Choosing the correct semi-trailer is a critical decision for fleets and trucking companies as they navigate the challenges that occur in the transportation industry. The right trailer improves efficiency, reduces operating costs and ensures long-term profitability.
What freight are you hauling?
This is a great starting point when looking into the right equipment for your operation. Dry goods and general freight are typically hauled in Dry Van trailers. Not all dry vans are created the same, so it is important to consider the demands of your freight and operations. As an example, it is widely known in the transportation industry that trailers used to haul automotive freight must be equipped with additional protections to withstand rough loading and unloading. Another example would be the need for an increased floor rating for dense freight like carpet and other rolled items like large paper rolls. Our sales staff and technicians can provide information and a plan on modifications and customizations for your trailers.
Furthermore, any freight that is temperature sensitive like food, medicines and perishable items will be loaded in a Refrigerated Van, or Reefer, which will keep the freight at the desired temperature. There may be freight demands that require warm temperatures to avoid freezing, and for those applications, we would suggest an Insulated Heater Van. Heavy duty moves for products like earth movers and construction materials, but most customers choose flatbeds, lowboys or rigid gooseneck trailers. For further assistance in choosing the right trailer, read through our blog “Learning the Different Trailer Types” for a comprehensive understanding of trailer types and their functions.
Advice from Craig Wagner, Account Executive: “Focus on the freight you haul most often to avoid overspending on unnecessary specs. To create balance in your fleet, try to match your preferred specs with the majority of our needs for the freight you are hauling.”
Consider your freight weight and capacity requirements
In order to maximize freight capacity, it’s important to consider cargo weight and the production material of the trailer. Some fleets are "weight sensitive" in result of the cargo that they are hauling, so taking in consideration all aspects will be important to having a safe and easy haul. Understanding the different pros and cons of materials can help settle your decision quicker:
- Steel is proven to be strong and economical while being a great material for heavy duty use. The general concern with steel is that it’s prone to rust but, Hyundai Translead offers “hot dipped galvanization”: a standard feature on many of its trailer components while simultaneously providing corrosion resistance and durability.
- Aluminum on the other hand, is lightweight and corrosion-resistant which makes it ideal for fuel efficiency and payload capacity. Composite materials blend benefits of strength and reduced weight, providing long-term durability and resale value.
The type of material used is more prevalent in the production of Flatbeds when fleets consider steel vs. aluminum as the main material for their equipment. Aluminum is a lighter material than steel, so it provides a better payload capacity but will very likely increase your initial cost. Steel flatbeds however, are heavier and less expensive but are better suited for heavy duty applications like construction and oil field uses.
Our used equipment sales inventory generally has a good mix of all steel, all aluminum, and combo flatbed trailers. We are proud distributers of Extreme Trailers, Cheetah Chassis and Hyundai Translead to offer you variety and customization for your next Flatbed trailer.
Advice from Scott Albert, Account Executive: “Always evaluate the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price. Selecting the correct equipment can prevent unexpected additional future costs.”
What is your budget and finance strategy?
As a full-service semi-trailer dealership, Transport Services consults with customers on how to maximize the value of their investment. Some fleets only buy used equipment, and some only buy new. While other fleets have a mix of used, new and possibly leased trailers. Every customer has different needs, and the most suitable option depend on a variety of factors that include but are not limited to: shipping contracts, shipper requirements, driver preferences and availability of financing.
New trailers will have a higher upfront cost but provide immediate lower maintenance costs along with warranty protection. Used trailers have lower initial cost but fleets will have to take into consideration the condition of components and the amount of maintenance provided to that equipment.
A popular type of financing that Transport offers is a “Lease Purchase” where we establish a term and monthly rate that will transfer ownership to the customer when the agreed upon payments are completed. This keeps funds in the customer’s pocket by allowing the payments to be spread out instead upfront. This is a great option for smaller companies or those that are just getting started. At Transport, we work with the top financing companies and are happy to guide you in the best direction for your business.
Customers will often ask what makes more sense—renting or owning equipment. Our answer is generally the same and it sounds something like this: It depends on your current financial situation, your future needs for this equipment and what your maintenance capabilities are. The pros of renting provide low upfront costs and flexibility for fluctuating fleet demands. The cons of renting are that long-term costs result in higher numbers than purchasing and availability of desired equipment can be unpredictable. Reach out to our sales staff and determine what is best for you and read more about how you can make the best decision for your fleet.
Advice from Zack Click, Account Executive: “If you’re testing a new lane, working within a shorter contract, moving seasonal freight or need short-term flexibility — rent. But if you’ve got steady loads and plan to run that trailer for years, buying (or our leasing to own option) will save you money in the long run.”
Parts Availability and Cost of Ownership
Fleets should choose trailer brands with readily available parts, local service capabilities and standardized components to reduce downtime and cost. It is inevitable that your fleet will experience situations where you will need parts, service, and possibly need to make a warranty claim. As a full-service dealer, we relish these opportunities to be there for our customers in their time of need. While we have customers throughout the U.S., we have many that operate in the Pennsylvania, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio markets. We are proud to offer three full-service locations that offer warranty repairs, OEM parts and mobile service capabilities for quick resolutions.
Advice from Rob Butcher, Parts Operations Manager: “Fleets need help when they are least expecting it and they should partner with a dealer that can be there for them when they need it! We offer same-day delivery as a way to enhance our customer experience and we love the challenge of tracking down a hard to find part.”
Brand Reputation and Resale Value
It is no surprise that trucks, trailers and vehicles are depreciating assets. However, as an educated buyer, you have the ability to improve your resale value by selecting the right manufacturer. Retaining a higher resale value will result in making equipment upgrades much easier in the future. The manufacturers that we represent are clearly the best in the industry and the numbers prove it. Hyundai Translead has been the #1 Trailer Manufacturer in North America since 2017. That is the result of their focus on Innovation, Customization and Customer Satisfaction. Extreme Trailers joined the list of “Top 25 Manufacturers in North America” in 2022 and hasn’t looked back since. Their focus on offering the lowest tare weight in the industry has shifted the way fleets operate because they can move more freight and improve profit margin.
Advice from Jon Fenton, Account Executive: “Select a brand that you can trust and that is proven. Hyundai Translead isn’t the leading manufacturer by mistake. They hold that #1 position because they are focused on quality and have changed the game with their standard galvanized components.”
Customization and Fleet Versatility
The customizations that customers might require are endless and we encourage them to explore the possibilities of the manufactures. Some popular features that fleets are considering currently are telematics, tire inflation systems, load sensors and aerodynamic devices. We often suggest that fleets start to explore standardizing their equipment and specs which simplifies training and maintenance, allowing for operational flexibility.
Advice from Brittany Ruth, Account Executive: “Partnering with a dealer that is well informed and willing to listen to your needs is critical. We look forward to helping customers find the right equipment and provide them with the service after the sale. The right equipment at the right time, for the right customer, is what we strive to do.”
Which Route Will You Take?
Transport Services is here to support you and your fleet when it’s time to make equipment decisions. From choosing the right equipment and customizations, to financing and beyond the purchase in parts and service, we are here for you in each step. Ready to get moving today? Contact our team to begin your journey and a meaningful partnership.
p: 440.582.4900 ext 4
e: sales@transportservices.com