When I drive on the interstate, I often find myself contemplating the multitude of semi-trucks that share the road with me. From those hauling 52′ trailers to the ones transporting immense excavation equipment, their presence can be quite daunting.

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Finding the Right Type of Semi-truck Trailer

While it’s easy to get frustrated with these behemoths sharing the road, it’s important to remember that not all trucks are created equal. Despite their seemingly similar appearance, each truck may be carrying an entirely different load. This is due to the diverse range of goods being transported across the country via our extensive interstate system.

What does that mean for you? It means you’re probably not completely accurate in your road rage when you call every single truck a tractor-trailer. Turns out, different trucks tow different stuff, and they have all sorts of different trailers to accommodate the huge variety of products we ship everywhere. If you’re in charge of shipping some of those things, you’ll want to make sure you have the right truck for your load and the right trucking software to measure telematics data. Otherwise, your shipment might deliver a few tons of spoiled tomatoes because you left them sitting in the hot Florida sun in a regular trailer without refrigeration.

Different Types of Semi-truck Trailers and Their Uses

These are the different types of trucks on the road, what they’re good for, why you’d use one, and what limitations each has.

1. Van or Dry Van Trailer

Vans are what you probably think of when you think of a semi-truck. Vans are usually a 48’ or 53’ trailer pulled by a truck. By far the most common type of large trucks on the road, vans are the go-to trucks for practically everything. Most products that move from one warehouse to another will go on a van.

2. Flatbed Trailer

Flatbeds are perfect for things that are hearty, robust, and won’t get hurt in a little bit of weather. Oftentimes, flatbeds deliver building materials to construction zones because the cargo can be easily lifted up and off either side of the trailer. If you’re wondering what a flatbed is, it’s basically just a long, flat trailer, where cargo is ratcheted down on top.

3. Lowboy Trailer

Lowboys are like flatbeds, except the middle of the trailer dips down for extra height clearance. Lowboys are used to transport cargo that’s especially tall. The extra space from the middle dip helps give extra clearance on stuff like excavators, boats, and other industrial equipment with XL dimensions.

4. Reefer Trailer

By far my favorite name for a truck, reefer stands for refrigerated trailer, not that phase I went through in college. From heads of lettuce to artisanal kombucha, anything that has to stay cold needs a reefer. The way to spot a reefer is the large refrigeration unit in the front of the trailer.

5. Box Truck

Box trucks aren’t full-fledged semi-trucks. They’re more like the moving trucks you’d rent from Penske or U-Haul. Box trucks are smaller than a full-sized van. The biggest benefit of a box truck is that it fits where a regular 53-footer can’t. Most residential deliveries require a box truck.

6. Tanker Trailer

Tankers carry all sorts of liquid goodness. From milk to gas, tankers carry stuff that usually goes in a bottle. Fun fact: they’re also some of the most difficult types of trucks to book!

Additional Styles of Trucks and Trailers

1. Team Truck

Some trucks have an extra space behind the driver’s seat where people can sleep. Team trucks have a team of two drivers that take turns driving and sleeping. Team drivers can get a load from California to New York in two days – a trip that usually takes 5 or more! Team drivers move things across the country with a quickness only exceeded by an airplane – at a much lower cost.

2. Courier Van

Express deliveries for small loads might use a sprinter van or other smaller automobile via courier. They look sort of like a plumber van, but they move freight instead. If you just have a couple boxes that need to be delivered same-day across town, a courier could be your best bet. Typically, couriers only do deliveries in nearby areas.

3. Power Only Truck

Are you one of those weird people with a spare trailer full of stuff to move, but you don’t have a truck? Me neither, but if you were, you’d be looking for a power-only shipment. Folks that own a truck can pull up to your trailer, hook it up, tow the trailer where it needs to go, and unhook the trailer when they get there. Power only means you’re just paying someone for their engine to get your trailer somewhere.

4. Lift Gate

What happens when you need to deliver freight to a place that doesn’t have a loading dock? Easy, you need a lift gate. Lift gates are little elevators that fold underneath the back of a trailer to help get things from the trailer floor to the ground. Lift gates come on box trucks and some 53’ trailers, but you have to ask for them.

How to Know Which Type of Trailer to Use

There you have it! You’re now armed with the information to book the exact kind of truck your load needs. Are you shipping one box across town? Use a courier. Are you needing to get 20 pallets of Tickle Me Elmo’s from Seattle to New York in two days for Christmas? Get a van team.

