Transportation by Truck: The Ultimate Guide

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Trucks are the backbone of modern transportation, carrying goods across the country and around the world. They're a vital part of the supply chain, delivering everything from fresh produce to electronics.

The average truck travels over 100,000 miles per year, with some drivers logging up to 300,000 miles annually. That's a lot of wear and tear on the vehicle.

Whether you're shipping a small package or a large load, trucks are the way to go. They're versatile and can handle a wide range of cargo, from pallets of goods to oversized items like construction equipment.

Truck drivers are the unsung heroes of the transportation industry, working long hours to ensure that goods arrive on time. They're responsible for navigating complex routes, dealing with traffic, and following strict safety regulations.

Types of Trucks

Semi Tractor Trucks are a convenient way to transport heavy duty trucks across the U.S. using specialized trailer equipment like step-decks and RGN's.

Credit: youtube.com, Different Types of Trucks and Their Uses

Dry van trucks are the most commonly used trucks in the United States, recognizable by their fully enclosed trailers. They're a staple in the supply chain, typically used to transport non-perishable goods.

Dry vans are versatile, but Semi Tractor Trucks have their own unique advantages, especially when it comes to transporting heavy loads safely and easily.

Versatility

Shipping trucks can be a complex process, but one of the benefits is the versatility of truck transportation.

Dry van trucks are the most commonly used trucks in the United States, recognizable by their fully enclosed trailers. They're used to transport non-perishable goods, making them a staple in the supply chain.

We can transport a variety of trucks, including semi-tractor trucks and dually trucks, regardless of their size. Our experienced drivers ensure a safe and easy loading and unloading of these heavy-duty trucks.

With the use of specialized trailer equipment like step-decks and RGN's, we can handle even the largest trucks. This includes lifted and modified dually trucks, which require extra care and attention.

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Shipping a dually truck is not the same as shipping a car, but our company excels in handling such large trucks. We offer a range of roadway transportation solutions, including bulk transport, TL transport, LTL transport, and courier services.

Our services can be adapted to any and all needs, providing a wider range of options for truck transportation. Whether you need to transport a semi-tractor truck or a dually truck, we have the expertise and equipment to get the job done.

Flatbed

Flatbeds are a common sight on U.S. highways, known for their open design that allows for easy loading and unloading from all sides.

Flatbed trailers typically range from 48~53 feet in length and are usually around 8.5 feet wide. Flatbeds don't have sides or a roof, which makes them ideal for carrying oversized or irregularly shaped cargo.

The open design of flatbeds requires cargo to be secured with straps, chains, or tarps to prevent shifting during transit. This is crucial for transporting large, heavy, or awkwardly shaped goods.

Credit: youtube.com, 3 Types of Semi-Trailer Flatbeds | How to Buy the Best Flatbed Trailer

Flatbeds are essential for transporting construction materials like steel beams, lumber, and concrete pipes. They're also used to haul oversized loads, such as prefabricated homes and large industrial tanks.

Without flatbeds, many large-scale infrastructure projects would be difficult, if not impossible, to complete. Their versatility in handling a variety of load types makes them indispensable in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors.

Lowboy

Lowboy trucks are a type of flatbed trailer designed to transport heavy and oversized equipment that can't be carried by standard flatbeds or step decks.

Their low profile makes them the go-to option for transporting tall and heavy machinery, with a deck height of 12~18 inches above the ground.

Lowboy trailers typically have two drops in deck height, one after the gooseneck and one before the rear wheels.

They can carry loads weighing up to 80,000 pounds or more, depending on the number of axles.

Lowboy trucks are commonly used to transport heavy construction equipment like bulldozers and excavators, as well as industrial equipment and oversized items.

Their ability to carry extremely heavy and oversized loads makes them indispensable for moving large machinery to and from job sites.

Without lowboys, the transport of such equipment would require disassembly or specialized shipping methods, significantly increasing costs and time.

What is?

