Selecting the right trailer type is crucial in logistics: it affects cost, loading, and compatibility with cargo. Standard dry vans are enclosed trailers (the typical “box” truck) and measure about 53 ft long × 102 in wide × 110 in high (interior), carrying up to ~45,000 lb. Flatbed trailers (48–53 ft × 102 in) have an open deck for oversized or oddly shaped loads, with capacities around 48,000 lb. Variations include step-deck (drop deck) trailers, which lower part of the deck by ~18–20 in to fit taller freight, and double-drop (RGN) trailers for very high items. Refrigerated “reefer” trailers share similar dimensions (53’×102”) but are insulated and temperature-controlled (typically –20°F to 80°F) to protect perishables; they carry slightly less weight (~43,500 lb) due to the refrigeration unit. Other specialized trailers include tankers for liquids, tanker trucks, and chassis for carrying intermodal containers. Choosing among these depends on cargo type (dimensions, weight, fragility, need for cooling) and facility constraints (e.g. dock heights, loading equipment).

• Box Trailers: 53′ × 102″ × 110″ (interior); up to ~45,000 lb. Fully enclosed for general freight (consumer goods, pallets, electronics). No side-loading. Common and widely available, offering weather protection and security.
• Flatbed Trailers: 48–53′ × 102″ open deck; up to ~48,000 lbbadgerlogistics.com. Ideal for construction materials, machinery, steel, oversized crates. Accessible from all sides (cranes, forklifts). Often requires tarping and chain restraints.
• Step-Deck/Double-Drop: Flatbeds with one or two drops in deck height. A “step deck” lowers the main deck by ~18–20″, allowing taller cargo (~10 ft) on the lower deck. A double-drop trailer has two drops (often with a well section), maximizing height clearance for extremely tall equipment. These configurations avoid oversize permits for taller freight.
• Refrigerated (Reefer) Trailers: 53′ × 102″ same exterior size as dry vans, but insulated with units. Maintain precise temperatures for food, pharmaceuticals, and other perishables. Payload is ~1,500–2,000 lb less than a comparable dry van due to the cooling unit. Necessary for cold-chain products.
• Other Types: Tank trailers (cylindrical tanks) carry bulk liquids or gases; specialized “hot-shot” or box trucks (shorter straight trucks) serve regional or small-load hauls; container chassis carry ISO containers; curtain-sided (Conestoga) trailers offer weather protection with retractable side curtains.

Each trailer type has tradeoffs: box trailers cost less and secure cargo well, but can’t handle extreme sizes or temperature needs. Flatbeds handle big/heavy loads but expose freight to weather and require special securement. Reefers preserve product integrity at higher fuel and equipment cost. Key considerations are cargo dimensions, weight and fragility, origin/destination dock capabilities, and regulatory limits (e.g. maximum legal width 8.5 ft, height ~13.5 ft, total weight 80,000 lb).