The type of truck you need mostly depends on what kind of freight you’re shipping and where it’s going. Even if you don’t ship stuff, at least now you know how to identify and categorize all those different tractor trailer trucks out on the road.

6 Types of Trailers (and What They’re Best Used For)

Choosing the right trailer isn’t just about convenience, it can make or break the task at hand. Whether hauling equipment to a job site, moving personal items, or transporting vehicles, your trailer types directly impact safety, efficiency, and cost.

Trailers come in all shapes and sizes, serving a wide range of industries and personal needs. From landscaping and construction to farming and weekend adventures, there’s a trailer built for just about every purpose. Some are simple and open for light loads, while others are enclosed and heavy-duty, ready for demanding jobs.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at six of the most common trailer types, breaking down what they are, how they’re used, and which jobs they’re best suited for. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current setup, this overview will help you make a smart, informed choice.

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Choosing the Right Trailer Types

Picking the right trailer might seem straightforward, but getting the best fit for your needs involves more than just size or price. A trailer that’s too light won’t handle your load, and one that’s too heavy for your towing vehicle could lead to safety issues. That’s why it’s important to consider a few key factors before you make your decision.

Know Your Towing Capacity

Before anything else, check your vehicle’s towing capacity. This tells you how much weight your car or truck can safely pull. Going over this limit isn’t just unsafe, it can also damage your vehicle and lead to expensive repairs. Always match the trailer’s loaded weight (including cargo) to what your tow vehicle can handle comfortably.

Consider the Load Size and Weight

What are you hauling: landscaping tools, a car, a tiny home? Different loads call for different trailers. Make sure the trailer’s weight rating and deck size match the equipment, vehicles, or materials you plan to carry. Don’t forget to account for the total weight once the trailer is fully loaded.

Understanding Light-Duty vs. Heavy-Duty Trailers

One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a light-duty or heavy-duty trailer. Light-duty trailers are built for smaller loads and are great for hauling things like lawn equipment, motorcycles, small ATVs, or general tools and supplies. They’re typically lighter in weight, easier to tow, and more affordable—making them a solid choice for homeowners, hobbyists, or part-time haulers.

Heavy-duty trailers, on the other hand, are designed to handle serious weight. These trailers come equipped with reinforced frames, stronger axles, and higher weight capacities—perfect for moving machinery, vehicles, large building materials, or heavy-duty tools. They’re ideal for contractors, farmers, and those regularly moving bulky or high-weight items.

The choice between light-duty and heavy-duty comes down to what you’re hauling and how often. Going too light might leave you under-equipped, while overestimating your needs could mean overspending or putting unnecessary strain on your towing vehicle.

Think About How Often You’ll Use It

If you’re hauling every week for work, you’ll want a tough, reliable trailer built for regular use. On the other hand, if it’s only for the occasional weekend trip or seasonal use, a lighter-duty model might work just fine. The more you use it, the more important durability and ease of use become.

Match the Trailer to Your Terrain

Are you mostly towing on highways, back roads, or rugged job sites? Terrain matters. If you’re going off-road or into rough conditions, choose a trailer with a strong suspension, sturdy tires, and a reinforced frame. For smooth pavement, standard models might be all you need.

Match the Hitch Type and Setup

Your trailer and towing vehicle should connect securely. Make sure the hitch on your trailer (bumper pull or gooseneck, for example) is compatible with your vehicle’s setup. Proper weight distribution and secure connection are key to safe towing.

Dovetails

These trailers have a sloped extension at the rear of the trailer deck. Their gradual incline makes it easier to load low-clearance equipment, such as lawnmowers or sports cars, without scraping the underside. This feature is especially useful on flat deck, equipment, and car hauler trailers, where smooth and safe transitions onto the trailer are important.

Tilt mechanisms

This mechanism eliminates the need for ramps altogether by allowing the trailer deck to tilt. This creates an inclined surface so you can drive or roll equipment directly onto the trailer. It’s a key feature of tilt deck trailers, offering both convenience and time savings, particularly when you’re loading heavy or wheeled machines frequently.

Drive-over fenders

Drive-over fenders are designed to give you maximum usable deck width without damaging your vehicle or trailer. These reinforced fenders allow you to drive directly over them when loading wide vehicles, which is particularly handy for car haulers and some flat-deck models. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference when loading vehicles with wider wheelbase.

Ramps

Ramps are another essential feature for trailers that haul vehicles or heavy equipment. Typically foldable or removable, ramps allow you to drive or push your load onto the trailer bed. They’re commonly included with dump, car hauler, and equipment trailers, providing a straightforward solution for everyday loading needs.