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Truck transport is a type of land transport used to convey goods or people. It's a crucial part of logistics, involving the shipment and delivery of products.

In the world of logistics, truck transport is often referred to as RFT, or Road Freight Transport. This term is commonly used to describe the transport of goods within a country or around the world.

Truck transport is fully integrated in the supply chain, which means it's a key part of a much wider offer including transport, handling, storage, and possibly even packing and packaging.

Specialized Equipment

We use flatbeds, step-decks, RGNs, and lowboy trailers to handle oversized, heavy-duty truck shipments safely and efficiently.

Our equipment is designed to accommodate a wide range of oversized loads, from construction equipment to industrial machinery.

We have the necessary gear to transport heavy-duty trucks, including specialized trailers that can handle the weight and size of these vehicles.

Tanker

Tanker trucks are designed for transporting liquids and gases, and they play a crucial role in industries such as oil, gas, and chemicals.

Bright orange tanker truck rear view against clear blue sky, showcasing industrial design.
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Tanker trailers can hold between 5,000 to 11,000 gallons of liquid, and their tanks are often made from materials like aluminum, stainless steel, or carbon steel.

Tanker trucks transport a variety of liquid goods, including gasoline, diesel, oil, chemicals, milk, water, and other bulk liquids.

They're also used in the food industry to transport liquids like corn syrup, wine, and juice, making them a vital part of the agricultural sector.

Tanker trucks are equipped with specialized pumping systems and valves to facilitate safe loading and unloading of liquids.

Hazardous materials tankers require strict safety protocols during transport, and they're designed to handle dangerous substances like acids or chemicals.

The transportation of liquids is a specialized and essential service in many industries, and tanker trucks enable the efficient and safe movement of large quantities of liquids.

Utility

Utility equipment is a crucial part of many businesses, and transporting it safely and efficiently is a top priority. Our team has the experience and equipment to get your utility trucks to their destination quickly and safely, whether it's across town or across the country.

Photo of a Dump Truck Across Buildings
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We understand the importance of utility trucks to your business, and we're committed to getting them to their destination as soon as possible. Our goal is to provide fast and safe transportation, and we have the expertise to handle utility trucks of all sizes and configurations.

Truck transport is a complex process that requires the skills of many professionals, including those who load and unload, handle, and transport goods via road infrastructures. These professionals must adhere to strict regulations, including those related to authorized driving time and regular breaks.

Here are some key tasks involved in truck transport:

  • Loading and unloading
  • Handling (mechanized or manual)
  • Transporting goods via road infrastructures

These tasks are critical to ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of utility trucks and other specialized equipment.

9. Dump

Dump trucks are heavy-duty vehicles equipped with a hydraulic bed that can be tipped to unload loose materials like sand, gravel, or demolition waste.

They are commonly used in construction, mining, and waste management industries, where large quantities of materials need to be moved efficiently and safely.

Credit: youtube.com, Bigbags loading onto dump trucks with specialized equipment.

Dump trucks come in various configurations, ranging from smaller, single-axle models to large, multi-axle vehicles with a high payload capacity.

Some models are capable of carrying up to 30 tons of materials, making them ideal for hauling heavy loads on job sites.

In the waste management sector, dump trucks play a crucial role in the collection and transportation of waste, helping to keep cities and towns clean and safe.

Their ability to quickly unload materials makes them essential for the construction and mining industries, where time and efficiency are critical.

Dump trucks are used to transport bulk materials such as sand, gravel, dirt, asphalt, and construction debris, as well as in mining operations to haul ore and other raw materials.

Refrigerated

Refrigerated equipment plays a crucial role in transporting perishable goods. Reefers, also known as refrigerated trucks, are designed to maintain specific temperatures during transit.

These specialized vehicles are essential for industries like food and pharmaceuticals, where cargo integrity is critical. Reefers are used to transport fresh produce, frozen foods, dairy products, meats, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.

