Common Trucking Types

Are you just starting your career in the industry of trucking, or are you looking to get one for your business? Choosing which kind of trucking job is the best for you may be challenging because there are various options. We’ll look at a few possibilities and go over some of the most prevalent kinds of jobs in the field.

The Truck for a Specific Job

As a general guideline, the information you’ll find here can be used for flatbed trucking and is distinct from other types of transportation. Platform trailers described below can handle freight that may surpass the dimensions and weights required for a particular state permit and even premium charges that must be paid before shipment.

Hot Shot

Refers to a type of trucking that utilizes a vehicle significantly smaller than that of a semi-tractor trailer. This vehicle is often called “less than truckload” (LTL). Although this definition can be applied to various truck configurations, the most typical instance is one-ton diesel that is towing a forty-foot gooseneck trailer. In most instances, drivers are expected to load and unload the freight independently and must take multiple trips to transport only a small volume of freight.

Dry Van

The dry van logistics company is the most frequently used type of trucking available to novice drivers. It is typically 53-foot trailers that transport dry or non-perishable goods in the most prevalent kind of trailer. These types of positions are generally easier to locate and have better availability.

The Reefer

These specially-designed trucking companies with refrigeration service are fitted with an air conditioner near the truck’s rear. They can be used to transport goods that require the right temperature. The driver expects that they will maintain and monitor the temperature settings.

Flatbed

It is a type of trailer that can transport anything, from airplanes to scaffolding-basically anything that cannot be transported in a conventional trailer. The driver is expected to pay special attention to securing the load and the security.

Low Boy

Also known as the Heavy Equipment Hauler, it is a kind of trailer that is very low in the middle and used to move taller or larger objects. Most require escorting cars, and the number of vehicles needed depends on the item’s weight and the area’s size.

Tanker

Tankers transport hazardous materiala cross the US. They are typically used for transporting liquids, including an array of liquids such as milk, gasoline, and more. When towing tankers, you require specialized training since the car’s center of gravity continually shifts. 

Bull Hauler

The vehicle is designed for towing trailers that have been purpose-built for transporting live animals. Bulls’ carriers are expected to be familiar with several laws and regulations. This adds a degree of responsibility and a higher amount of expertise.

Auto Hauler

A tractor-trailer pair is created to transport automobiles of various dimensions and shapes. Auto transporters, like bull haulers, carry additional duties and must undergo further education.

Container haulers

These transporters are accountable for transporting metal containers typically used for imports and transported via train carriages. Most often, drivers collect their containers from one port or terminal and then transfer them to another port or terminal.

Hopper/Grain Hauler

This trailer was built with the express purpose of emptying its contents. Hoppers are typically used to transport dry bulk commodities, such as corn and grain.

Conclusion

Trucking jobs involving reefers, tankers, flatbeds, low-boys, auto haulers, and bulls generally offer the highest pay. However, these jobs require a higher degree of education and certification. If you’ve determined what kind of truck driving job you’d like to pursue, this will give you an idea of what vehicle best suits your future company’s needs.