About Dry Van Semitrailers
Often voted the easiest to drive by truckers, a dry van semitrailer is an enclosed trailer that’s ideal for hauling non-perishables and other items that don’t require a temperature-controlled environment during transport. These trailers are typically capable of transporting up to 45,000 pounds (20,400 kilograms) of cargo, depending on the size of the van.

Wabash DuraPlate Dry Van Semitrailer
Sizes & Usage
The main difference between various dry van trailer models is size, as they can vary from 24 to 53 feet (7.3 to 16.2 meters) in length. Commonly available types include:
- 24-ft trailers, otherwise known as “box trucks,” which have a small loading capacity relative to other dry van semitrailers and are widely used for parcel deliveries in urban areas
- 28-ft (8.5.m) trailers that can handle to 22,500 lbs (10,206 kg) and 14 pallets
- 46-ft (14-m) models capable of hauling up to 43,000 lbs (19,500 kg) and 24 pallets
- 53-ft trailers capable of carrying up to 45,000 lbs and 26 pallets
Among the most popular items dry van semitrailers carry are non-perishable goods that need protection from environmental conditions but no other special conditions for transportation. Typical payloads include canned/boxed foods and grains, clothing and shoes, equipment and appliances, furniture and other home goods, and construction materials.
Dry Van Semitrailer Advantages
Although a dry van trailer may not be able to transport the types of large or odd-shaped cargo that a flatbed or lowboy can, there are many advantages to running dry vans over other trailer types. Here are some top considerations when comparing your semitrailer options:
- Affordability. Dry van trailer shipping and maintenance costs are cheaper as opposed to reefers or flatbeds. And some drivers also note that working on a dry van is faster compared to other tracks, which helps them clock in more efficiently.
- Efficiency. Dry van trailers have drops and hooks that allow drivers to drop off a container and hook it to another truck when needed. Not to mention that one can haul more freight and store cargo for multiple customers per load.
- Safety. The enclosed design and locks on the truck's doors help secure the cargo from environmental conditions, theft, and other unpleasant surprises.
- Versatility. A dry van trailer can accommodate all types of cargo, from construction materials and work equipment to packages, furniture, and even drinks and non-perishable foods.
Pro Tip: Dry van semitrailer drivers offer different types of delivery for their clients. For example, if one chooses a less-than-truckload (LTL) delivery, they will pay less but their cargo will be in the van with that of other customers. With full-truckload (FTL) shipments, everything is vice-versa, and the customer gets the whole van at their disposal, generally for a higher fee.
Your Dry Van Trailer Awaits
Whether you’re buying your first dry van or adding several to expand or refresh an existing fleet, TruckPaper.com is here to help. New, used, and even salvaged dry vans are available to fit your needs and budget. Listings include top models like lightweight, long-lasting Wabash DuraPlate trailers, as well as the industry’s broadest selection of trailers from popular manufacturers such as Great Dane, Hyundai, Stoughton, Strick, Trailmobile, Utility, Vanguard, Wabash, and others.