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Reefers can maintain temperatures ranging from -20Β°F to 70Β°F, making them ideal for transporting temperature-sensitive materials. The interior of a reefer is insulated to ensure temperature control.

Reefers are primarily used for transporting goods that need to be kept at a specific temperature during transit. They are also used for transporting certain types of chemicals and other temperature-sensitive materials.

The refrigerated transport industry is a vital component of the global food supply chain. Reefers ensure that perishable goods can be transported over long distances without spoiling.

Step Deck (Drop Deck)

Step deck trucks, also known as drop decks, are designed to transport tall loads without exceeding height restrictions.

They have two deck levels: an upper deck closer to the cab and a lower deck that drops down, providing more height clearance for taller loads. The lower deck typically sits about 3.5 feet above the ground.

Step deck trailers are usually 48~53 feet long and are equipped with ramps for loading vehicles and equipment.

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Their unique design allows for the safe transport of oversized loads that would otherwise be challenging to haul on standard flatbeds.

Step deck trucks are commonly used to transport heavy machinery, industrial equipment, vehicles, and oversized freight. They're ideal for industries that need to move tall and heavy equipment, like construction, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.

Step deck trucks are essential for industries that need to move tall and heavy equipment. Their ability to accommodate taller loads makes them invaluable for these sectors, where large equipment is frequently moved from one site to another.

7. Boxes

Box trucks come in various sizes, typically ranging from 10~26 feet in length. They have a cargo area that's fully enclosed, making them perfect for protecting goods from the elements.

Box trucks usually have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 33,000 pounds, making them suitable for medium-duty hauling. This capability is especially important for businesses that rely on timely and efficient delivery services.

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Box trucks are widely used for moving household goods, furniture, appliances, and other items. They're also commonly used by small businesses for local deliveries, such as distributing products to retail stores.

Their smaller size and maneuverability make them ideal for navigating urban areas and reaching destinations that larger trucks can't access. This is especially important for businesses like furniture stores and ecommerce companies that rely on timely delivery.

8. Car Carrier

Car carrier trucks are essential for the automotive industry, enabling the efficient movement of vehicles from manufacturers to dealerships or between locations.

These trucks are specialized vehicles designed to transport multiple cars simultaneously, typically carrying between 6~10 vehicles at a time.

Car carrier trailers are two-tiered, with hydraulic ramps that allow vehicles to be loaded onto both levels, making it convenient to transport various vehicle sizes.

Some car carrier models are enclosed to protect high-value vehicles from weather and road debris, providing an added layer of security during transportation.

Credit: youtube.com, How to load an Auto Transport

Car carrier trucks are primarily used by automotive manufacturers, dealerships, and car rental companies to transport vehicles over long distances.

They also play a key role in the secondary market, transporting used cars between auctions, dealerships, and buyers, ensuring a steady flow of inventory to meet consumer demand.

The efficiency of car carriers is crucial for the automotive supply chain, facilitating the distribution of new vehicles from factories to dealerships across the country.

10. Garbage

Garbage trucks are specialized vehicles designed for the collection and transportation of waste. They're a common sight in residential and commercial areas, playing a crucial role in waste management and public health.

Garbage trucks come in various types, including front loaders, rear loaders, and side loaders. Each is designed for different types of waste collection.

Some garbage trucks feature automated arms that can lift and empty trash bins without manual labor. This makes the collection process more efficient.

Red Dump Truck Near Filed Rocks Under Cloudy Sky
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Larger garbage trucks are used for commercial waste collection, while smaller ones are used for residential routes. The size of the truck depends on the type of waste being collected.

Garbage trucks are used by municipalities and private waste management companies to collect and transport waste to landfills, recycling centers, or waste treatment facilities.

Shipping Services

Nationwide United is a trusted leader in the vehicle shipping industry, suitable for all types of heavy duty truck shipping. We offer reliable and efficient truck transport services, capable of handling large commercial trucks.

