If you belong to the heavy hauling transport shipping business, you must know when it comes to freight transport there are many vehicles to choose from. Two of the most common ones are:
Dry van truck
Heavy Haul Flatbed
While there are multiple reasons why these two trailers are most popular among heavy-load transport vehicles – there are many differences between the two.
If you are also confused about which one is the right choice for your business here we have a detailed discussion about the
difference between a heavy haul flatbed vs. a dry van.
Heavy Hauling Transport Flatbed or Van
What is a Flatbed?
As the name suggests, a heavy haul flatbed is an oversized vehicle used for transporting heavyweights on its flat back. The flatbed is considered an extremely versatile transport vehicle, as it can conveniently transport a variety of oddly shaped heavy items.
A flatbed is designed in such a way that it has open sides, an open back, and no roof. It is literally, a flat surface where over-dimensional heavy items are placed using forklifts.
What is a Dry Van?
Completely opposite a flatbed, a dry van is a fully enclosed trailer. It is shaped like a box where oversized objects are loaded and unloaded through its rear end.
You may ask, where does the name dry van come from? Well, the reason is evident. Since dry vans are enclosed and covered, they can keep the cargo protected from different weather conditions – in other words, they keep the cargo “dry”. Hence the name, dry van.
Dimensions and Capacity
Considering their shape, both dry vans and flatbeds have different dimensions and different capacities to hold oversized items.
Flatbed
Most flatbeds are about 48 feet in height. Their dimensions and legal requirements vary for the different kinds of loads they are hauling. For example, for objects over 10 feet, you will be required to use a flatbed with a double drop.
Heavy hauling transport flatbeds can vary in size and length depending on the items you want to transport. Some extendable flatbeds can also reach up to a length of 80 feet. Whether a single or double drop trailer, flatbeds have a standard weight capacity of 48,000 pounds. Anything above that might need a special permit.
Dry Vans
Dry vans are designed in multiple standard dimensions – for example, 53 feet in length, 13.5 feet in height, and 102 inches in width are the most common standard configuration. In other variations, trailers can be 48 feet to up 28 feet in length.
The standard average capacity of a dry van is lower than that of a flatbed. They can carry up to 45,000 pounds as a tall, 53-feet configured trailer has up to 26 palette locations for loading cargo.
Pros and Cons
There are various pros and cons of using both, flatbeds and dry vans. These can help you decide what is fit for your business.
Flatbed
Pros
Since it has no walls, loading and unloading are easier and less time-consuming
Their capacity limit is higher than that of dry vans and holds a larger weight
It is perfect for tall and oddly shaped items that can fit an enclosed trailer
Cons
Requires absolute vigilance, as there are no walls or roofs to hold the items.
Items need to be carefully packed to avoid road accidents or objects falling off.
Cargo is exposed to various conditions.
Dry Van
Pros
Cargo is enclosed and protected from environmental conditions
Heavyweight objects are secured, no chance of them falling out
Convenient for shipping commercial goods
Cons
Can only load and unload objects from one end
Cannot carry oddly shaped or tall items
Wooden floors are susceptible to damage
Bottom Line
Both dry vans and flatbeds are in high demand for heavy hauling transport of oversized items. Whether you choose a heavy haul flatbed or a dry van, make sure you consider the characteristics of both the trailers carefully and make a choice that fits your cargo.
Looking for good and affordable heavy haul flatbed trucking companies? Contact
Heavy Haul Transporting today!
