Dry vans are called this because they can keep freight and products protected from road debris and elements like rain and snow. Truck Makers Face a Tech Dilemma: Batteries or Hydrogen? A professional roll top Conestoga trailer shipping company will be aware of the differences in the state limits and what is required to keep your transport vehicle within the letter of the law. Welcome back to our series on How to Buy the Best Flatbed Trailer. Create a free driver profile to get matched to flatbed jobs. We know what the dimensional allowances are for every state and will provide any permits or escorts that are needed for your trailer transport vehicle. Conestoga Trailers can be independently accessed from all sides thus allowing drivers to add extra loads to the trailer, but without interrupting access to the freight which is already on the trailer yet to be delivered. Adam shared My biggest piece of advice is forget about the loads you might do once a year and think about the extra loads you will get from not having to waste time tarping or waiting in line to use a mandatory tarp station. For more information about other types of open deck trucks, you can consult the open deck trucks dimensions and weight guide, as well as the type of loads that are regularly transported on open deck trucks and the 5 open deck trucks FAQ. The trailer's rolling tarp-on frame structure is designed to protect oversized and specialized goods during shipment, keeping your cargo safe from external factors without compromising on paint, finishes, delicate equipment or other aspects of your cargo that may get damaged if a tarp is placed over the load. 2021Cowtown ExpressCowtown does not endorse and is not responsible or liable for any User Content. Instead of wasting time moving heavy tarps on and off a flatbed, drivers can simply strap down their load and shut the moveable curtain tarp for much quicker and efficient deliveries. The Conestoga Truck is a hybrid that offers the best of two worlds: the Dry Vans and the flatbeds. Further, independent access to all parts of a load at any point along a route means multiple drop loads are easily achievable from a single Conestoga trailer.4 All of these features allow drivers to be in and out and back on the road much quicker than standard flatbeds or vans. - Water Tank Trailer Transport. So, what is a Conestoga? Some of the trailer brands we commonly ship include: Heavy Haulers offer trustworthy and reliable transportation services for all varieties of freight including shipments of individual, commercial, and heavy machinery. Due to their specialized nature and features, Conestoga trailers are a bigger investment for shippers, but partnering with a 3PL provider could help alleviate the added costs of purchasing and maintaining their own assets. If it is not absolutely necessary to move your loads in a closed space, you can choose another type of open deck truck such as flatbeds, step-decks, and double-drops, these trucks have greater availability. Dry van trailers are easily the most popular semi-trucks. This accordion-like system maximizes your loading options allowing for rear loading, front loading, side loading, or even top-loading if needed. Below are the dimensions for a 48-foot double drop Conestoga: Trucking is a constantly expanding industry always looking for new ways to improve service, making it more efficient, cost-effective, and safe. - Conveyor Belt Trailers - Utility Trailers When you contract service through Heavy Haulers, you'll be asked about your cargo, its size, and its value. Inspired by the old covered wagons of the 1690s, Conestoga trailers provide the best of two worlds and offer some key advantages for shippers.1 The trailers utilize a moveable tarp system to maximize space for a large variety of loads, which has made them one of the most in-demand specialized trailers in the industry. Also, the states your roll top Conestoga trailer travels through will determine the need for any permits or escorts required by state law. When compared with other specialized trailers, there are some key advantages of Conestogas that resonate with shippers. Get a freight transportation quote at DFW trucking company to see how we can help you with your future shipments. What if your cargo needs to be loaded from the side of the trailer or the use of a crane is needed to place the cargo on the trailer? It is necessary to protect the load from weather conditions. There are companies, such as Mexicom Logistics, which can pick up the day after receiving your notification. He shared his perspective on the amount of time he saves and advice for other Conestoga flatbed truck drivers. We are experienced in handling all types of brands and manufacturers, we have hands-on experience shipping all trailer manufacturers there is on the road! We talked to Adam, a Conestoga Flatbed Driver for his company Adam Graham Transport. Another advantage of choosing another type of open deck truck, such as flatbeds, step-decks, and double drops, is that the cost of transport will be lower than the cost of Conestoga Truck. A typical van trailer offers three solid side walls, a roof, and doors for shelter and security, while a flatbed trailer provides quick, unrestricted access to all sides of a load, but both trailers tend to be limited when it comes to the freight they can handle. wagon covered trailer trailers flatbed trucking types haulers