Everything You Need to Know About Dry Vans for Your Business
July 5, 2024

Working in logistics is mostly about transporting goods, products, or other big loads in the safest and fastest possible way, which is why choosing the right type of vehicle is crucial for your business.
Dry vans are a great choice thanks to their versatility and efficiency. That’s why they are the most common semi-trailer truck today.
Keep reading to know what a dry van is, how it works, its many uses, and the industries that benefit from it. We’ll also give you some tips on what to look for when buying a dry van.
Dry Vans – What Are They?
A dry van is an enclosed trailer used to transport goods that need protection from the elements but do not require temperature control.
Unlike refrigerated vans, which are essential for perishable goods, dry vans are used for transporting dry, non-perishable items.
They are usually the go-to semi-truck in the transportation industry thanks to their ability to safely carry a wide range of cargo.
How Do Dry Vans Work?
Dry vans are designed with a secure, weatherproof enclosure that shields the cargo from external conditions such as rain, wind, and dust.
The structure is built to give maximum internal space and they come in various sizes and configurations, so you can choose the model that best adapts to your transportation needs.
Types of Dry Vans
There are different types of dry vans that vary in size:
Straight Trucks: Also known as box trucks, they are ideal for urban deliveries. The most common size is approximately 7.3 metres long, 2.4 metres wide, and 2.6 metres high.
8-Metre Trailers: Commonly used for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, which as the name suggests, it’s when a shipment does not require a full truckload. They measure around 8.5 metres in length, 2.4 metres in width, and 2.7 metres in height. They can hold up to 10,200 kilograms.
16-Metre Trailers: The most common dry van size seen on the roads today, these trailers are about 16 metres long, 2.6 metres wide, and 2.6 metres high. They can carry up to 20,400 kilograms of freight.
Common Uses of Dry Vans
Dry vans are incredibly versatile and can be used to transport many goods and items, including:
- Consumer Goods: Electronics, clothing, furniture, and other retail products.
- Non-Perishable Food Items: Packaged foods, canned goods, and beverages.
- Paper Products: Books, office supplies, and packaging materials.
- Building Materials: Lumber, hardware, and tools.
- Automotive Parts: Tires, engines, and other vehicle components.
Industries that Use Dry Vans
Several industries benefit from the use of dry vans, including:
- Retail: Ensuring timely delivery of merchandise to stores.
- Manufacturing: Transporting raw materials and finished products.
- Construction: Moving tools and building materials to job sites.
- Automotive: Shipping parts and accessories to dealerships and repair shops.
- Publishing: Distributing books and printed materials to retailers.
What to Look for When Buying a Dry Van
When purchasing a dry van, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your needs:
- Size and Capacity: Choose a van that can accommodate the volume and weight of your typical cargo.
- Loading Features: Consider options such as swing doors or roll-up doors for easier access.
- Custom Features: Look for any additional features that may benefit your specific operations, such as interior lighting or additional security measures.
Conclusion
Dry vans play a vital role in the logistics and transportation industry, offering a reliable solution for transporting a wide range of goods. However, keep in mind that if you have to transport goods that require controlled temperature and humidity levels, you will need a refrigerated truck or van.
For top-quality transport refrigeration services in Melbourne, look no further than Transfreeze. Click here to explore our range of refrigerated vans and trucks and invest in a reliable transportation solution for your business today.