What is a Dry Van?
Through our trucking partners, FreightCenter can provide high-volume discounts on dry van freight services. Get started with a free online quote.
Looking for a dependable way to transport your cargo? You’ve found it! Our Dry Van Freight Services are perfect for your shipments. With our experienced team and top-notch equipment, we’re the trusted partner you need for all your dry van freight transportation needs.
What is a Dry Van?
A dry van, also known as a box trailer, ships various dry and non-perishable goods. They are used to send both LTL (less-than-truckload) and regular truckload shipments. These trailers are attached to semi-trucks and are used to ship large quantities. This transit method is among the most common and popular bound-to semi-trucks. The trailer is called “dry” because they are made to keep products dry and protected from external elements such as weather and debris.
Dry Vans are made of galvanized steel, aluminum, iron, and hardwood. They are an incredibly versatile and cost-effective way to ship cargo, not to mention one of the most reliable shipping methods for everyday products. The freight is packed and wrapped on pallets for loading and unloading with forklifts or pallet jacks. Luckily obtaining one for your shipment will be easy, as most trucking companies have open availability for their dry vans.
This allows the entire logistics process to move along more quickly. These services are excellent for shipping on a budget because they do not require special operations or servicing, such as refrigeration or climate control options like insulation. Since this type of shipping is so standard, trailers will likely be nearby, resulting in quicker pick-ups and delivery.
Working With Jennifer Rendine has been super easy. I know that every detail will be taken care of with each and every shipment. I would recommend Freightcenter.com to anyone. 5 Stars!
It was very easy to do and priced right . The people I talked to were very friendly and helpful !
It was a great experience. Everything went very smoothly. My customer service rep was exceptional!
I have used Freight Center for 3 different pickups and so far everything has worked beautifully. I would highly recommend their services and the pricing is very competitive. Thank you Freight Center for the good job.
So happy using FreightCenter. Great service and the lowest price. My go to shipper from now on!
Easy to work with. Scheduled on line and then a CS rep called us to make sure all the details were in order to ship our product correctly to the customer.
Dry Van Shipping Awards and Endorsements
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics' Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Use A Dry Van Trailer?
Dry van trailers are a popular and practical choice for many businesses due to their convenience, versatility, and ability to protect cargo during transportation. It is the most popular type of commercial trailer in the United States. You won’t have to sweat regulatory compliance as they generally comply with standard transportation regulations and can be seamlessly transferred between various modes of transportation, making domestic and international shipments a breeze.
Protection:
When transporting goods, ensuring their safety and integrity is paramount. This is where dry van trailers excel – providing robust protection for your cargo throughout the journey. These trailers are fully enclosed, acting as a secure shield against various weather elements, such as rain, snow, dust, and even harsh sunlight. The protective nature of dry vans safeguards your goods from potential damage caused by external factors.
Versatility:
Dry vans are highly versatile and capable of transporting various types of goods. Despite not having all the fancy bells and whistles of other transit methods, dry vans offer excellent weather protection and high levels of security for cargo. From electronics and clothing to food products and household items, dry vans can accommodate a wide array of cargo, making them suitable for diverse industries. Dry van trailers offer the flexibility and space to handle different shipments efficiently.
Security:
One of the primary benefits of using dry van trailers is the security they provide for your cargo. These trailers are fully enclosed and equipped with sturdy doors that can be securely locked. This design ensures that your goods are well-protected during transportation, reducing the risk of theft, tampering, or damage caused by external elements. The sealed and lockable nature of dry vans gives businesses peace of mind, knowing that their valuable goods are in safe hands throughout the entire journey.
Cost-Effective:
Dry van transportation is often cost-effective for businesses and residential customers, especially for short-to medium-to long-distance shipments. Unlike specialized freight options that may require additional handling or special equipment, dry vans offer a straightforward and economical transportation solution. Their lightweight trailers allow them to carry a higher payload while staying within weight restrictions. Meaning more cargo can be transported in single trips, reducing cost overall. By leveraging the widespread availability and standard design of dry vans, businesses can optimize their shipping budget while benefiting from reliable, secure freight services.