side truck kit trucks freight transportation wagons height grain We know that researching and choosing the right one can be overwhelming, so weve put together some quick facts and figures to help you determine the right way to go. So, what does dry van mean? flatbed stretch trailers extendable trailer expandable dimensions rates freight standard flatbeds loads haul trucking companies truckload The tarping can retract fully for these loading and unloading requirements. They give the option to side load or rear load the trailer. Keep in mind that the exact specifications of each trailer can vary slightly depending on your provider; contact your provider to get more information. Because youre only working with a flatbed trailer, you can load freight from either side, or with a crane from above. Another aspect of the trailers design is that its used in conjunction with a loading dock; the dry van trailer is backed up to the loading dock and loaded and unloaded like that. All Rights Reserved. Though there are many different types of flatbed trucks, they all come with the same problem. - Boat Hauling Trailers Single handedly the most popular flatbed trailer you see being pulled behind a semi-truck these days is known as the dry van trailer. It also is still a protective shield against the roads and poor weather conditions. [Infographic ] Is there really a diesel shortage? We present you the Conestogas advantages, its disadvantages and the transport alternatives. Tarping loads is more labor-intensive and adds increased risk while climbing on and off of loads. With the ability to switch between flatbed-style loads and enclosed van loads, Conestoga trailers can enable shippers to serve a more diverse market boosting their bottom line, while helping to lower maintenance and insurance costs. Kits can be retrofitted onto any flatbed trailer. [Infographic ] Why US and Canadian firms are moving manufacturing from Asia to Mexico? Tel: 514-667-0174. What is the difference between a curtainside vs. flatbed trailer? - Dolly Trailer Transport On the curtainside trailer, the frame does not move, and therefore top loading is not possible. When considering Conestoga trailer vs flatbed, to keep goods protected from the harsh elements, a conestoga trailer, with its rolling tarp and ease of access, is the perfect choice. This tarping is used to cover the freight during transit and helpfully retracts to make loading and unload more convenient. Today were reviewing the differences between aCurtainside and a Conestoga Flatbed Trailer. Though they are the most commonly used trailers in the industry for transporting goods, dry vans arent always the right choice for every freight. Every freight has its specific characteristics and requirements, from size to weight to protective needs. You can check our Conestoga Truckload Rates here. They should know the proper permits and escorts that you may need in each state. These specialized trailers should not be overlooked for many shipments. While the dry van trailer still remains as the top used trailer for transportation in the shipping industry, the specific need for a trailer such as the Conestoga trailer still remains as a need for certain shipments and cargo. When it comes to enclosed van deliveries, having the independent access to all sides of the trailer with a Conestoga can maximize delivery routes into time-saving, streamlined operations.6. Unlike open deck trailers, the curtain on a Conestoga protects the goods from potential damage from the elements or road debris during transit. The unique structure alone makes shipping a roll top Conestoga trailer a challenge. But what is a Conestoga truck, and which type of Conestoga is right for your shipment? Shipping a roll top Conestoga trailer will be a much easier process if you consider a few key facts. - Lowboy Trailers | Max Length 53 ft. | Max Width 8.5 ft. | Max Height 8.5 ft. Beam Trailers Keep in mind that with Conestoga Kits, there are many moving parts and should be on a regular maintenance schedule to keep it in good working order. Conestoga trucks combine the advantages of dry vans and flatbeds. Efficient loading and unloading from the side and top. The biggest difference is that most dry vans dont allow for loading anywhere but in the back, while Conestoga trailers are great for use when a crane is necessary to place the products on top of the trailer or when the goods need to be loaded from the side. - Landoll Trailers If thats the case then the typical dry van trailer will not work for your situation, another choice could certainly be a flatbed trailer, but what if your cargo needs to be protected from the elements, or road debris? | Max Length 53 ft. | Max Width 8.5 ft. | Max Height 11 ft. Max Weight: 45,000 lbs. We are wideload experts! - Tri-Axle Trailer Shipping That is why, when the cargo has particular specifications, Conestogas often win in the Conestoga vs flatbed debate. Its also a good option if you have multiple stops to make. