What is Dry Van Shipping?
If you’ve heard the term “dry van shipping” before, it’s because this is the most common type of trailer used for shipping. If you’ve ever taken a long road trip, you have probably seen a dry van. It’s simply a large container attached to a truck that’s used to ship just about anything you can imagine. If you’re interested in a trailer, the key is to ensure you choose the right type. Let’s take a closer look at dry van shipping.
About Dry Van Shipping
Technically, the part of the vehicle that’s considered a dry van is the part connected to the truck (the trailer). Generally, they’re used to carry cargo, such as boxes, pallets, equipment, and many other items. Dry van shipping is not the same as refrigerated shipping. If you need to carry items like foods that are perishable, you’ll need a refrigerated trailer, which is also called a reefer.
While you won’t use a dry van for perishable items, you can use it for just about anything else. This includes non-perishable packaged foods, electronics, furniture, machinery, shoes, and clothing. These are just some of the items that are often shipped using a dry van. In fact, finding used dry vans for sale is great if you want a convenient way to transport cargo.
Various Uses for Trailers
Dry vans are used across industries, including technology, automotive, manufacturing, entertainment, consumer goods, wellness, and cosmetics. They are used by independent contractors, construction companies, home builders, and landscapers, among others. As previously mentioned, you can certainly use a dry van for food as long as it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. If you’re concerned about the financial aspect of buying a van, you can find used dry vans for sale that accommodate your specific needs.
In addition to being highly functional and convenient, another reason why dry vans are used is that they’re everywhere. In fact, you can find the perfect used dry vans for sale that are exactly what you want. Whether you decide to buy or lease will depend on the purposes for which it’s being acquired and how long you’ll need to use it. After weighing the pros and cons, it could very well be more beneficial to purchase a van than rent one.
Benefits of Using a Dry Van
In addition to the benefits already mentioned, a dry van can be used for personal or commercial purposes. They’re more versatile than other options, which is why they’re the most popular type of van used for shipping cargo. It’s a great way to protect the items you’re transporting. This includes protection from the environment and from theft. If you have a business that requires the consistent transportation of cargo, buying a dry van is probably the most logical solution. In fact, it’s how some professionals in logistics lower their shipping costs.
Common Dry Van Sizes
There are a variety of dry van sizes available that typically range from 28 feet trailers to 53 feet trailers, which includes several sizes in between. A dry van trailer that’s 28 feet can generally accommodate freight that weighs as much as 22,500 pounds. You can fit up to 14 standard-sized pallets in this size van. If you choose a dry van that’s 53 feet, you can transport up to 45,000 pounds and 26 standard pallets.
If you’re trying to make a decision between flatbed and dry van transportation, you’ll likely find that a dry van is a better option. As mentioned, it’s a lot more versatile and will protect your cargo better than a flatbed since it’s enclosed and won’t be impacted by the weather. Unless you’re moving items like heavy equipment or lumber, buying a dry van is an investment that will likely yield a greater return than other options.
When inquiring about a dry van, make sure you communicate the purpose for which you’ll be using it and how long you’ll need to keep it. This will help to determine whether buying or renting is the best option from a financial perspective.
