In the United States, businesses cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all shipping solution due to the diversity of freight. Dry van shipping is one of the most commonly used and versatile options in the $800 billion U.S. freight market. Dry van trailers meet the logistics needs of numerous industries by providing reliability, flexibility, and protection for goods. Let’s dive deeper into everything you need to know about dry van shipping.
What is Dry Van Shipping: Available Types of Trailers
In comparison to flatbed and refrigerated trailers, dry vans do not have temperature controls or specialized features for specific types of cargo. However, they do offer many advantages, such as being weatherproof, theft-resistant, and easy to load and unload. Their versatility makes them an excellent choice for most standard shipments that don’t require climate control.
Types of Dry Van Trailers
Dry van trailers exist in varying sizes and materials to meet diverse shipping requirements. The maximum permitted length of a dry van trailer is 53 feet. The following provides an overview of the different types of dry van trailers:
Standard dry van trailers (53-foot). The standard, typical dry van, 53 feet long, is the most prevalent trailer on the market today. It's frequently used for boxed, palletized, and crated freight.
Pup trailers. Small, single-axle dry vans and pup trailers are ideal for city deliveries, especially in high-density or congested urban areas with minimal additional space to move around.
High cube dry vans (28-foot). High cube dry vans provide 12 more inches of vertical height inside the container. The extra height makes them well-suited to accommodate and ship light but bulky material.
Liftgate dry vans. Dry vans come equipped with a liftgate, which can facilitate faster loading and unloading. They are well suited for deliveries requiring ground-level delivery.
What Can You Ship Using a Dry Van?
Any industry can use a dry van as a method of transporting its goods, as long as the freight fits within the dimensional limits. Here are the key industries:
- Retail. Electronics, apparel, home goods, toys, and general merchandise are commonly shipped via dry van. These products need protection from weather and theft during transit, making the dry van ideal for preserving product quality and preventing damage.
- Manufacturing. Machinery, plastics, textiles, components, and finished appliances rely on dry van transport. Dry van protects sensitive manufacturing materials from environmental exposure while allowing for secure, efficient movement between facilities.
- Construction. Lumber, drywall, tools, hardware, pipes, and packaged supplies are frequently transported in dry vans. The enclosed trailer of dry van shields building materials from rain, snow, and moisture that could warp wood, damage drywall, or rust metal components before they reach the site.
- Automotive. Tires, batteries, interior parts, and accessories are well-suited for dry van shipping. These components require protection from the elements to maintain their quality and functionality upon delivery.
- Consumer Goods. Items ranging from cleaning supplies to personal care products are transported via dry van. The secure, enclosed environment of a dry van prevents contamination and weather damage to everyday household items.
- Furniture. Dry vans can accommodate many different kinds of furniture pieces. The enclosed, weather-resistant design is crucial for safeguarding wood furniture from moisture, preventing fabric damage, and avoiding scratches during transport.
- Non-Perishable Food and Beverages. Canned goods and bottled drinks ship well in dry vans. The protected environment keeps these products clean and dry, preventing label damage and ensuring packaging integrity throughout the journey.
How Much Does Dry Van Shipping Cost?
Several factors influence the cost of dry van shipping, including:
- Fuel prices. Fuel prices directly impact dry van shipping costs. As fuel prices fluctuate, shipping rates can change weekly, leading to potential increases or decreases in the overall cost.
- Distance and route complexity. Longer distances typically result in higher shipping costs. Complex or challenging routes can also add to the cost due to increased travel time and road difficulties.
- Freight weight and volume. Shipments that are heavier or require more space will often cost more to ship. Special handling needs, custom packaging, or unique delivery instructions can also lead to rising costs.
- Seasonal demand fluctuations. Shipping rates can rise during peak seasons, such as holidays, when demand for transportation services is higher. The increased volume of goods leads to higher competition for trucks, driving up costs.
Average Rates per Mile and Ways to Reduce Shipping Costs
Dry van shipping rates are primarily calculated on a per-mile basis. On average, dry van shipping costs range from $2.0 to $3.5 per mile, depending on factors like distance and load. To reduce costs, it is recommended to
Book in Advance. Last-minute bookings come with premium pricing. Reserve your capacity weeks ahead to lock in lower rates and guarantee truck availability when you need it.
Combine Multiple Shipments into One Load. Instead of sending several small shipments throughout the week, consolidate them into a single full truckload. This maximizes space utilization and significantly lowers your per-unit transportation expenses.
Schedule Shipments. Avoid peak shipping seasons like holidays and end-of-quarter rushes when rates spike due to high demand. Planning shipments during quieter months can save 20–40% on freight costs.
Allow Flexible Timeframes. If your shipment isn't urgent, give carriers a wider delivery window. This flexibility lets them optimize routes and offer discounted rates in return.
Leverage Backhauls and Return Trips. Carriers often have empty trucks returning from deliveries. Shipping on these return routes can significantly reduce costs since they are looking to fill space rather than make a full trip profit.
Ask for Discounts. If you ship regularly, ask for volume-based discounts or long-term contracts. Even small discounts per shipment can add up to substantial savings over time.
Advantages of Dry Van Trucking
Dry van shipping provides numerous benefits, especially for small business owners.
Cost-effective and widely available. Dry van trucking is a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. Its widespread availability makes it easy to access this service.
Protection for cargo. Dry vans protect cargo from external elements like weather and road debris, keeping goods safe during transit.
Efficient loading and unloading. With rear door access and a spacious, open cargo area, dry vans allow for quick and efficient loading and unloading.
