Choosing the Right Truck for Full Truck Load Transport
Full Truck Load (FTL) transport is often the best option when transporting large quantities of goods. This method involves using a dedicated truck to transport an entire shipment of goods from one point to another.
With FTL transport, customers can avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple shipments or sharing space with other companies’ cargo.
However, choosing the right truck for FTL transport is crucial to ensure the cargo arrives at its destination safely and on time. Here, our freight shipping and trucking specialists discuss the different types of trucks used for FTL transport and help customers choose the best option for their cargo.
Types of Trucks for FTL Transport
There are several types of trucks used for FTL transport. The three most common are dry vans, flatbeds, and refrigerated trucks.
Dry Vans
Dry vans are the most common type of truck used for FTL transport. They are enclosed trailers with no temperature control, making them suitable for transporting dry goods such as electronics, furniture, and clothing.
Dry vans are versatile and ideal for both short and long hauls. They come in different sizes, ranging from 28 feet to 53 feet long and 8 feet to 9.5 feet wide.
One advantage of dry vans is they offer excellent protection against theft and damage from external elements such as weather conditions and road debris. Their large cargo capacity means freight delivery providers can use them to transport bulky items that can’t be shipped by other means.
Flatbeds
Flatbeds are another type of truck used for FTL transport. They have an open flat trailer bed with no sides or roof, making them ideal for transporting oversized cargo that cannot fit inside a standard enclosed trailer.
They come in different sizes, ranging from 48 feet to 53 feet long and 8 feet to 8.5 feet wide. Flatbeds are used for transporting construction materials, heavy machinery, and large equipment.
One advantage of flatbeds is they can be loaded and unloaded quickly, saving time and reducing labour costs. However, they do not provide any protection from weather conditions or theft, and you must secure cargo properly to prevent it from shifting during transport.
Refrigerated Trucks
Refrigerated trucks, also known as reefer trucks, are used for transporting perishable goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive products.
They come in different sizes, ranging from 28 feet to 53 feet long and 8 feet to 9.5 feet wide. They have a temperature-controlled environment that can maintain the required temperature for the cargo during transit.
One advantage of refrigerated trucks is maintaining a constant temperature throughout the journey, ensuring the cargo arrives in good condition. They also have a built-in monitoring system that can alert the driver in case of any temperature fluctuations.
Related Article: The Benefits of Full Truck Load Transport
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Truck for FTL Transport
Now that you know the different types of trucks used for FTL transport, it’s time to choose the best one for your cargo. Here are some factors to consider:
Size of Your Cargo
The size of your cargo is a crucial factor when choosing a truck for FTL transport. Make sure you choose a truck that is big enough to accommodate your cargo.
Dry vans and reefers are typically available in different sizes, so choose one that fits your cargo perfectly. And, if you need to move oversize or overweight cargo, a flatbed is your best option.
Type of Cargo
The type of cargo you’re transporting is also important. A dry van is ideal for non-perishable cargo that doesn’t require any special handling.
A reefer is the way to go if your cargo requires temperature control. And if your cargo is oversize or overweight, a flatbed is the best option.
Distance
The distance your cargo needs to travel is another factor to consider. If you’re transporting goods over a long distance, you need a reliable truck with a good track record. Make sure you choose a reputable FTL transport company that uses well-maintained trucks.
Cost
Cost is always a factor to consider when transporting goods. FTL transport can be expensive, so choose a truck that fits your budget.
Dry vans are typically the cheapest option, followed by flatbeds and reefers. However, the cost also depends on the distance and type of cargo being transported.
Related Article: What Does LTL Stand for? Understanding Less Than Truckload Shipping
Final Thoughts
FTL transport is an excellent option for transporting large quantities of goods. When choosing the right truck for FTL transport, it’s essential to consider the type of cargo being transported, the distance of the journey, and your budget.
It’s important to choose a reputable FTL transport company that uses well-maintained trucks to ensure your cargo’s safe and timely delivery. Ontario Container Transport offers FTL transport services using state-of-the-art trucks and experienced drivers. Our fleet includes dry vans, flatbeds, and refrigerated trucks to meet your cargo requirements.
We prioritize safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, making us the best choice for your FTL transport needs. Consider the abovementioned factors and choose us for reliable and cost-effective transport services.
