There are companies across industries that require use of commercial trailers to achieve business objectives. Since goods being shipped can be perishable, non-perishable and of varying sizes, you can choose a trailer based on your needs. Check out the information below regarding different types of commercial trailers required for use in business.

1. Dry Van Trailers

Dry van trailers are the most commonly used trailer and they’re often needed to transport goods that must be protected in an enclosed vehicle to prevent damage by road and environmental elements, especially during inclement weather. This type of trailer is often rented or purchased for transporting clothing, electronics, furniture and many other consumer goods. Commercial trailers for sale are often dry van trailers, but there are many other options that accommodate goods that must be protected.

2. Flatbed Trailers

Flatbed trailers are often used to transport large goods that have to be loaded by heavy equipment. This type of trailer offers more flexibility because it’s open and can hold objects that are oddly shaped. You are likely to use this type of trailer to load lumber, tubes, various materials and steel because many flatbed trailers can hold up to about 44,000 pounds. Trucking companies use this type of trailer to accommodate their biggest loads.

3. Refrigerated Trailers

Obviously refrigerated trailers (called reefers) are used for goods that are perishable, which includes food and beverage items, as well as pharmaceuticals. Goods transported in a refrigerated trailer would be destroyed if transported in many other types of trailers. These trailers must have the right type of insulation and cooling system that aligns with regulatory requirements. This includes an evaporator, condenser and compressor. Commercial trailers for sale come in many different sizes. A refrigerated trailer can be up to 8 feet in height and 8 feet in width.

4. Utility Trailers

Utility trailers are commonly used by people that work in maintenance and landscaping that have large equipment that needs to be transported. They are often the perfect size because they can accommodate a lot of tools and can easily tow equipment.

5. Specialized Use Trailers

Specialized use trailers are exactly as they sound; trailers designed to accommodate your specific needs. Since it’s easy to find other types of trailers for most goods, specialized use trailers are usually only needed for loads that have restrictions or are otherwise complicated. For instance, it’s common to see large tractors loaded onto a special use trailer.

6. Step Deck Trailers

Step deck trailers are used for transporting items that are tall and require more height than what can be accommodated with a flatbed trailer. It’s also easier to load items on a step deck trailer because they’re positioned lower and close to the ground. This type of trailer is safer than others and typically has a ramp. A step deck trailer also has two decks.

7. Open Auto Trailers

Open auto trailers are specifically designed to transport automobiles. This is a better option than using other types of trailers to transport vehicles because they are more efficient and align with requirements. There are a long list of requirements for transporting autos and an open auto trailer satisfies them, while allowing you to transport multiple vehicles. If you’re in the auto industry, this is probably the trailer you need.

8. Lowboy Trailers

Lowboy trailers are used to ship heavy equipment, especially large items used for construction. In fact, it can accommodate as much as 80,000 pounds, which will depend on the number of axles it has. The maximum height that a lowboy trailer can accommodate is 14 feet. Lowboy trailers often transport excavators and bulldozers.

9. Extended Flatbed Trailers

Extended flatbed trailers are a good option when you need flexibility because you can extend the flatbed significantly. Some extended flatbed trailers can almost double in length.

When you’re in the market for a trailer, it’s important to have a good idea of the purposes for which it will be used. You can also rent a trailer so that you can choose a different type down the road as necessary.