potentially leading to mold or mildew growth.
Ultimately, dry van trucks are common, versatile LTL vehicles that can transport a wide array of dry goods and nonperishables. While they may not be an option for all businesses, they can be a cost-effective choice when appropriate for the type of cargo being hauled.
