13.6m Artic lorries
13.6m Articulated Lorries (artics)
Articulated lorries, also known as semi-trailers or tractor-trailers, are a common sight on UK roads. These heavy goods vehicles consist of a cab (or tractor) and a trailer that can be detached. These vehicles are the backbone of Britain due to there large weight capacity, load volume & endless varieties of trailer.
Average Pallet Capacity:
The average pallet capacity is 33 Euro standard pallets or 26 UK standard pallets.
Trailer Internal Dimensions:
The average internal dimensions of a standard trailer are 13.6 metres (length) x 2.45 metres (width) x 2.7 metres (height). However, variations exist, and some trailers can be as long as 16.5 metres.
Payload Capacity:
The average payload capacity for a standard trailer is around 25,000kg, although this can vary depending on the type of trailer and its specifications.
External Dimensions:
The average external dimensions of a tractor-trailer are 16.5 metres (length) x 2.55 metres (width) x 4.5 metres (height).
Types of Trailers:
There are several types of trailers designed for different transport needs, including:
Box trailers
Curtain side trailers
Flatbed trailers
Fridge trailers
Double-decker trailers
Tanker trailers
Skeletal trailers
Walking floor trailers
Add-Ons:
Some trailers come with additional equipment like Moffetts or Hiabs, which are used for lifting heavy loads. These can lift weights of up to 30,000kg.
Tail Lifts:
Tail lifts are commonly used for loading and unloading goods. Their weight capacity varies from 500kg to 2,000kg, depending on the type and manufacturer.
Trailer Types
Box Trailers:
Box trailers are fully enclosed, protecting goods from weather, dust, and debris. They are widely used for transporting furniture, electronics, and perishable items. However, unloading without a bay can be challenging. Many box trailers come with tuckaway tail lifts, allowing them to be bay-loaded.
Curtain Side Trailers:
Curtain side trailers have curtains on both sides that can be easily opened, making them ideal for transporting large or bulky items like machinery and equipment. They also allow for ventilation and can include sliding roofs or crane-loading capabilities. Many come with tuckaway tail lifts, ensuring they remain bay-loadable. Some models have load-bearing curtains for added safety during transit.
Flatbed Trailers:
Flatbed trailers have an open, flat surface without sides or a roof, making them suitable for construction materials, vehicles, and oversized cargo. Many have tie-down points and load-securing systems to ensure safe transport. It’s essential to check whether loads need covering before transport.
Fridge Trailers:
Fridge trailers (also known as refrigerated trailers or "reefers") transport perishable goods like food and pharmaceuticals at controlled temperatures ranging from +20°C to -24°C. They are essential for businesses that require temperature-controlled transport. Many fridge trailers also have tuckaway tail lifts for retail deliveries while allowing bay loading.
Double-Decker Trailers:
Double-decker trailers have two storage levels, maximising capacity for grocery and household goods transport. They are more efficient and environmentally friendly by reducing the number of required trips. Some models feature floating floors supported by hydraulic lifts, which adjust to accommodate different cargo sizes and weights.
Tilt Trailers:
Tilt trailers feature a tilting mechanism that allows the trailer body to lift, making loading and unloading easier.
Tanker Trailers:
Tanker trailers transport liquids such as fuel, water, and chemicals.
Skeletal Trailers:
Skeletal trailers are designed for container transport. They can be fixed or extendable and accommodate 20ft, 30ft, 40ft, and 45ft containers. Twist-locks secure the containers during transport.
Walking Floor Trailers:
Walking floor trailers transport bulk goods such as wood chips, soil, and waste. They feature a hydraulic moving floor that pushes cargo towards the trailer’s rear, enabling self-unloading. Many models include tarpaulin covers to protect the load from the elements.