Dry Van Dimensions
Box trailers can be found in various sizes to accommodate a range of shipment needs. The maximum length allowed for trailers is 53 feet long, with the most popularly selected including the general and pup trailers.
Some of the most common types include the following:
- 53-Foot Dry Vans: This type of semi-trailer is the most common van on the road. It can hold up to 45,000 pounds of freight and twenty-six standard pallets. Overall dimensions for this type of trailer are 53’ x 99″ x 110.25” trailers (LWH).
- 28-Foot Dry Vans: Twenty-eight-foot dry vans are called “pup trucks.” LTL products are frequently transported in these trailers. They can hold up to 22,500 pounds of freight, 14 conventional pallets, and have a floor space ratio of 28’ x 100″ x 109″(LWH).
- 24-foot Dry Vans/Straight Trucks: These semi-trailers are also known as box trucks and are commonly used for city deliveries. Most often, they include a liftgate. They are available in various sizes, but their dimensions are typically 24’ x 102″ x 102” (LWH).
What is Dry Van Freight?
The term ‘dry van’ refers to a semi-trailer fully enclosed to protect shipments from outside elements. Dry van freight can include full truckload freight shipping, partial truckload freight shipping, and less-than-truckload freight shipping. These services are the most economical truckload service without refrigeration, temperature control, or any other specialized service.
In the U.S., dry vans can also be called van trailers, box trailers, or semi-trailers. They usually run anywhere from 28 feet in length to 53 feet. Wabash National is a leading American-made semi-trailer manufacturer of dry vans, refrigerated vans, tank trailers, and platforms.
When to Use a Dry Van:
1. Moving non-perishable foods and beverages, textiles and clothing, electronics, plastic, and building products.
2. Transporting cars, motorbikes, minibusses, other automobiles, and components of bigger machines like airplanes and ships.
3. Relocating household goods, furniture, electronics, and more during moving.
4. Transporting small machinery and equipment in the construction industry to move raw materials from the warehouse to the construction site, or vice versa.
Are A Dry Van & Box Truck The Same?
Yes, a dry van and a box trailer are essentially the same. Both terms refer to a type of enclosed trailer used for transporting goods and cargo. They are fully enclosed, protecting the freight from weather elements and offering security during transportation. The terms are often used interchangeably in the transportation and logistics industry to describe this type of trailer. These trailers have solid walls and a roof, and they do not have refrigeration or temperature control features, unlike refrigerated or temperature-controlled trailers.
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions that meet their unique needs and to fulfill shipping demands from simple to complex with expertise, guidance and ingenuity.
Are you seeking a professional engine shipping company that offers competitive rates? FreightCenter provides specialized engine shipping services that save you money on every shipment. Our easy integration into your website allows customers to access our low rates instantly. With years of experience in engine shipping, we’re dedicated to delivering your engines and heavy auto parts safely and timely.
When your automotive vehicle parts or auto body parts need to be shipped as freight, FreightCenter can schedule delivery and pick up to save you time and money.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) freight shipping offers a practical and cost-effective solution for shipping electronics of varying quantities and sizes. By consolidating smaller shipments into a single truck, LTL freight optimizes space and reduces costs, making it an attractive option for businesses and individuals.
A Guide to Safe and Efficient Transportation. Find out the best transportation modes, route optimization strategies, and insurance coverage for secure and efficient solar panel shipping.
Have you ever wondered how construction materials like bricks, wood, cement and steel end up at building sites? Transporting construction and building materials is an essential part of the construction industry. When new buildings or projects are planned, these materials must be shipped from factories and suppliers to the construction site.