Deck types

Deck types vary by trailer and affect strength, grip, and durability. Most trailers come with wood or steel decking. Wood decks provide a good balance of weight and cost while offering a grippy surface for equipment. Steel decks, on the other hand, are more durable and easier to clean but may be heavier. The deck material you choose should match the kind of work you do and the environment you’re in.

1. Dump Trailers

When hauling heavy loads like gravel, mulch, or debris, dump trailer types are essential for worksites. At Arrow Trail, we carry a wide range of dump trailers designed to handle tough jobs with ease. Whether you’re working in construction or landscaping, these trailers are made to help you get more done with less hassle.

Our dump trailers feature rugged construction from the ground up, with a 3/16″ steel floor and 1/8″ steel side walls, they’re built to take a beating and keep going. And thanks to the hydraulic lift system, unloading is as simple as pressing a button. No more shoveling or backbreaking work, just tilt the bed and let gravity do the rest.

Why Choose a Dump Trailer?

If your work involves transporting loose or bulky material, a dump trailer is the right tool for the job. They’re convenient for:

• Clearing out construction debris
• Moving dirt, gravel, or mulch 
• Transporting landscaping materials
  

The hydraulic lift mechanism is what really sets dump trailers apart. It lets you tilt the trailer bed up and down easily, making unloading fast and efficient.

Standard Safety Features

Your safety matters. That’s why every dump trailer we offer includes:

• ⅜” Grade 70 safety chains to keep your trailer securely attached
• Electric drum brakes for smoother, more reliable stopping power

These features give you peace of mind, especially when towing heavier loads on the road.

Lift Systems That Work With You

The hydraulic lift system is simple to use and powerful enough for demanding jobs. Whether you’re dropping a load of stone or unloading yard waste, it saves time and effort at every step.

Make It Your Own

Want your trailer to match your truck or business branding? No problem. Our dump trailers come in standard colors like black, red, charcoal gray, and white, but you can also choose from various custom paint colors, including yellow, green, orange, blue, and brown.

Looking for even more upgrades? We also offer:

• 14-ply tires and aluminum wheels for added strength and a sleek look
• Custom color options to fit your personal style or company colors

2. Flat Deck Trailers

Flat-deck trailer types are a go-to option when you need flexibility, space, and strength. With an open deck and no sides or roof, these trailers make it easy to load and unload everything from equipment to vehicles and long materials like lumber or steel beams. Whether you’re hauling gear for work or bringing home supplies for a project, these trailers are designed to keep up.

At Arrow Trail, our flat-deck trailers are made to handle the demands of real work. Rugged enough for construction, practical for landscaping, and reliable for farming, these trailers are built from solid materials and engineered for long-term performance.

Gooseneck Flat Deck Trailers

Heavy Duty with Dovetail

Need serious hauling power? Our heavy-duty gooseneck flat decks with dovetail are built to carry bigger, heavier loads without breaking a sweat. The curved neck gives extra stability, and the dovetail design makes loading equipment easier and safer.

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Light Duty with Dovetail

Looking for something more efficient for mid-sized loads? This light-duty model is great for business or recreational use. With 7K or 8K axles and a built-in electric braking system, it’s a reliable, smooth-towing option that helps you save on fuel without giving up strength.

Deck Over Flat Deck Trailers

Heavy Duty with Dovetail

If you’re moving tractors, construction materials, or furniture, this deck-over trailer gives you the space and muscle you need. With a wide, raised deck and strong frame, it’s made to take on just about any task.

Light Duty with Dovetail

For lighter hauls, this version has all the features you need with none of the unnecessary weight. It’s an ideal option for weekend projects, farm use, or smaller equipment, plus it’s fully customizable to fit your specific needs.

Bumper Pull Flat Deck Trailers

Light Duty 14K Deck Over

This trailer comes with a 35” high open deck and a bumper pull hitch, making it simple to attach to your truck’s standard towing setup. It’s a great option for hauling smaller machines or stacks of material.

Heavy Duty 14K Deck Over

Designed for those who don’t shy away from big jobs, this trailer is ready for the ranch, job site, or any task that demands durability. It’s built to carry wide, heavy loads with confidence.

Standard Safety Features

Safety isn’t optional—it’s standard. Every flatbed trailer includes:

• ⅜” Grade 70 safety chains to keep your trailer securely attached
• Electric drum brakes for smooth, responsive stopping and added control
  

Together, these features keep your haul steady and secure from start to finish.

