Various trailers and their uses

 

Various trailers and their uses

The trailer is one of the most important items used in the transport business, besides the vehicle that actually carries the engine. Transport companies, farmers and even those going on holiday or moving make use of trailers, but what trailers are most popular amongst those in the transport business? What benefits do they offer?

 

Multi-Car Trailers:

 

These trailers are used to transport cars, often up to eight cars at a time. These trailers can be seen driving along the R21 in Gauteng with a few new, locally built BMW X3’s fixed to the back, or along the N3 between Johannesburg and Durban. Most car-carrying companies make use of these trailers for quick and effective transportation, to get cars from our many manufacturing facilities to distribution yards and harbours for export.

 

Enclosed trailers:

 

One of the most common forms of truck trailers is the enclosed trailer. This trailer offers a long flat floor, that has been enclosed to keep goods secure. These trailers are used by a variety of large delivery companies who need to carry goods over long distances. Their versatility and affordability make them a common option for businesses.

 

Refrigerated trailers:

 

These trailers look much like the trailers mentioned above, but offer refrigeration functionality in addition to being enclosed. This enables transport companies to transport fresh produce or other items that need to remain cool. Most of these trailers are used by large supermarket chains to transport their items from distribution centres to stores across the country.

 

Flatbed trailers:

Flatbed trailers are also very popular especially with transport companies that specialise in the transportation of vehicles and other larger items. Some trucks have the flatbed attached - these smaller offerings are handy when dealerships need to collect a single vehicle. Larger flatbed trailers can be used for other transportation needs. Their open (or folding/removable) sides and flat load areas make loading and unloading relatively easy.

 

Stepdeck trailers:

A step deck trailer features a raised rear and front with the middle section relatively low to the ground. These trailers can carry heavy-duty machines that might end up being too tall if placed on a standard flatbed. The lowered load area also makes loading and unloading easy and effective.

 

Drop-side trailers:

As the name suggests, the drop-side trailer offers the user the ability to drop its sides. These trailers are very popular with farmers, to transport grain and other feed items. Once loaded, the trailer can head on over to its destination where the sides are dropped for quick unloading of goods.

 

Food services trailers:

These trailers are mostly used at larger events to supply food to attendees. Most of them are fitted with kitchens to allow for on-the-spot preparation of food. These trailers can be hired out, or in some cases, are owned by restaurant chains that offer food services at various events.

 

Tipper Dump trailers:

Used mainly in the mining and construction industry, tipper dump trailers allow for the transportation of heavy materials with the ability to hydraulically lift the load area to dump the content. This ensures quick and effective operation, with the ability to increase capacity as needed.

 

Extendable double drop trailers:

 

The length of these trailers can be extended to provide enough more space for equipment with long, relatively thin shapes. The advantage of this model is that in addition to the length, the height can also be adjusted. These trailers are well-suited to moving unusually shaped loads from one location to another.