When it comes to freight transportation, choosing the right type of trailer can make all the difference in efficiency, cost, and cargo safety. Two of the most commonly used trailer types are flatbed trailers and dry vans—each serving different purposes depending on the type of freight being hauled.

In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between flatbed trailers and dry vans, explain when to use each, and highlight key factors that influence the decision. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which option best suits your shipping needs.

What Is a Flatbed Trailer?
A flatbed trailer is an open-air, platform-like trailer without walls or a roof. It is designed to transport large, heavy, or oversized cargo that doesn’t fit inside a standard enclosed trailer.

Key Features of Flatbed Trailers:
✅ Open design with no walls or roof
✅ Can haul oversized or irregularly shaped cargo
✅ Accessible from all sides for easy loading/unloading
✅ Requires proper strapping, tarping, or securing of freight

Common Uses for Flatbed Trailers:
Flatbed trailers are ideal for transporting:

Construction materials (lumber, steel, concrete beams)

Heavy equipment (tractors, forklifts, generators)

Large machinery (wind turbine components, industrial equipment)

Pipes, scaffolding, and other long items

Since flatbed trailers have no enclosure, cargo must be securely strapped down and sometimes covered with tarps to protect it from weather conditions.

What Is a Dry Van?
A dry van is a fully enclosed trailer designed to protect freight from weather, road debris, and theft. It is the most commonly used trailer type for general freight transportation.

Key Features of Dry Vans:
✅ Fully enclosed for weather and security protection
✅ Standard sizes: 48 feet or 53 feet in length
✅ Rear-door access for loading and unloading
✅ Can accommodate palletized, boxed, or loose freight

Common Uses for Dry Vans:
Dry vans are typically used for transporting:

Consumer goods (electronics, clothing, furniture)

Food and beverages (non-perishable items)

Retail products (boxes, pallets, e-commerce shipments)

Manufactured goods (automobile parts, appliances)

Because dry vans are enclosed, they protect freight from external elements, making them ideal for fragile, valuable, or weather-sensitive shipments.

Flatbed vs. Dry Van: Key Differences
FeatureFlatbed TrailerDry Van Trailer
StructureOpen platform, no walls/roofFully enclosed with walls and roof
Cargo TypeOversized, heavy, irregularStandard-sized, boxed, palletized
Loading MethodFrom sides, top, or rearOnly from the rear
Weather ProtectionNo built-in protectionFully weatherproof
SecurityCargo exposed; must be strappedSecure and locked
Common UsersConstruction, manufacturing, agricultureRetail, consumer goods, general freight
When to Use a Flatbed vs. Dry Van
Choosing between a flatbed and a dry van depends on the nature of the cargo, security needs, and delivery conditions. Here’s when to use each:

Use a Flatbed When:
✔ The cargo is too large, heavy, or oddly shaped to fit inside a dry van
✔ The freight needs to be loaded/unloaded from multiple angles (side, top, or rear)
✔ The cargo doesn’t require enclosure for protection from weather or theft
✔ You’re transporting construction materials, heavy machinery, or oversized items

Use a Dry Van When:
✔ The cargo needs protection from weather and theft
✔ The shipment consists of palletized, boxed, or fragile items
✔ You’re transporting retail goods, food, or manufactured products
✔ The freight needs to be kept secure and enclosed throughout transit

Cost Considerations
The cost of shipping with a flatbed vs. a dry van depends on several factors:

Flatbed Costs:
💰 Typically higher than dry vans due to specialized equipment and securing methods
💰 Requires extra labor for strapping, tarping, and securing freight
💰 May involve permits for oversized loads, adding to costs

Dry Van Costs:
💰 Generally cheaper than flatbeds for standard freight
💰 Easier and quicker to load at docks, reducing labor costs
💰 No need for special securing, lowering additional expenses

If your shipment requires extra security or weather protection, a dry van is a more cost-effective option. But if your cargo is oversized or heavy, a flatbed is necessary despite the higher cost.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Trailer for Your Freight
The decision between a flatbed and a dry van comes down to what you’re shipping, how it needs to be loaded, and whether it requires protection.

If you’re moving oversized, heavy, or irregular cargo, a flatbed is the best option.

If your freight needs security and weather protection, a dry van is the way to go.

By understanding the differences, advantages, and costs associated with each, you can make the best transportation choice for your business needs.

👉 Need reliable freight shipping? Choose the right trailer and ensure your cargo arrives safely and efficiently! 🚛