Did you know that the types of trucks you use in logistics is extremely important? Selecting the right types of trucks is crucial when transporting goods. Using a truck that doesn’t meet the specific requirements of the cargo can result in rejected loading, leading to wasted time and financial loss. It requires knowledge about the various types of trucks, including size, loading procedures, weight limits, and special requirements for different kinds of cargo.
In this article, we’ll give you a detailed rundown of the different types of trucks used in logistics and their specific uses. This information can help you understand which truck is the right choice for your logistics needs, and how logistics companies make these choices to ensure safe and efficient transport.
Types of Trucks
Tautliner (Curtainsider Truck)
Tautliners are among the most common trucks used in road transport. They are known for their ease of loading and unloading, which allows for a streamlined delivery process. Their curtain-like sides can be pulled back to allow side or overhead loading, and they can be tightly secured to protect cargo. These trucks are particularly useful when you need frequent access to the goods during transit or multiple stops for unloading. Tautliners are generally lower in cost compared to more specialized trucks.
- Common Uses:Transporting wide or long cargo that can not be loaded from, and goods that need quick loading/unloading.
Dry, Refrigerated and Isotherm Truck
Trucks can be chosen based on the temperature needs of the cargo. It is important to understand the difference between these types of trucks to avoid complication and damaging the goods.
- Dry Truck: Standard truck for non-perishable items that do not need temperature control. Dry trucks are the most economical option, suitable for a wide range of goods that do not require specific temperature or climate conditions.
- Refrigerated Truck (also called “frigo” by us): Equipped with cooling systems for perishable goods like food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. These trucks have slightly reduced capacity due to refrigeration units and are higher in cost compared to dry trucks. They are essential for industries that require strict temperature controls to maintain product quality during transit.
- Isotherm Truck: Insulated trucks that maintain a constant temperature without active cooling, suitable for goods like dairy or chocolate. These trucks are also higher in cost compared to standard trucks and are ideal when passive temperature maintenance is sufficient rather than active refrigeration.
Open Platform (Flatbed) Truck
Flatbed trucks are highly versatile, with no roof or sides. They are perfect for loads that require overhead loading, as well as machinery and other items that cannot fit inside a conventional enclosed trailer. Flatbeds are more cost-effective for transporting oversize loads, although permits may be needed for wide or heavy cargo.
- Common Uses: Oversize and irregularly shaped cargo, such as construction beams, transporting vehicles like cars, motorcycles and heavy machinery, as well as moving industrial equipment.
Container Truck
Container trucks are used to move shipping containers, often seen at ports for multimodal transportation. They can handle both standard and high cube containers, offering flexibility based on cargo volume. Container trucks are generally in the average cost range and are versatile for both short and long-distance hauls. They provide an efficient solution for transporting goods in sealed containers, often used in international shipping, connecting ocean shipping with road transport.
- Common Uses: International and cross-continental transport, moving containers between ports, distribution centers, and warehouses.
Box Trailer Truck
Box trailer trucks are large containers attached to a truck chassis, providing a secure enclosed space. They are popular for short-distance deliveries within cities and even emergency transports due to their easy maneuverability and secure cargo area. Box trucks are typically lower in cost compared to temperature-controlled trucks, making them budget-friendly for standard loads.
- Common Uses: Transporting high-value cargo, furniture, household goods, and consumer electronics that need protection from weather or theft.
Tanker Truck
Tanker trucks are designed with cylindrical containers to maintain stability and are equipped with safety features to prevent leaks. Tanker trucks are essential for transporting ADR (hazardous) goods, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations. Due to their specialized design and additional safety measures, tanker trucks are higher in cost compared to standard trucks.
- Common Uses: Transporting fuel, chemicals or other bulk liquids, including hazardous materials that require strict handling and safety standards.
Tail Lift Truck
Tail lift trucks come equipped with a hydraulic platform for easier loading and unloading, making them ideal for goods that cannot be manually lifted. These trucks are especially useful for deliveries without loading equipment, particularly in urban areas where loading docks may not be available. They tend to be slightly more expensive than standard trucks due to the hydraulic equipment.
- Common Uses: Retail goods, home deliveries, and warehousing supplies that require additional assistance with loading or unloading.
Common Mistakes in Choosing the Types of Trucks
Choosing the wrong types of trucks can lead to costly issues, from damaged cargo to delays. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not Considering Cargo Requirements: It’s crucial to consider the specific needs of the cargo, such as temperature control for perishable items or ADR compliance for hazardous materials. Choosing the wrong truck can lead to spoilage, legal penalties, or other complications.
- Ignoring Weight and Size Limits: Choosing a truck without considering the weight and size of the cargo can lead to overweight fines, safety hazards, or damage to the cargo. Ensure the truck is appropriate for the load dimensions and weight.
- Underestimating Security Needs: High-value goods require added security. Choosing a standard dry truck instead of an enclosed box truck can increase the risk of theft or damage. Always consider the value and sensitivity of the cargo.
Overlooking Loading/Unloading Accessibility: Different trucks have varying ease of loading and unloading. Choosing a truck without considering loading dock availability or equipment, such as a tail lift, can cause delays, especially in urban areas.
Role of the Logistics Company
Choosing the right types of trucks for logistics requires a thorough understanding of the cargo and its handling requirements. Logistics companies play a crucial role in selecting the best truck based on cargo type, size, and any special needs. This decision is essential to ensure that the cargo arrives in perfect condition, without incurring unnecessary costs.
- Choosing the Right Truck: Logistics companies assess the specific needs of each shipment and choose the best truck by considering the cargo measurements, type, and handling requirements. Choosing the right types of trucks can reduce costs, minimize damage, and ensure timely delivery.
- Handling Challenges: On the road, unexpected challenges may arise—from traffic delays to bad weather conditions and complications with loading/unloading. Logistics companies have the experience to handle these issues efficiently, choosing alternative routes, adjusting schedules and handling documents to minimize the impact on delivery times.
Constant Communication: A good logistics company keeps in contact with clients and drivers to ensure a smooth delivery process. They provide real-time updates, answer queries, and handle emergencies to provide peace of mind and ensure that clients know exactly when their goods will arrive.
If you have any transport needs, contact us today and request a personalized quote!
