Flatbed vs. Dry Van Transportation

What Is a Dry Van?

A dry van is an enclosed trailer with walls and a roof, protecting freight from weather and road conditions. It is the most common trailer type for general freight, consumer goods, electronics, packaged food, and any cargo that needs protection from the elements. Dry vans are loaded and unloaded through rear doors.

What Is a Flatbed?

A flatbed is an open trailer with no walls or roof, allowing freight to be loaded from the sides, top, or rear using forklifts, cranes, or other equipment. Flatbeds are used for building materials, steel, machinery, lumber, pipe, and any freight that is oversized, irregularly shaped, or cannot fit in an enclosed trailer.

Key Differences

Here are the main differences between flatbed and dry van transportation:

• Protection: Dry vans protect freight from weather; flatbeds expose freight to the elements (tarps can be used).
• Loading: Flatbeds allow side, top, and rear loading; dry vans are rear-load only.
• Freight type: Dry vans for packaged goods; flatbeds for oversized, heavy, or irregular freight.
• Cost: Flatbed rates are typically higher due to specialized loading requirements and tarping.
• Flexibility: Flatbeds can handle freight that exceeds standard trailer dimensions.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose a dry van if your freight is packaged, palletized, and fits within standard trailer dimensions, and if it needs weather protection. Choose a flatbed if your freight is oversized, irregularly shaped, requires crane or forklift loading, or is building materials, steel, or machinery. If you are unsure, contact us with your commodity and dimensions and we will recommend the right equipment.