What do you know about semi-trucks and trailers? Can you name the different types and what they might be used for? If you’re shopping for a rig and the different terms have you feeling a bit lost, here’s a brief introduction to the different types of trucks and trailers you see on the road.

Trucks, Trailers, and 18-Wheelers

You might hear the terms truck, trailer, and 18-wheeler used interchangeably. While that’s generally fine, in practice, it’s valuable to be familiar with a more specific definition for each term.

Semi-Truck: Semi-truck is the term that refers to the front of the truck, also known as the tractor or the cab. The semi-truck houses the engine and the driver, plus possibly some amenities for the driver, depending on the type of semi-truck it is. Semi-trucks will have limitations surrounding what they can pull based on their weight limits, towing capacities, and horsepower.

Semi-Trailer: The semi-trailer is the part of the truck that hauls the load. Semi-trailers are detachable from the semi-truck and come in different shapes, sizes, and configurations to fit the load.

18-Wheeler: An 18-wheeler is a semi-truck and a semi-trailer fitted together. You might also hear these referred to as tractor-trailers since they are, in fact, tractors and trailers attached together. Semi-trucks can be attached to almost any trailer.

Now let’s look at the different types of tractors and trailers you can find at Jerry Vehicle.

Semi-Trailer. When it comes to selecting a semi-trailer, the cargo is the primary consideration. Each type of trailer is best suited to a specific type of cargo.

Flatbed. A flatbed trailer is a flat, open trailer that can carry secured loads of carrying size and shape.

Lowboy. Lowboys are flatbed trailers mounted below the level of the wheels. The low mounting position makes it possible to haul exceptionally tall equipment. These also come in removable gooseneck models that make attaching the trailer to the truck easier.

Reefer. A reefer is slang for a “refrigerated” trailer. Reefers carry cargo that needs to stay cold during transit.

Conestoga. Conestoga trailers are open trailers with a full-length tarp system.

Dry Van. A dry van is a standard rectangular shipping container.

Stretch Double Drop. These trailers can be extended in order to haul long, oversized equipment

Multi-Car. This trailer has multiple cars for hauling extra loads.

Sidekit. A sidekit trailer is equipped with plywood or metal sides to keep the contents contained as well as metal arches for attaching covers.

Dumps or tippers. These trailers tip to disperse their contents.

Tankers. These trailers are equipped with tanks for hauling large amounts of liquid or gas.

If you’ve got cargo to haul, we’ve got the Semi-Trailer you need to haul it in. Give us a call today to see what Jerry Vehicle can do for you.