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Home » Semi-Trailer Dimensions: Inside Height, Width, Length
semi-trailer dimensions

Semi-Trailer Dimensions: Inside Height, Width, Length

The cargo size determines the dimensions of the semi-trailer needed to haul it.

Some types of semi-trailer have the ability to change their size configuration in such a way that they can haul freight of a wide range of sizes.

While the standard width of the semi-trailer may vary slightly, the length of some types of semi-trailers may change significantly.

That feature allows them to load larger freight on it.

Below check out the dimensions of different 
types of semi-trailers.

1. 48 ft and 53 ft semi-trailers

dry van trailer

The US Department of Transportation set the standards for semi-trailer dimensions that can legally use the highways across the country.

If the cargo exceeds these max standards for 53-foot trailers, the driver needs additional permits to legally transport the oversized load.

Due to their enclosed nature, semi-trailers, also known as dry vans, transport the most versatile type of products.

This characteristic of the dry vans protects the freight from being damaged by external elements like rain, dust, or wind.

Standard semi-trailer dimensions

Length

48'-53'

Width

102"

Door height

110"

Total height

13'6"

Door types

Swing /Roller doors

Semi-trailer inside cargo capacity

Cargo width

98"-101"

Cargo height

108"-110"

Cargo weight

45,000 lbs

Pallet count

24-26

2. Flatbed semi-trailers

flatbed trailer

Flatbed semi-trailers can transport long or heavy freight that don't fit into an enclosed trailer.

The open nature of the flatbed trailer allows the shipper to load or unload the freight from the rear, sides, or from the top.



Flatbeds are loaded or unloaded from the ground rather than from the dock.

Flatbed semi-trailer dimensions

Length

48'-53'

Width

102"

Height

60"

Flatbed semi-trailer capacity

Cargo width

102"

Cargo height

102" - 108"

Cargo weight

48,000 lbs

Pallet count

24

3. Reefer semi-trailers

refrigerated trailer

During the entire transit time, reefer semi-trailers have the ability to maintain a specific temperature range inside the trailer.

Because of that, reefers transport temperature-sensitive products. These products require specific temperature ranges to arrive safely to the delivery.

Otherwise, the product arrives altered and unsafe to use.

Reefer semi-trailer dimensions

Length

48'- 53'

Width

102"

Door height

110"

Height

13'6"

Reefer semi-trailer inside cargo capacity

Cargo width

96" - 98"

Cargo height

102"

Cargo weight

44,000 lbs

Pallet count

24

4. Step-deck semi-trailer 

step deck trailer

Step-deck semi-trailers transport products that are too tall for a standard flatbed.

The trailer consists of two decks - the upper and the lower.

The use of the lower deck, or well, allows for freight up to 10’ high to be legally transported while still providing the same loading/unloading capabilities of a standard flatbed.

Step-deck semi-trailer dimensions

Length: Total

48'- 53'

Length: Lower deck

37' - 43'

Length: Upper deck

10' - 11'

Width

102"

Height: Lower deck

42"

Height: Upper deck

60"

Step-deck semi-trailer capacity

Cargo width

102"

Cargo height

120" - 126"

Cargo weight

45,000 lbs

Pallet count

24

5. Double drop semi-trailer (Lowboy)

refrigerated trailer

The double drop semi-trailers transport oversize freight.

The low profile of the well provides the ability to legally transport 12' tall freight.

Lowboy semi-trailer capacity

Length: Total

48"

Length: Main well

26' - 30'

Length: Front/Rear decks

8' - 10' 

Width

102"

Height

18" - 24"

Lowboy semi-trailer capacity

Cargo width

102"

Cargo height

144" - 150"

Cargo weight

40,000 lbs

6. Conestoga semi-trailers

conestoga trailer

Conestoga semi-trailers provide the enclosed option of a dry vans while providing the same loading/unloading capabilities as a flatbeds.

When open, a sliding curtain provides the ability to load or unload freight from the side, rear, or top.

When closed, the curtain offers protection to the freight from weather.

Conestoga semi-trailer dimensions

Length

48' - 53'

Width

102"

Door height

98" - 102"

Total height

13'6"

Conestoga semi-trailer inside cargo capacity

Cargo width

102"

Cargo height

98" - 102"

Cargo weight

45,000 - 48,000 lbs

Pallet count

24-26

7. RGN semi-trailers

removable gooseneck trailer

RGN (removable gooseneck, also called low boy or double drop) semi-trailers transport oversize freight.

RGNs transport heavy machinery like tractors, specialty vehicles, and others.

With the ability to detach from the cab, and with drop-down ramps, freight can easily be driven on and off.

RGN semi-trailer dimensions

Length: Total

48'

Length: Main well

26'-30'

Length: Rear deck

8' - 10'

Width

102"

Height

18" - 24"

RGN semi-trailer capacity

Cargo width

102"

Cargo height

144" - 150"

Cargo weight

40,000

Related: 

What Are Semi-Trailers Used For in the US Roads?

The Weight per Axle Distribution in a Tractor with a 53 Trailer

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