A dry van trailer is the most familiar type of trailer that can handle heavy, bulky loads. But how heavy can it be, and is a dry van trailer safe for carrying heavier goods? Here are five facts you must know about dry van trailers, including the weight capacity and safety features.
1. The weight limit of dry van trailers is determined by the type of truck carrying the trailer.
Most dry van trailers weigh up to 80,000 pounds. That’s about 36 tons or more than 30 elephants! But the maximum weight allowed by a truck depends on the vehicle’s weight capacity.
For example, a tractor-trailer can only carry 44,000 pounds. This is because trucks are built with four axles—two in the front and two in the rear—and each axle is designed to support about 20% of the total load. Therefore, to carry a trailer weighing up to 80,000 pounds, a truck must have at least four axles.
2. The weight limit of dry van trailers varies by the type of trailer it’s carrying.
As explained by the experts at Hale Trailer, the weight limit of a dry van trailer is determined by the type of trailer it’s carrying: “Single-walled, single-axle trailers can carry a maximum of 60,000 pounds.” Second-wheeled, tandem trailers cannot weigh more than 80,000 pounds.
A standard single-axle vehicle can accommodate up to 70,000 pounds. An additional axle must accommodate a weight that exceeds 70,000 pounds. A standard two-axle vehicle can accommodate up to 80,000 pounds of weight.
3. The weight limit of dry van trailers also depends on the type of goods being carried.
Dry van trailers for sale are designed to carry heavy, bulky cargo. If you carry light or compact items in them, the weight capacity is even higher than 50 tons. A dry van trailer can have a maximum weight limit of up to 90,000 pounds, depending on the type of items transported.
4. The safety features of dry van trailers include air brakes and solid steel wheels.
Dry van trailers for sale are equipped with air brakes designed for hauling heavy loads. This kind of brake is more powerful and can handle the weight of the cargo. The wheels are also strong, made of solid steel for added support and safety.
The trailer’s wheels, axles, suspension system, steering system, and braking system must all be in good working order to haul heavy cargo safely. For example, you should properly adjust the brakes to allow for a complete stop. If this is not the case, the trailer will likely be pulled over for inspection.
5. The weight limit of dry van trailers can also depend on the weather.
If you’re hauling heavy items in a dry van trailer during hot summer days or cold winter days, it’s important to make sure that the tires are fully inflated and not overloaded. If not, you run the risk of popping a tire or damaging the wheel.
Tires should be checked before each trip to ensure that they are properly inflated and safe for use. When hauling heavy loads in dry van trailers, the load must be spread evenly across all axles. This is especially important when driving on long trips in hot weather or on cold winter days.
If the load is not evenly distributed, uneven wear and tear may potentially damage the cargo. It is also important to check the air pressure in tires before each trip and adjust accordingly.
It is important to follow these tips for safety. All drivers must know and follow all federal, state and local laws regarding the weight that can be carried on a trailer as well as the weight that can be carried on each axle.
In addition to following the law, it is important to remember that your safety and that of others should always come first. You will lessen your chances of having an accident if you drive carefully and maintain proper control over your vehicle.
A dry van trailer is one of the most common ones on the road. Its name tells you that it’s designed to carry heavy, bulky items like lumber and steel, which could be dangerous if handled inappropriately. As a result, there are weight restrictions when it comes to dry van trailers.
To carry more cargo, you can always invest in a bigger truck or add another axle. To prevent accidents, you must also regularly inspect the tires and other parts of the trailer and load it evenly.