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. rgn gooseneck flatbed rates The Conestoga Kit is a great system if its well maintained and operates properly. A Conestoga trailer is one of the most versatile types of trailers available. Though dimensions are never fully exact, below are the general dimensions for these flatbed trailers: Step-deck Conestogas are a valuable asset when shipping large items. You are limited to the interior width of your tarp system. They will also know what to expect during transport and be able to handle any situation. Many trailer shipping companies offer only limited shipping areas, causing problems especially when hauling a roll top Conestoga trailer over a long distance. - Curtain Van Trailers Both are great options to keep your cargo protected from harsh elements, and both are an easier, safer way of tarping your load than climbing on top and manually tarping it. Independent access to all sides of the trailer also allow drivers to add backhauls to the trailer without blocking access to freight that has yet to be delivered, creating a unique advantage for both shippers and their customers.5, In addition to these benefits, Conestoga trailers also allow drivers to transport loads in a time-efficient way. You will also be in continual contact with your trailer transport team the entire way. Job of the Day: EnviroTech Services, Inc. The most common loads for Conestoga trailers are:3. Marben Acosta Teran oversees the overall international B2B marketing strategy for Mexicom Logistics. Mexicom Logistics 2017. We offer an extensive range of trailer choices, including: Max Weight: 48,000 lbs. Keep up the great work. Dry vans are basically enclosed boxes designed to keep cargo protected and be loaded from the back. A Conestoga flatbed comes in two length options: 48 ft and 53 ft. | Main Deck Length 29 ft. | Well Width 8.5 ft. | Legal Height Limit 11.6 ft. Max Weight: 48,000 lbs. If youve decided that driving a flatbed truck is right for you, consider finding a Conestoga flatbed trucking job. - Roll Top Conestoga Trailers Though not as common as step-deck or flatbed Conestogas, double drops are essential for freight that meets these dimensions and requires both the ease of loading and unloading with the tarping system. These trailers have a large height, width, and length capacity, and the curtain spans the length of the deck and has a weight capacity of up to 44,000 lbs. The sides are open to allow access for loading, and the rear swing doors allow it to be dock loaded, similar to a dry van. The tarping system can hide what is being shipped if necessary for security reasons. The amount of money and time saved along with the safety aspect of not having to risk falling off of your trailer come out to be worth way more than the couple higher paying loads that you can get with your standard flatbed.. The moveable tarp system can retract in any direction allowing for ease of access by multiple forklifts if necessary. flatbed stepdeck rgn lowboy freight truckload As mentioned earlier, these are very versatile. First, the dimensions of your trailer will figure in greatly when choosing the route for your transport to take. Subscribe to our newsletter and we will inform you about newest projects and promotions. With all of these specifications, the industry has provided an array of trucks and trailers to cater to them. 3PLs offer dedicated fleet solutions that include specialized trailers such as Conestogas, which can expand shippers capabilities and increase efficiencies in their supply chain. Conestogas are described as Curtainside trailers, meaning they have a retractable tarping system. If youre looking for a job like the one that Kelsey describes, let us help you find a great fit that meets your needs. Our trained logistics professionals make sure your load arrives on time, and in the same shape in which it departed. Its a heavier setup than the Conestoga kit because the system includes a roof, frame system, front bulkhead, and rear door. Canada, Email: [email protected] extendable truckload freight drayage flatbed To find out more, as well as how to remove or block these, see here: Our Cookie Policy. - Belly Dump Trailers | Max Length 29 ft. | Max Width 8.5 ft. | Max Height 11.5 ft. Max Weight: 150,000+ lbs. TRIAD1828 Centre 2 Cooper Street Camden, NJ 08102 877.634.3777, http://www.aeroindustries.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2015/02/Aero_ConestogaXPBrochure_091015_LR_ForRef.pdf, http://www.rolandcurtains.com/blog/3-benefits-of-curtainside-trailers. - Drive Away Services [Infographic ] An update on speed limits for trucking in Mexico, the US and Canada (mph and km/h), It is required to upload from the sides or the top of the truck, or it is an oversized and. - Portable Restroom Trailers With the ease of pulling the folding cover over the whole load and snapping it into place, this gets the driver moving faster. There are plenty of pros about this type of driving, and many drivers make a great career of it. A professional with the right experience will know the proper methods to use to prep, load, and haul your roll top Conestoga trailer in a safe and efficient manner. Over the years, the trucking industry continues to evolve, creating more shipping solutions to meet customer needs. Copyright 2022 Drive My Way. Conestoga trailers are a great example of the trucking industrys innovative solutions. Copyright 2022 FRC Logistics Inc. All Rights Reserved. A standard flatbed trailer does not allow for the same loading options, making crane loading and unloading, as well as loading from the side, impossible. What is a Conestoga flatbed? A curtainside trailer has rear doors like a dry van. These flatbed trailers keep your goods protected because they are essentially an enclosed box permanently connected to a trailer.