| If you are just starting out in the trucking industry, you | | | | Van semi trailers are another widely popular type of |
| will need to determine the type or types of available | | | | semi trailer that can be used to transport most types |
| semi trailers. There are numerous types of trailers with | | | | of merchandise. Adding a cooling unit to the |
| various manufacturers. The type of cargo you will haul | | | | compartment will allow for the transportation of |
| will determine the type needed. Specializing in one | | | | perishable items. Most van trailers have rear loading |
| specific type of cargo will allow you to purchase a | | | | doors and will need the assistance of a forklift to fill the |
| new or used trailer that will accommodate your needs. | | | | container. Some van trailers have side doors which |
| A tanker is used for hauling liquids and fuels. Milk and | | | | can add ease to the loading process. Shipments of |
| other similar dairy products are transported in tankers. | | | | food items will typically occur to grocery stores and |
| There are specific cleanliness and refrigeration | | | | warehouses. |
| requirements that will need to be known before | | | | Livestock trailers are used to move animals. They are |
| moving this type of merchandise. The upkeep of this | | | | designed to allow air to circulate, keeping the animals |
| semi trailer is very important. Fuel is also transported in | | | | alive. There may be loading and unloading requirements |
| tanker trailers and usually ships to gas stations or truck | | | | for the driver as well as periodic checks to ensure |
| stops. Tanker trailers can be more difficult to drive due | | | | they are upright and not trampled. Shipment may be to |
| to shifting liquids. The driver should be aware of how | | | | farms and ranches or to meat markets. Typical |
| to drive these effectively before embarking. | | | | shipments are for cows, horses, sheep, and hogs. |
| Flatbed trailers are a very popular type of semi trailer | | | | Deciding on the type of cargo you prefer to haul will |
| and are quite versatile. These trailers can be used to | | | | help determine the type of semi trailer that should be |
| haul heavy equipment, construction items and | | | | purchased. Semi trailers can be purchased new or |
| machinery. The merchandise can be loaded from the | | | | used; however, used trailers are generally more |
| rear, sides or the top with the use of a crane. Drivers | | | | affordable. There are a number of manufacturers |
| will need to be aware about how to secure the items | | | | available to choose from such as Great Dane, |
| for transporting safely and if there are any | | | | Wabash National, Fontaine, Fruehauf, Utility, Trailmobile, |
| requirements for protecting the items from the | | | | Wilson, Strick, Dorsey, Reitnouer, Lufkin, Stoughton and |
| elements. Use of tarps can assist in protecting the | | | | Dragon. Choose the make and model of the semi |
| equipment. Loading, unloading and securing the items | | | | trailer that best suits your needs. |
| can be strenuous work. | | | | |