Semi-Trailer vs. Full Trailer – What’s the Difference?

Tags: Anatomy of a Trailer

Believe it or not, full trailers and semi-trailers are different.

If you’re looking to buy a trailer, the variety of options and technical details are probably overwhelming you.

What makes them different? What is each one used for?

A comparison between a semi-trailer vs full trailer may help you select which trailer to pick.

With a clear understanding, you will be better equipped to decide whether a semi-trailer or another type of trailer would be more appropriate for your specific business needs.

What is a Semi-Trailer?

A semi-trailer is a truck and trailer combination without a front axle. When detached from a vehicle, semi-trailers typically have legs to support them. A substantial percentage of its weight is supported by a road tractor unit.

The trailer’s brakes are automatically applied when it is detached. So, the only device that may release the brakes is the air pump on the truck. This trailer’s length cannot go over 53 ft on the interstate; however, if necessary, special permits are readily accessible.

What are Semi Trailers Used For?

A semi-trailer truck is favored in the trucking industry for hauling freight for long distances.

In contrast, a semi-truck trailer is frequently utilized to deliver a full load to a single location. This also implies that a semi-trailer vs full trailer can carry greater sized loads.

Pros and Cons of Using Semi Trailers

The pros of using a semi-trailer are:

1. Load capacity & versatility: A semi-truck can handle larger loads and can have an extended cargo bed, making them perfect for transporting long materials like pipes and lumber. Even longer or larger loads need specialized trailers like schnables to haul.
2. Manageability: Since a semi-trailer truck is detachable, using them when loading or docking between loading depots is faster and simpler.

The cons of using a semi-trailer are:

1. Lack of independence with cargo capacity: Without a road tractor, a semi-truck cannot be converted to a cargo vehicle.
2. Requires Proper Usage: A semi-trailer truck can jackknife if it is not driven properly because it is not firmly fastened to the tow vehicle.

What is a Full Trailer?

A full trailer vs semi-trailer has both a front and a rear axle. A full trailer cannot be detached because they are a fixed part of the truck. A drawbar is found on a full trailer truck meant for pulling or towing.

The majority of commercial full trailers have a length of about 40 ft. A full trailer truck may move vertically by adjusting the front axle’s direction in reference to the towing vehicle. When compared to a semi-trailer, a full trailer doesn’t carry as much weight to the towing vehicle.

What are Full Trailers Used For?

Businesses who need to deliver goods to multiple sites, where just a portion of the cargo is unloaded, frequently use full trailers. They are primarily utilized for transportation over shorter distances to factories, warehouses, and ports.

Pros and Cons of Using Full Trailers

The pros of using a full trailer are:

• Great for local and regional transport: Full trailer trucks would likely be hired over a semi-truck trailer because companies need to deliver goods to several places in a shift. A full-trailer is more efficient for satisfying delivering at this cadence.
• Independent cargo capacity: A full trailer does not need to be attached to a road tractor to be a cargo vehicle.

The cons of using a full trailer are:

• Weight and size: A semi-trailer can carry more than a full trailer, making them great options for long-haul deliveries.
• Not detachable: Because the steer axles cannot independently pivot as with a semi- trailer, longer full trailers may have less maneuverability than similar sized semi-trailers.

What’s the Difference Between Semi Trailers and Full Trailers?

Due to their popularity, semi trailers have an advantage over full trailers in this comparison. However, each has benefits and drawbacks. The following examples are the five main differences between a semi-trailer vs full trailer:

• Position of the Axle and Weight Support

Semi trailers don’t have front axles. Therefore, it’s crucial to disperse the proper tractor-trailer weight on each axle in order to remain compliant. They sustain half of the weight of the vehicle by being on the back portion of it.

The back of the truck supports the remaining half of the weight. The key to preventing overweight difficulties on a semi-trailer is understanding how to distribute the weight.

In full trailers, the front and rear axles support the entire trailer’s weight, so they don’t have this issue.

• Connection

The kingpin of the semi-trailer is what attaches it to the semi-truck. It’s the device that secures the trailer to the truck.

The front hook of the truck is used to attach a full trailer to it, securing it to the tractor’s hitch.

• Dimension and Capacity

The dimensions of a semi-trailer is: 

• 48 to 53 feet long.
• 8.5 feet wide.
• 13 feet high.

Weight Threshold: 80,000 lbs

The standard dimension of a full trailer is:

• 10 to 26 feet long.
• 8.5 feet wide.
• 13 to 14 feet high. 

  Weight Threshold: 26,000 lbs

• Logistics

Long-distance transporting is done with semi trailers. They are quick to load and unload, easier to handle, and easier to move. They are also utilized to carry bulkier and heavier cargo.

Short-distance freight transportation to factories, ports, and warehouses typically uses full trailers. Most of the time, they deliver at various locations while unloading merchandise at various drop-off spots.

Which Type of Trailer is Right for Me?

If you have just started a business that involves transporting goods and products, buying or renting a semi-trailer is a reasonable option.

A semi-trailer is all about efficiency in relation to a full trailer. If you need a trailer with maximum versatility, a semi-truck is more popular in fleet lineups.

Think of your needs first before you make your purchase. If you need trailer types like a car carrier, flatbed, or container truck, go with a semi-truck.

If you need a trailer that’s more like a box van, dump truck or tow truck, a full trailer will suit your needs best.

Both offer great opportunities to yield high earnings and get the job done for your growing customer base. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a full trailer and a semi-trailer?

Full trailers have their own commercial cargo capacity because they feature a cab, but a semi-truck requires a road tractor to be used as a cargo vehicle. A semi-trailer is easier to maneuver than a full trailer because of the smaller turning circle it possesses.

For example, a common semi-trailer truck is an oil tanker while a common full trailer truck is a dump truck.

Why is it called a semi-trailer?

Since it doesn’t have a front axle and is therefore distinct from a trailer, which does, we refer to it as a semi-trailer.

This means that the weight of this sort of trailer and its contents is supported in part by its wheels and in most cases the tractor pulling the trailer.

What are the different types of semi trailers?

Some different semi-trailer types include:

• Container semi-truck
• Dry Vans
• Flatbeds
• Refrigerated Trailers
• Oil tankers

What makes a trailer a semi-trailer?

A freight trailer that, when connected, is supported at its front end by the truck tractor’s fifth wheel mechanism makes it a semi-trailer.

Hale Trailer Can Get You a Trailer Today

Before you select a trailer, check in with our experts at Hale Trailer. We have the experience needed to point you toward your desired trailer. Our selection of trailers are ready for the long haul whether you’d like to purchase or rent. Browse our line-up online or at one of trailer rental locations if you want to learn more about how we can work for you.