We frequently ship a wide variety of trucks, including standard trucks, pickup trucks, and commercial trucks, as well as specialized vehicles like tank trucks, tow trucks, and tractor units.

Our truck transporters are equipped to handle large heavy duty trucks, including dually trucks, garbage trucks, box trucks, and utility trucks. We can even transport dump trucks, fire trucks, and multi-stop trucks.

Services

Nationwide United is a leader in the vehicle shipping industry, providing reliable truck transport services for all types of heavy duty trucks. We have the experience and equipment to get the job done, whether you need to ship a truck across town or cross-country.

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Our truck transporters frequently ship a wide range of vehicles, including standard trucks, pickup trucks, commercial trucks, tank trucks, and many others. Here is a list of some of the types of trucks we can transport:

  • Standard Trucks
  • Pickup Trucks
  • Commercial Trucks
  • Tank Trucks
  • Tow Trucks
  • Tractor Units
  • Heavy Duty Trucks
  • Dually Trucks
  • Garbage Trucks
  • Box Trucks
  • Refrigerator Trucks
  • Utility Trucks
  • Dump Trucks
  • Fire Trucks
  • Multi-Stop Trucks

We offer expedited transport services for those who need fast shipping, including same-day and next-day pickup when available.

Cost for Shipping

Shipping costs can vary greatly depending on several factors. The type of truck being shipped is a major consideration, with different models and years affecting the price.

The dimensions of the truck, including length, height, width, and weight, must be verified to ensure an accurate quote. This is crucial in determining the cost of shipping.

Attachments on the truck, such as a roof rack or tool box, can also impact the shipping cost. Commercial trucks often have additional features that need to be taken into account.

The route the truck will be traveling is another significant factor, with longer distances and more complex routes increasing the cost. Shipping to Hawaii, for example, may require special considerations.

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A schedule for pickup and delivery can also affect the cost, with early or late pickups and deliveries potentially incurring additional fees.

To get an accurate quote, you'll need to provide information about the pickup and delivery locations, ensuring there is enough space for the driver to safely load and unload the truck. Our carriers are generally 80 feet in length, so ample space is necessary.

Here's a breakdown of the key factors that affect shipping costs:

  • Truck Type – Year, make, and model
  • Truck Dimensions – Length, height, width, and weight
  • Condition of Truck – Operable or non-running
  • Attachments – Any additional features on the truck
  • Route – Distance and complexity of the route
  • Schedule – Pickup and delivery times
  • Pickup/Delivery Location – Space required for loading and unloading

International

International shipping is a vital part of global trade, and trucks play a significant role in this process.

About 60.8 percent of all freight moved between the United States and its NAFTA partners, Mexico and Canada, was moved by truck in May 2013.

This statistic reflects a slow but steady increase of about one to two percent each year since the low of the recession in 2009.

Truck transportation is a major industry, with a significant impact on the economy.

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics tracks this data annually, providing valuable insights into the state of international truck transportation.

Expertise and Trust

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We're a trusted leader among commercial truck shipping companies, providing reliable truck transport services across the U.S. Our extensive experience and knowledge of the industry enable us to efficiently handle even the most complex transportation needs.

We've built a reputation for being a trusted truck transport company, with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and timely delivery. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a loyal customer base and a reputation for reliability.

We're proud of our expertise and trust that we've established with our customers, and we're constantly working to improve our services to meet their evolving needs.

We’re Experts

Our team has years of experience handling truck hauling, ensuring every pickup and delivery is done with professionalism.

This level of expertise is what sets us apart from others in the industry. With years of experience, our team ensures your truck hauling is handled with professionalism, from pickup to delivery.

Why We're Trusted

Red and White Fire Truck
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We've worked hard to establish ourselves as a trusted leader among commercial truck shipping companies. Our reliable truck transport services cover the entire U.S.

We provide services across the country, which means we're well-equipped to handle any shipping need. We're a trusted choice for businesses and individuals alike.