Custom Features to Match Your Haul

Ramps From lawn tractors to heavy machinery, we offer a range of ramp options to suit your equipment and loading needs.

Lighting Add extra lighting for better visibility at night or early morning. Choose between load lights or double amber lights for enhanced safety.

Whatever the job, our flat-deck trailers are built to make your life easier and your work more efficient. 

3. Tilt Deck Trailers

Loading and unloading vehicles or equipment doesn’t have to be complicated. Tilt deck trailer types are designed to make the process simple, safe, and efficient. With a tilting bed that leans at an angle, you can drive your car, golf cart, lawnmower, or machinery directly onto the trailer without the need for ramps. If you’re frequently moving vehicles or heavy gear, a tilt deck trailer is one of the smartest investments you can make.

At Arrow Trail, we offer a variety of tilt deck models to suit everything from weekend tasks to heavy-duty hauls. Each one is built with safety, durability, and user-friendliness in mind.

Explore Our Tilt Deck Trailer Types

Drive Over Fender Tilt Deck

If you’re hauling large vehicles or oversized equipment, this is the trailer to go with. With a standard 102” wide deck and a weight capacity of up to 11,950 lbs, this model gives you the largest hauling space. Thanks to its drive-over fenders, you don’t need to worry about width, just drive on and go. It’s available in multiple lengths to suit your specific needs.

Heavy Duty Tilt Deck

This trailer might not be the widest, but it takes the lead in weight capacity, handling up to 12,030 lbs. Its 82” wide deck provides plenty of room for mid- to large-size equipment. Whether you’re working in construction, landscaping, or agriculture, this model offers unmatched reliability and strength.

Light Duty Tilt Deck

Need something lighter but still dependable? The Light Duty Tilt Deck is ideal for smaller equipment, featuring 3,500 lb axles and a 79” wide deck. It’s perfect for hauling mowers, ATVs, or compact utility vehicles, with a max capacity of 5,390 lbs. It comes in various lengths, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

Single Axle Tilt Deck

Compact and practical, this trailer is ideal for personal use—whether that’s hauling your dirt bikes for a weekend ride or transporting a golf cart. With a 77” wide deck and a towing capacity of 2,400 lbs, it’s the smallest of the bunch, but it still gets the job done in style. Easy to tow and surprisingly versatile, it’s a great entry-level option for lighter hauls.

Built-In Safety You Can Count On

Every tilt deck trailer we offer includes standard safety features like:

• Electric drum braking systems for smooth, controlled stops
• ⅜” grade 70 safety chains for a strong, secure connection between your trailer and tow vehicle

No matter what you’re hauling, these features help you tow with confidence.

Customize Your Trailer to Match Your Needs

Tires, Wheels, and Axles Depending on the trailer model, you can upgrade to 14-ply tires, swap in aluminum wheels, or add a spare tire for extra support on long hauls or rough terrain.

Hitches For standard towing, our 2-5/16” bumper pull hitch offers a secure and dependable connection. If you need even more support, especially for wider trailers, upgrade to a gooseneck hitch, available for select models like our 96” deck tilt trailers.

Why Choose a Tilt Deck Trailer?

Tilt deck trailers save time and eliminate the need for ramps or extra equipment. Whether you’re hauling for business or fun, their smart design, strong construction, and easy functionality make them one of the most versatile trailer styles available.

Need help picking the right model? Contact us, and we’ll walk you through the specs, features, and upgrades so you can find the perfect tilt trailer for your next haul.

4. Car Hauler Trailers

Whether you’re hauling a compact car or a full-size truck, having the right trailer type makes all the difference. At Arrow Trail, we’ve designed our Car Hauler Trailers to handle vehicles of all shapes and sizes with strength, stability, and ease. With multiple models to choose from, various size options, and fully customizable features, you’ll find exactly what you need to move your vehicle safely and efficiently.

Our trailers are more than just tough, they’re built with features that make loading, securing, and towing your car as smooth as possible. From rugged frames to reliable tie-down systems, these trailers are ready for the road.

Explore Our Car Hauler Trailer Types

Heavy Duty Car Hauler

If you’re towing larger vehicles like SUVs, pickup trucks, or multiple cars, this model is for you. With 14K axles, multiple tie-down points, and durable loading ramps, this trailer handles weight and wear with no problem. It’s designed to deliver peace of mind, no matter what you’re towing or how far you’re going.