Whether it's a prized hunting trophy or a valuable museum exhibit, shipping taxidermy requires special care and attention. To ensure the safe transportation of these delicate and often irreplaceable pieces, certain guidelines should be followed.
Discover the process of shipping drones safely via freight with a reliable 3PL. Explore the potential of delivery drones to revolutionize logistics while understanding the regulatory challenges they face. Gain valuable insights to ensure secure and efficient drone shipping for individuals and businesses alike.
Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for its durability, beauty, and timeless appeal. Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner in the flooring industry, shipping hardwood flooring requires careful planning and consideration. From packaging to choosing the right carrier, this page will provide a comprehensive guide on how to ship hardwood flooring safely and efficiently.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Dry Van Shipping Is Easy and Affordable With FreightCenter
FreightCenter is where top carriers compete for your shipping business. No matter what kind of shipping service you need or where you are shipping your freight, FreightCenter will find the right carrier for your cargo based on price and service. To get started with your dry van freight shipping, run a free, no-obligation, instant quote and compare rates and transit times from top carriers. Need help? Contact a FreightCenter in-house shipping expert at 800.716.7608.
Dry Van Shipping FAQ
Q. What is a dry van?
A. A dry van, often referred to as a box truck or straight truck, is an enclosed trailer used to transport various goods securely. These trailers can carry anything from furniture to construction materials, making them ideal for reliable transportation services. Dry vans provide a safe and reliable option for hauling goods.
Q. Why do they call it a dry van?
A. A dry van is called so because it keeps cargo protected and dry from debris, weather conditions, and spills. These trailers ensure that the cargo inside remains safe and undamaged during transportation. So, the name “dry van” refers to its ability to keep the contents dry and secure.
Q. What’s the difference between a dry van and a box truck?
A. The main difference between a dry van and a box truck is the size. Box trucks are smaller, making them more maneuverable in local suburbs to deliver products directly to specific home addresses. This results in affordable shipping costs compared to using larger trucks.
Q. What does 53 dry van mean?
A. The main difference between a dry van and a box truck is the size. Box trucks are smaller, making them more maneuverable in local suburbs to deliver products directly to specific home addresses. This results in affordable shipping costs compared to using larger trucks.
Q. How is my cargo kept secure inside a dry van?
A. Your cargo will be adequately secured to prevent shifting and damage. Some standard methods of securing cargo include utilizing load bars, straps, chains, or airbags to ensure safe delivery.
Q. How do I track the status and location of my dry van shipments?
A. Your FreightCenter agent will be able to provide you with a tracking number to give you access to this information at your convenience. It is also found on your bill of lading as the driver will assign a pro/tracking number to your shipment. You can track on FreightCenter’s website.
3 advantages of using FreightCenter for Dry Van Services
Expertise and Experience:
When you partner with FreightCenter, a premier 3PL (Third Party Logistics) company with over twenty-four years of experience within the logistics industry, you are choosing success. Over the decades, our team has dealt with nearly every shipment imaginable. There is no shipment process we cannot help you with! FreightCenter employs a knowledgeable staff always willing to learn and grow with industry changes and advancements. We are ready to answer any questions you have throughout the entire process!
Extensive Network and Carrier Selection:
FreightCenter has a vast network of trusted carriers, including those equipped with dry van trailers. We secure the best transit carrier and route for you at the best price. There is no need to spend hours figuring out the logistics or searching for a worthwhile deal. The ability to choose from multiple carriers gives you the flexibility to find competitive rates and reliable services for your dry van transportation requirements.
Streamlined Booking and Support:
We act as the middleman between you and your carrier; you do not have to worry about playing phone tag with your trucker. Your agent will directly communicate with you and your carrier, delivering any necessary information or updates between you. We make it easy to ensure your shipments by guiding you toward the best providers. Whether you need full or partial coverage, we have you covered! We arrange the pickups and drop-offs while also making sure to track each shipment in transit. This ensures that you know where your packages are every step of the way!
