When to Use an Open Trailer in Commercial Trucking

An open trailer in commercial trucking refers to a type of trailer that does not have walls or a roof enclosing the cargo area. It is essentially an open platform with wheels, typically with a flatbed or low-profile design. Open trailers come in various configurations and sizes to accommodate different types of cargo and hauling needs.

Open trailers are preferred for transporting cargo that is not sensitive to weather conditions or requires easy access for loading and unloading. They offer advantages such as versatility, ease of loading, and suitability for transporting oversized items. However, they also have limitations, such as lack of protection from weather and security risks for the cargo.

Types of Cargo Trailers

Here are some common types of open trailers used in commercial trucking:

Flatbed trailers

These trailers have a flat, level platform without any sides or roof. They are versatile and used for transporting large or oversized items, such as machinery, construction materials, and vehicles.

Lowboy trailers

Lowboy trailers have a lower deck height compared to standard flatbed trailers, allowing them to transport taller cargo, such as heavy machinery or equipment.

Drop deck trailers

Also known as step deck trailers, drop deck trailers have a lower deck height in the front section, allowing for easier loading and unloading of taller cargo while still maintaining a flatbed design for the majority of the trailer.

Utility trailers

Utility trailers are smaller open trailers used for hauling various types of cargo, including landscaping equipment, ATVs, motorcycles, and other goods.

Livestock trailers

These trailers are specifically designed for transporting livestock, such as cattle, horses, or pigs. They have open sides and sometimes a roof for protection from the elements, but they provide ample ventilation.

Car hauler trailers

Car hauler trailers are used for transporting vehicles, typically multiple cars, from one location to another. They have an open design with ramps for loading and unloading vehicles.

Dump trailers

Dump trailers feature an open bed that can be hydraulically raised at an angle to dump the contents at the desired location. While dump trailers are technically open trailers due to their lack of walls or roof enclosing the cargo area, they are often classified separately from other types of open trailers due to their specialized design and purpose.

Different Uses for Open Trailers

Open trailers are often used in commercial trucking for transporting large items or materials that are not sensitive to weather conditions and do not require protection from the elements. Here are some scenarios when an open trailer might be used:

Transporting bulk goods

Open trailers are commonly used for transporting bulk items such as construction materials (e.g., lumber, steel beams, bricks), agricultural products (e.g., grains, hay), or industrial equipment that are not affected by exposure to the elements.

Large, oversized items

Items that are too large or cumbersome to fit into an enclosed trailer may be transported using an open trailer. This can include oversized machinery, vehicles, or equipment.

Cost considerations

Open trailers are generally less expensive to operate and maintain compared to enclosed trailers. They typically have lower initial purchase costs and are easier to load and unload, which can make them more cost-effective for certain types of cargo.

Ease of loading/unloading

Some cargo may be easier to load and unload onto an open trailer, especially if it requires specialized equipment or machinery for loading, such as cranes or forklifts.

Regulatory requirements

Certain types of cargo may be required by law to be transported on open trailers due to safety regulations or specific handling requirements.

Short-distance transportation

For short-distance hauls where the cargo does not need protection from the weather or other environmental factors, an open trailer may be sufficient and more practical than using an enclosed trailer.

Open vs Enclosed Cargo Trailers

Open and enclosed cargo trailers are two distinct types of trailers used in transportation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the main differences between them:

Protection from the elements

Open trailers do not have walls or a roof, leaving the cargo exposed to weather conditions such as rain, snow, and wind. While some open trailers may have features like tie-down points or tarps to secure the cargo, they generally offer minimal protection from the elements.

Enclosed trailers have walls and a roof, providing full protection from weather elements. This makes them suitable for transporting cargo that is sensitive to moisture, temperature changes, or exposure to sunlight. Enclosed trailers are commonly used for hauling goods such as electronics, furniture, appliances, or perishable items.

Security

Because they lack walls and a roof, open trailers may be more vulnerable to theft or tampering compared to enclosed trailers. Cargo on open trailers is visible and accessible, which can make it a target for theft or unauthorized access.

The enclosed design of enclosed trailers offers increased security for the cargo. The walls and roof provide a barrier against theft and vandalism, and many enclosed trailers feature lockable doors and windows for added security.

Versatility

Open trailers are versatile and can be used for hauling a wide range of cargo, including large or oversized items that may not fit inside an enclosed trailer. They are commonly used in industries such as construction, landscaping, agriculture, and automotive transportation.

While they offer superior protection and security, enclosed trailers may be less versatile than open trailers due to their enclosed design. They are typically used for transporting goods that require protection from the elements or additional security, such as household goods, retail merchandise, or high-value equipment.

Cost

Generally, open trailers tend to be less expensive to purchase and maintain compared to enclosed trailers. They have simpler designs with fewer components, which can result in lower upfront costs and reduced maintenance expenses over time. Enclosed trailers typically have higher upfront costs due to their more complex design and additional features for protection and security. They may also require more maintenance to keep the walls, roof, and doors in good condition.

Ultimately, the choice between an open and enclosed cargo trailer depends on factors such as the type of cargo being transported, the level of protection and security required, budget considerations, and personal preferences.

Open Utility Trailers and Safety: It is Against the Law for a Child Under What Age to Ride in the Open Bed of a Truck or Trailer

Laws regarding the transportation of children in the open bed of a truck or trailer vary by state in the United States. However, many states have regulations in place to protect the safety of children, and it is generally considered unsafe for children to ride in the open bed of a truck or trailer. It’s important to check the specific laws and regulations in your state regarding the transportation of children in the open bed of a truck or trailer to ensure compliance and safety.

In most states, it is illegal for children under the age of 18 to ride in the open bed of a truck or trailer while the vehicle is in motion, regardless of whether the vehicle is on public roads or private property. Some states may have specific age restrictions or other requirements, such as using safety restraints or being accompanied by an adult.

Learn More About Truck Insurance

From car haulers to equipment trailers, insurance plays an important role in mitigating risk and providing enhanced protection. CTI specializes in commercial insurance for lightweight and heavy trucks. Contact our experts to get an instant quote. We will walk you through a wide selection of insurance policies depending on your needs and requirements.