Light Duty Car Hauler

Smaller job? The Light Duty Car Hauler is ideal for compact cars and light vehicles. With a max capacity of 4,730 lbs, it still comes equipped with essential features like tie-down points and loading ramps. The solid frame and strong wood deck offer dependable performance for everyday hauling.

Drive Over Fender Car Hauler

With a wide deck and 11,420 lb capacity, this trailer is perfect when you need extra clearance and a reinforced build. The drive-over fenders make it easy to load low-profile or wide vehicles without worrying about scraping or alignment. It’s a solid option when space and weight are top priorities.

Eco Car Hauler

Looking for a balance between strength and efficiency? The Eco Car Hauler can handle up to 5,830 lbs, making it great for mid-size vehicles. Like all of our models, it includes tie-down points and ramps for stress-free loading. Built with a tough frame and dependable flooring, this trailer offers great value and reliable towing.

Standard Features

Tires & Flooring

Our Car Hauler Trailers come standard with ST235/80 R16 radial tires, made for strength and stability on long trips. Combined with tough wood flooring, each trailer provides a reliable base that can stand up to everyday wear and tear.

Safety Features

Every trailer we build is designed with safety in mind. That’s why our Car Hauler Trailers come with:

• Electric drum brakes for smoother, more controlled stops
• ⅜” grade 70 safety chains to ensure a strong connection between the trailer and the tow vehicle

These features help keep your load secure, and they give you added confidence when you’re hauling down the highway or maneuvering through tight spaces.

Colors

Choose from classic color options like black, white, charcoal gray, or red. Want something that stands out? We also offer customizable colors so you can match your trailer to your brand or personal preference. Bright options like green, yellow, orange, blue, or brown are available upon request.

5. Tiny Home Trailers

When it comes to building a tiny home, everything starts with the foundation, and that’s where the right trailer makes all the difference. At Arrow Trail, our Tiny Home Trailer types are designed with strength, durability, and flexibility in mind. Whether you’re building a cozy getaway or a full-time living space, we have the trailer to support your vision.

With multiple sizes and customizable options available, you can choose the setup that fits your home’s design, weight, and layout. Our trailers are engineered to handle the demands of tiny home construction while offering a smooth, secure towing experience.

Explore Our Tiny Home Trailer Types

Heavy Duty Tiny Home Trailer

Planning a larger tiny home build? This model is built to take on the load. With a 13,270 lb capacity, it offers exceptional strength and long-term stability. Whether your design includes multiple rooms or heavy interior finishes, this trailer gives you a solid, dependable base to build on.

Light Duty Tiny Home Trailer

If you’re going with a smaller or more minimalist design, this trailer provides a strong yet efficient solution. With a 9,980 lb weight capacity, it’s ideal for compact builds that don’t compromise on quality. Lightweight but tough, it makes both construction and transport easier.

Standard Features

Tires & Flooring

Each tiny home trailer comes with:

• Durable, high-performance tires
• Sturdy, reinforced flooring
• A spare tire, so you’re always prepared for the unexpected

Our components are chosen with long-term reliability in mind, ensuring your foundation stays strong wherever you go.

Safety Features

We know how important safety is, especially when transporting your home. That’s why every trailer includes:

• Electric drum braking system for smooth, controlled stops
• 5/16” grade 70 safety chains for a secure connection during transport

These features are built into every trailer to give you peace of mind on the road and while parked.

Colors

Your trailer should reflect your style. That’s why we offer standard color options like black, white, charcoal gray, and red, plus a variety of custom colors, including bold tones like green, blue, orange, yellow, or brown to match your personal aesthetic or brand.

At Arrow Trail, we help make tiny home dreams come true. Our trailers are crafted for strength, built to last, and customizable to match your vision. Whether you’re just starting to plan or already breaking ground, we’re here to provide the solid base you need to build with confidence.

6. Equipment Trailers

When you need a trailer that can keep up with heavy-duty demands, you need more than just strength, you need reliability, safety, and flexibility. That’s where our Equipment Trailer types come in. We’ve designed our trailers to deliver dependable performance for hauling machinery, tools, and gear of all sizes.

Whether you’re in construction, landscaping, farming, or any line of work that involves moving heavy equipment, we offer trailers that are ready to get the job done. With multiple sizes, smart features, and custom upgrades, finding the right trailer has never been easier.

If you’re hauling larger or more rugged equipment, our Heavy Duty Equipment Trailer offers the support you need. With a 13,270 lb load capacity, this trailer is built to handle serious weight. The frame is engineered for long-term durability, giving you a solid and dependable platform for every haul, no matter the terrain or distance.

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