Double Trailer

Overview

What is a Full (double trailer)? It's a doubly-articulated tractor-trailer also called a double semi-trailer or double-trailer truck that combines a tractor unit with two trailers or containers to move high-volume or heavy shipments in a single trip. Unlike a single semi-trailer (the difference between a trailer and a semi-trailer is that a semi-trailer rests partly on the tractor, while a Full links two units in series through a dolly), this configuration allows twice the cargo to move without doubling the number of trips. It's one of the highest-capacity vehicle combinations authorized for road freight.

Specifications

	Double Dry Van	Double Container Chassis	Double Reefer Truck
Typical Setup	Tractor + two 53' Dry Vans	Tractor + two containers	Tractor + two Reefer Trailers
Payload	Up to 50 tons	Up to 60 tons	Up to 44 tons
Approx. Volume	~226 m³	Varies	~208 m³

There are three main configurations: double dry van (two 53' trailers), double container (two intermodal containers), and double reefer (two temperature-controlled trailers). The load capacity, volume, and temperature range for each configuration are detailed in the table above.

What Can It Carry?

The double dry van Full carries consumer products, retail merchandise, packaged goods, and manufacturing cargo. The double container Full is used for import and export shipments moving through ports and terminals. The double reefer Full transports frozen foods, beverages, fresh produce, and temperature-sensitive merchandise. Before selecting a Full, route restrictions, cargo dimensions, loading facilities, weight requirements, and road regulations applicable to this double-trailer combination should be evaluated.

Which Size Should You Choose?

The Full's three main configurations differ by cargo type and trailer equipment, not capacity alone. For high-volume consumer, retail, and manufacturing goods, the double dry van configuration is the most common. For international trade shipments moving between ports and terminals, the double container is the right choice. For frozen, beverage, or perishable goods, the double reefer is essential for its temperature control across both units. The choice should be based on cargo type and required equipment, while also checking whether the route allows a doubly-articulated tractor-trailer to circulate, since not all highways authorize this combination.

Common Uses

Double Trailers are used for high-volume manufacturing, retail distribution, consumer goods, refrigerated supply chains, port transportation, and industrial freight. They can support heavy transportation, national freight, and long-distance land freight transportation when the route and equipment are appropriate. OpenFR8 can help businesses identify suitable carriers, trucks, and transportation options for large shipments.