Plated Trailers: What They Are and How They Can Be Used
Have you ever seen a trailer with smooth metal sides? That’s a plated trailer. These trailers are tough and durable, making them perfect for transporting valuable goods.
Plated trailers are used in all sorts of industries, from construction to logistics to manufacturing. They’re great for hauling everything from construction materials to industrial equipment to consumer goods.
Types of plated trailers: Choosing the right one for your hauling needs
Not all plated trailers are created equal. There are different types designed for different hauling needs. Here are a few of the most common:
Dry van trailers
These are the most common type of plated trailer. They’re used to transport non-perishable goods like electronics, clothes, and furniture. They’re secure and weatherproof, so your cargo stays safe.
Refrigerated trailers
These trailers are also known as reefer trailers. They’re used to transport goods that need to be kept at a specific temperature, like food, medicine, and other temperature-sensitive products. The refrigeration units in these trailers keep your cargo fresh and in good condition.
Lowboy trailers
These trailers are used to transport heavy and oversized loads, like construction equipment, machinery, and large vehicles. They have a low deck height and a detachable gooseneck, so loading and unloading is easy. They also have a high weight capacity and multiple axles to distribute the weight evenly, so your cargo stays safe.
Which plated trailer is right for you?
The best-plated trailer for you depends on your specific hauling needs. If you’re transporting non-perishable goods, a dry van trailer is a good option. If you need to transport temperature-controlled goods, a refrigerated trailer is the best choice. And if you’re transporting heavy or oversized loads, a lowboy trailer is the way to go.
Difference between Sheet and Post Trailer VS Plate Trailer
| Feature | Sheet and Post Trailer | Plate Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Durable and reliable | Not as stable as post and sheet trailers |
| Strength | Added strength and durability from wooden posts and sheets of wood or metal construction | Thinner walls may not be as durable as post and sheet trailers |
| Weight | Heavier than plate trailers | Lighter than sheet and post trailers |
| Cleaning | More difficult to clean due to exposed wood posts | Easier to clean due to smooth surface walls |
| Food contamination | Higher risk of food contamination due to exposed wood posts | Lower risk of food contamination |
| Price | More affordable, especially used | More expensive, especially new |
| Availability | Easier to find used | More difficult to find used |
Industries that use plated trailers
Plated trailers are used in many different industries, including:
Transportation and logistics
Plated trailers are the best choice for long-haul trucking, intermodal transportation, and freight forwarding. They’re secure, reliable, and can handle a variety of cargo, including perishable goods, hazardous materials, and oversized loads.
Construction and building
Plated trailers are also great for the construction and building industry. They can transport heavy equipment, building materials, and oversized machinery safely and efficiently, even in challenging conditions.
Agriculture and farming
Plated trailers are also used in the agriculture and farming sector to transport crops, livestock, and farming equipment. They’re durable and have specialized features to ensure that the goods are transported safely and securely.
What to look for when choosing a plated trailer
When choosing a plated trailer, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
Weight capacity and durability
Make sure the trailer can handle the weight and size of the cargo you plan to transport. You also want to choose a durable trailer that will last for years.
Size and dimensions
Choose a trailer that’s the right size for your needs. You want enough space to fit all of your cargo, but you don’t want a trailer that’s too big and difficult to maneuver.
Additional features and customization options
Consider the additional features and customization options that are available. For example, you might want a trailer with ramps, tie-down points, or specialized compartments. You might also want to customize the trailer’s layout to meet your specific needs.
What is a 102-plated trailer?
Have you heard of a 102-plated trailer? It’s a type of trailer that’s 102 inches wide and has thinner walls to give you more cargo space.
While you can’t carry loads that are exactly 102 inches wide because the walls are still an inch or two thick, an internal width of 101 inches means that each wall is only 0.5 inches thick. This makes it more efficient than other types of trailers, like sheet and post trailers.
If you’re in the shipping business, a 102-plated trailer may be worth considering for your next shipment.