Our commitment to reliability is unwavering, and we take pride in our ability to deliver on time. We're a trusted partner for those who need to get their goods from point A to point B.

We've built a reputation for being dependable and efficient, and we intend to keep it that way.

Regulations

Regulations play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient transportation by truck. The Geneva Convention, also known as CMR, was signed in 1956 and enforced in 1958, setting the stage for international regulations on truck transport.

The Law on the guidelines for internal transport, dated 31 December 1982, provides additional guidelines for domestic transportation. This law is an important cornerstone in the regulatory framework.

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The Labor Code and French national collective convention on truck transport and auxiliary transport activities also contribute to the regulatory landscape, ensuring fair treatment of truck drivers.

Here's a summary of key regulations:

  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required to operate large trucks or buses
  • CDL endorsement obtainable by passing a specialized test
  • Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates daily and weekly driving hours
  • Truck drivers must adhere to a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.04 or lower
  • Federal weight limit for trucks is approximately 80,000 pounds
  • Truck drivers must ensure proper clearance for highway overpasses and bridges

These regulations are in place to ensure public safety and to facilitate smooth transportation operations.

Features and Benefits

A standard dry van trailer is usually 53 feet long, although shorter versions are also available.

The enclosed structure of a dry van trailer protects cargo from external elements such as weather, road debris, and theft. Some models offer side door access for easier loading and unloading.

Truck transportation offers flexibility, which is its major advantage in comparison to other means of transportation. This flexibility is due to the versatility of loading and unloading, as well as the ability to adapt to roadway conditions.

Transparent Pricing

Our pricing is refreshingly straightforward. We provide clear, upfront pricing with no surprise costs for our truck transport services. This means you know exactly how much you'll pay from the start, with no hidden fees or charges to catch you off guard.

Flexibility: The Advantage

Happy young woman posing in front of classic retro truck on a sunny day outdoors.
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Flexibility is the major advantage of truck transportation, thanks to its versatility in loading and unloading cargo.

Truck transportation can adapt to various roadway conditions, such as weather and traffic, making it a reliable option for your transportation needs.

This flexibility is enhanced by technological benefits and enhancements that make truck transportation more efficient.

Communication and organization have become notably improved with the use of technology in truck transportation.

You'll have direct contact with road transport experts and transporters who can advise and assist you in making informed decisions about roadway transportation.

Figures

Truck transport is a significant player in the logistics industry, and some figures help illustrate its importance. In France, truck transport represents 80% of all goods transported.

The reality of truck transport is that a substantial number of trucks are on the road empty. In fact, about 1/3 of trucks out on the road in France are driving empty.

The financial aspect of truck transport is substantial, with a turnover of 53 billion euros. This highlights the economic importance of the industry.

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Most goods transported by road in France are moved over short distances. Over 75% of goods transported by road are transported over distances smaller than 150 km.

Here's a breakdown of the key figures:

  • 80%: Truck transport's share of all goods transported in France.
  • 1/3: Proportion of trucks driving empty in France.
  • 53 billion euros: Turnover for truck transport.
  • 75%: Percentage of goods transported by road over distances smaller than 150 km.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the truck version of Uber?

GoShare is the truck version of Uber, connecting customers with independent truck owners who can deliver large items on demand

How much does trucking transport cost?

Trucking transport costs vary by type, with average rates ranging from $2.30 to $3.19 per mile. Learn more about the costs of different types of trucking services.

What can be transported by truck?

Trucks can transport a wide range of goods, including refrigerated foods, bulky equipment, passenger vehicles, raw materials, hazardous materials, consumer goods, and agricultural products

Darla Bartell

Senior Assigning Editor

Darla Bartell is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in research and journalism, she has honed her skills in identifying and assigning compelling articles that captivate readers. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, including Truck Dimensions and Regulations, where she has consistently delivered insightful and informative content that meets the needs of her audience.

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