Want to haul more freight while spending less money?
Container trailers can be the difference between success and failure in your transport operation. The wrong trailer will increase fuel usage, maintenance costs and damage your ability to haul efficient loads.
The right trailer will streamline your entire logistics process.
Let’s be honest. The trailer industry is extremely competitive right now.
With the semi-trailer market projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.73% through 2030, companies across the country are investing in trailer technologies that allow them to haul maximum payload with minimal expenses.
Which means businesses who want to transport freight most efficiently are fighting over the smallest advantage.
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What you’ll discover:
- Why Trailer Selection Is Important For Your Business
- Common Trailer Types
- Selecting The Trailer That’s Right For You
- Features To Consider
Why Trailer Selection Is Important For Your Business
Container trailers aren’t just another cog in the logistics machine.
They’re the crucial link between ship, rail, and road. Without trailers you simply can’t move goods from the port to the warehouse to the end user. Trucks haul close to 60% of seaborne containers entering the hinterland.
A lot of containers.
If your business is moving containerized freight then choosing the right container trailer directly impacts your bottom line. Every trailer you purchase influences fuel efficiency, payload, and overall operations.
So why does trailer selection matter…
Save Money On Fuel
Lighter trailers allow you to carry more payload.
It’s simple math. The more your trailer weighs the less money you can load onto the trailer. Many modern skeletal trailers weigh as little as 6,000 kg. But they never compromise on strength.
Every pound you save goes straight to your revenue.
Reduce Costs
Fuel costs aren’t the only savings. Everything from maintenance to idle time costs your business money.
Trailers that are easier to maintain and repair save you money over the lifetime of the asset. Lightweight trailers use less fuel and put less strain on critical components.
Operate More Versatile Equipment
Every port deals with different container sizes.
They all move 20ft and 40ft containers but some also require 45ft trailer capacity. You don’t want to buy multiple trailers that each haul one type of container.
A single versatile trailer that can handle all three saves you money and simplifies operations throughout your organization.
Types Of Trailers Available
Not all container trailers are built equally. It’s important to know the differences before speaking to manufacturers about your options.
Here’s a quick rundown of the most common trailer styles…
Skeletal Trailers
Skeletal trailers are by far the most popular trailer type in the container transport industry.
They get their name from the minimalist “skeleton” structure of the trailer. There are no floor panels. No side walls. Just a reinforced steel frame with twist locks to hold containers in place.
Let’s talk advantages:
- Ultra-lightweight design allows maximum legal payload
- Reduced fuel consumption means you spend less per haul
- Less maintenance due to fewer moving parts
- Faster loading/unloading at ports and intermodal terminals
Over 56% of fleet operators prefer trailer designs that minimize fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions.
Flatbed Container Trailers
Flatbed trailers are similar to skeletal trailers but with one major addition.
Instead of an open frame, they have a flat surface you can use to haul containers and dry cargo. These trailers are more popular with companies that need versatility beyond standard containers.
Tradeoffs you should be aware of?
Flatbed trailers are heavier than skeletal models. They can’t haul quite as much cargo due to decreased payload capacity.
But they provide flexibility that some trailer users require.
Extendable Container Trailers
Extendable trailers can change in length to support different container configurations.
One trailer can haul 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft containers by sliding the frame section forward or backward. This allows you to use one trailer for all three common container sizes.
Ideal for companies that work with multiple container sizes.
Gooseneck Container Trailers
Gooseneck trailers lower the platform holding your cargo.
This design allows you to circumvent many countries height restrictions on container loads. They also offer a lower center of gravity which improves stability.
Especially helpful with tank containers and heavier cargo.
How To Choose The Right Trailer For Your Needs
Now it’s time to talk about how to choose the right container trailer for your specific business.
This section gets into the nitty-gritty of matching your operation to trailer specifications. Some recommendations may not work for your particular situation but these tips will get you started.
Match Trailer Size To Container Sizes
I cannot stress this enough. Make sure the trailers you buy fit the containers you haul most often.
A 20ft container on a 40ft trailer is wasteful and inefficient. A 45 foot container that won’t fit in your current fleet is a logistical nightmare.
Know what you haul and buy accordingly.
Think About Multi-Axle Configurations
Adding more axles to your trailer spread weight more evenly.
Most trailers come in two, three, or four axle configurations. While allowing you to carry heavier loads without breaking weight limits. They also help with stability and reduce tire wear.
If your routes allow for heavier payloads consider trailers with more axles.
Features To Consider
Aside from physical specifications, not all trailers are created equal.
Investing in quality up front saves you money over the lifetime of the trailer. Cheapest is not always best when you’re looking at trailers that should last for decades. Things to look for in a quality trailer…
High-Tensile Steel
Lightweight doesn’t mean fragile.
Higher quality trailers use high-tensile steel throughout key components. This allows for impressive strength without bogging the trailer down with extra weight.
Quality Twist Lock System
Containers aren’t magic glue themselves to trailers.
All trailers have a twist lock system to secure containers during transport. Look for trailers that offer high quality locking systems that can be easily adjusted for different container sizes.
Safety should never be compromised.
Corrosion Prevention
Trailers don’t just degrade from use. They battle Mother Nature every time they drive out into the world.
Rain, salt, road treatment chemicals, ports; these things eat away at trailers that aren’t properly protected. Look for trailers that offer multi-stage corrosion prevention options.
Trailers With Telematics
Many trailers these days come standard with built in telematics systems.
Allows fleets to track their trailers remotely while monitoring cargo conditions and preventative maintenance recommendations. Don’t over look trailers that offer smart features.
Conclusion
Selecting the proper trailer is critical to your bottom line.
Good decisions lead to many years of efficient, profitable operations. Bad decisions are a constant headache that hurt your business.
Here are the major points we covered:
- Lightweight skeletal trailers are your best bet for pure container transport
- If your business needs to transport multiple container sizes consider an extendable trailer
- Purchase trailers that fit the freight you haul most often
- Spend a little more money for a quality trailer that will last
The container shipping industry isn’t slowing down any time soon.
Those that take the time to optimize their trailer usage now will leave competitors behind. Take your time, do your research, and talk to reputable manufacturers about your specific business needs.