Versatile across industries. Dry van trucking is widely used for transporting various non-perishable goods across industries, from retail to manufacturing.
Dry Van vs Other Shipping Options
| Shipping Method | Best For | Temperature Control | Weather Protection | Cost | Load Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Van | General freight, packaged goods, non-perishables | No | Excellent | Moderate | None (enclosed) |
| Refrigerated (Reefer) | Perishable foods, pharmaceuticals, temperature-sensitive items | Yes | Excellent | High | None (enclosed) |
| Flatbed | Oversized cargo, construction materials, heavy equipment | No | None | Moderate | Full (open) |
| Step Deck | Tall cargo, machinery, equipment that exceeds standard height | No | None | Moderate–High | Full (open) |
| Intermodal | Long-haul freight, international shipping, rail-friendly routes | Optional | Good | Low–Moderate | None (enclosed container) |
| LTL (Less Than Truckload) | Smaller shipments, multiple deliveries, flexible scheduling | No | Good | Low (for partial loads) | Limited |
| Hot Shot | Urgent deliveries, time-sensitive freight, expedited service | No | Varies | High | Varies |
Challenges and Limitations of Dry Van Shipping
While dry van shipping offers numerous benefits, it also has its challenges and limitations. Understanding these factors can help you plan more effectively and make informed decisions. Here are some of the key challenges businesses might face with dry van shipping:
Susceptibility to moisture and condensation. The hardwood floors in most of the dry van trailers are vulnerable to moisture and condensation buildup. This could lead to potential damage to goods, particularly sensitive items.
Weight limitations. Dry vans have a weight capacity of 42,000 – 45,000 lbs. That means they cannot support extremely heavy or oversized loads. For large or wide shipments, flatbed trailers or specialized equipment may be required.
Not ideal for temperature-sensitive goods. Unlike refrigerated trailers, dry vans are not temperature-controlled. In most cases, they are unsuitable for shipping perishable or temperature-sensitive items.
Limited tracking capabilities. Compared to high-tech refrigerated units, dry vans often have less advanced tracking and monitoring systems. This can make it more difficult to track your shipment, especially on long trips.
How to Choose the Right Dry Van Carrier?
Choosing the right dry van carrier can simplify the shipping process and help you get the best value for your money. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider when selecting a carrier.
Reputation and reliability. Look for carriers with a strong reputation for reliability, on-time deliveries, and excellent customer service. Positive reviews and testimonials are good indicators of a carrier’s trustworthiness.
Fleet condition and equipment quality. Ask about the average age of the carrier's trucks and trailers, as well as their maintenance records. A well-maintained fleet shows that the carrier prioritizes reliability and safety.
Pricing and contract terms. Understand the pricing structure and contract terms. Compare rates and benefits from different carriers to make sure you find the most competitive option that fits your needs.
Insurance coverage and claims process. Check if the carrier provides insurance policies that cover your specific needs. Review their claims process to ensure you’re protected in case of any issues or damage during transport.
Best Practices for Efficient Dry Van Shipping
By adopting best practices in dry van shipping, businesses can make shipments smoother and avoid unnecessary disruptions. Let’s dive into the strategies that can help optimize your shipping process:
Proper packaging. A reliable company will invest in quality packaging materials and techniques to protect goods during transit. Using pallets, shrink wrap, and cushioning materials minimizes movement and prevents damage.
Optimizing load weight distribution. Experienced carriers know that heavier items should go at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Proper weight distribution keeps cargo balanced and prevents shifting during transit.
Scheduling shipments during off-peak times. Avoid the peak-season rush, when demand and transportation costs are higher. By booking shipments in advance, you can make the process smoother and avoid unexpected delays.
Leveraging freight brokers for better rates. Freight brokers have access to a network of carriers and can help secure the best rates for your shipments. You can get the best possible deal, saving both time and money.
Ready to Ship with Dry Van?
Now that you understand what dry van shipping is, the different cost factors involved, and the strategies to reduce expenses, you're ready to start planning your next dry van shipment.
From helping you find the right carrier to transport your goods, to ensuring everything arrives protected and on time, BAH Logistics dry van shipping service offers the reliability and security your freight deserves. Enter your shipment details using the BAH Logistics online form and experience the benefits of dry van shipping.
FAQs on Dry Van Shipping
What Is The Difference Between A Dry Van And Refrigerated Shipping?
A dry van is a standard, enclosed trailer used for shipping goods that don’t require temperature control. Refrigerated shipping uses temperature-controlled trailers to transport perishable goods that need to be kept cold or frozen during the shipping process.
How Much Weight Can A Dry Van Carry?
A dry van can carry between 40,000 and 45,000 pounds of cargo, depending on the specific trailer and regulations. However, the exact weight limit can vary based on factors like axle configuration and local weight restrictions.
What Is The Average Cost Per Mile For Dry Van Shipping?
The average cost per mile for dry van shipping typically ranges from $2.0 to $3.5, depending on factors such as distance, fuel prices, and the type of load. Rates can fluctuate based on market conditions, demand, and the specific freight route.
How Do I Find A Reliable Dry Van Shipping Provider?
To find a reliable dry van shipping provider, check their experience in the industry and read customer reviews for insights into their service quality. Ask about their insurance coverage to ensure your cargo is protected during shipping.
Can I Ship Perishable Goods In A Dry Van?
It depends on the type of perishable goods. If the items require temperature control, it's better to use refrigerated shipping. A dry van does not provide the necessary temperature regulation for perishable goods.
