The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Dry Van Shipping
Shipping is one of the most costly aspects of running a business. It’s not just the price of fuel but the cost of labor, equipment, and regulatory compliance that all contribute to making shipping an expensive proposition. Dry van shipping is an excellent way to move large or small shipments without breaking the bank.
What Is Dry Van Shipping?
Dry van shipping is a type of freight transportation where the goods are transported in a truck trailer that is not refrigerated. The trailer is dry, meaning there is no climate control, and the goods must withstand ambient temperatures.
Dry van trailers are connected to the semi-truck via a fifth wheel coupling. The dry van is the most common trailer used in long-haul trucking.
What Can You Use Dry Van Shipping For?
As explained by the experts at Hale Trailer, dry van shipping is an ideal solution for transporting non-perishable goods that don’t require temperature control. These trailers are typically used to ship boxes, automobiles, pallets, furniture, clothing, and other types of dry freight.
Reasons to Use Dry Van Shipping
Dry van shipping has numerous benefits, including:
Low Cost
The primary advantage of dry van shipping is the low cost. This option is typically cheaper than air freight or rail transport, making it a good choice for businesses on a tight budget.
Flexibility
Dry van shipping is also very flexible. These trailers can be used to transport a wide variety of goods, making them a versatile option for businesses that need to ship different types of products.
Speed
In addition to being cost-effective and flexible, dry van shipping is also fast. These trailers can cover a lot of ground quickly, making them a good choice for businesses that need to get their products to market quickly.
Protection from Elements and Theft
Another benefit of dry van shipping is it protects your goods from the elements and theft. These trailers are typically equipped with security features like locks and alarms, making them a safe option for transporting valuable goods.
Some Disadvantages of Dry Van Shipping
While dry van shipping has many advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider. These include:
Limited Capacity
Dry vans have a limited capacity, which can be a problem for businesses that need to transport large shipments.
Temperature Control
As mentioned earlier, dry van shipping does not include climate control; this can be a problem for businesses that need to ship temperature-sensitive goods.
How To Buy Or Rent A Dry Van?
There are several ways to get your hands on a dry van for commercial use. You can buy or rent a dry van depending on your needs and budget. Besides, many companies offer dry van transportation services, so you can hire someone else to do the driving for you.
A dry van commercial trailer rental is an excellent option, especially for businesses that require a dry van on a short-term basis or those shipping large loads. You can find dry van rentals at many truck rental companies and online. If you decide to rent, don’t forget to ask about the company’s policies on mileage and fuel use.
Mileage fees can add up quickly – choose a rental company with fair rates. Also, be sure to ask about the company’s policy on fuel use. Some companies will reimburse you for your fuel expenses, while others will charge you for the fuel you use.
Overall, selecting the right dry van transportation option can save your business time and money. With so many options available, you should do your research to find the option that best meets your needs.