Know Your Ground Shipment Logistics Vehicles Options
An overview of the types of trucks used in logistics, from dry vans to reefers and beyond
Ground shipping, commonly referred to simply as “trucking,” is a transportation method made up of several distinct services and timing options, as well as specific vehicles best suited to particular types of cargo, shippers, or industries.
AIT has you covered on all types of ground shipment logistics vehicles
You can count on AIT whether your shipping requirements call for full truckload or less than truckload, delivery to rural areas or urban centers, or dry vans, reefers or flatbeds.
From transborder deliveries to warehouse management and more, we provide end-to-end ground distribution support tailored to meet your unique requirements, including white glove delivery options, hazardous materials handling capabilities and reverse logistics expertise.
Read on to learn about the different ground shipment logistics vehicles available to you and which type makes the most sense for your freight.
These trailers are not enclosed, with a body consisting of a level “bed” that is used to transport goods.
Because they aren't constrained by the walls of a typical dry van trailer, flatbeds don't necessarily need to back into docks, which can make unloading easier.
Cargo suitability
From piping to machinery, flatbed trucking enables secure transit of freight that can't be delivered in dry van trucks. Loading freight into flatbed logistics vehicles is faster and easier, simplifying the supply chain by decreasing turnaround times.
A "reefer" is short for refrigerated truck, often a refrigerated trailer which is hitched to a tractor unit. They are also used in intermodal and ocean transport.
Because reefers are designed to endure severe at-sea weather conditions, they're extremely durable, as well as tamper-resistant.
Cargo suitability
Reefer trailers are the ideal logistics vehicles for moving perishable food items, as well as other temperature-sensitive goods like pharmaceutical ingredients, vaccines, and fresh flowers.
This most common type of ground transport vehicle consists of a large, enclosed, rectangular trailer hauled behind the semi-truck. Most “box” trucks on the road are dry vans.
In addition to being one of the most affordable ground shipment options, dry van trucking containers provide protection from the elements, as well as theft.
Cargo suitability
Freight that can be boxed or palletized is ideal for dry van trucking, making it the standard choice across many cargo types and industries—from electronics to non-perishable food to furniture and much more.