There are several types of trailers: the trailer and the semi-trailer.
A trailer is a non-motorized vehicle that needs another vehicle to move.
The main difference with a semi-trailer is that it has no front axle. It is directly hitched to a tractor unit, which supports part of its weight. These non-motorized vehicles are mainly used in freight transport.
In France, the maximum dimensions (length, width) of a semi-trailer are defined by the highway code, though exceptions exist for refrigerated trailers.
The semi-trailer is the best solution for long-distance freight transport.
At STTI, we mainly use it for:
– National conventional road transport
– Big LDD, our activity involving transport with onboard forklift, especially for bulky goods like spas, saunas, swimming pools, garage doors, furniture, etc.
Dimensions of a semi-trailer
– Length: 13.60 m (up to 14 m for temperature-controlled units)
– Width: 2.55 m (up to 2.60 m for temperature-controlled units)
– Articulated vehicle length (tractor + semi): 16.50 m
– Height: No legal maximum in France
Truck chassis have a more reasonable dimension than semi-trailers. Their smaller size also allows access to places where semi-trailers cannot travel. The 19-ton truck is widely used particularly for direct deliveries with narrow access.
At STTI, we use them for both Small and Big LDD.
Dimensions of a 19-ton rigid*
– Length: 10.70 m
– Width: 2.55 m
– Height: 4.00 m
*These are standard dimensions and may vary based on configuration
The 20m³ van is fast and designed for express, regional, or urban deliveries. It can access almost any location but has a limited load capacity (700–1,000 kg depending on equipment).
At STTI, the 20m³ truck is our flagship vehicle for our Small LDD activity. This service involves transporting fragile and bulky products, such as home closures (front doors, aluminum doors, interior doors, sectional and roll-up garage doors, sliding and swinging gates, kit gates, aluminum or rigid fences, roller shutters, swing shutters, retractable awnings) and outdoor products (pergolas, carports, garden sheds, garden furniture).
Dimensions of a 20m³ van*
– Length: 7 m
– Width: 2.50 m
– Height: 3.10 m
*Standard dimensions may vary depending on needs and body type
In the European Union, max height for heavy trucks is 4 m.
The French Highway Code does not impose a maximum height limit. Instead, the maximum circulation height for a semi-trailer is defined by the clearance of road structures (such as bridges, tunnels, and interchanges) along the route. Structures with a clearance of less than 4.30 meters must be clearly signposted. It is essential for the driver to take into account the height of the trailer or its load in order to plan the route accordingly, based on the infrastructure along the road.
Width: Semi-trailers must not exceed 2.55 m, except for refrigerated trailers (up to 2.60 m).
Different types of trailers are used for road freight transport depending on the type of cargo and the loading/unloading methods.
At STTI, for example, we can list the following types of bodywork:
– Sliding soft sidewalls
– Flatbed
– Container carrier
– Box truck
But there are many others (tank, tipper, etc.).
You can find specific equipment depending on the needs related to your activity. The height choice will mainly depend on the type of goods you want to transport.
Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
– Opt for a standard height if you are transporting conventional goods, such as pallets, boxes, or crates.
– Prefer a higher height if you need to transport bulky goods, though light, like furniture or household appliances.
Beyond height, the dimensions and load capacity of the trailer are just as important.
At STTI, for our Big LDD (onboard forklift) activity, we have, for example, a height-adjustable semi-trailer, which allows us to adapt the trailer for tall and large-volume items, up to 2.95 meters (for example, for tall shelters). We also use “Urban” trailers, which offer superior performance to traditional distribution trucks. The “City” and “Urban” models are evolving – the trailer length is shorter, but highly maneuverable thanks to the rear steering axle.
Several elements must be taken into account before loading goods: height but also weight. It’s essential to know the payload capacity of the trailer.
Calculating the payload helps to determine the maximum mass of goods the vehicle can carry.
Tips for loading your trailer:
– Place the heaviest loads around the central axis of the vehicle.
– Place lighter loads on top of the heavier ones.
– Position the center of gravity as low as possible. Finally, place it symmetrically along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.
Of course, there are many safety rules to follow (non-exhaustive list):
– Do not stay inside the trailer while it is being loaded;
– Respect the site safety protocol;
– Always lock the rear doors of the trailer when it’s open;
– Climb into the trailer using the designated ladder.
