Storage, Cartage, Over the Road: Understanding Semi Trailer Uses

Businesses that are looking for a semi trailer for rent or a semi trailer for sale tend to plan on using it for one of three purposes: storage, cartage, or over the road hauling. In fact, as they do their research, they’ll often specify their purpose in the browser search: “semi trailer for storage,” “used cartage semi trailer,” or “over the road trailers for rent,” for example. But what, specifically, do these terms mean and what kinds of results are their searches likely to bring up?

Semi Trailers for Storage

One of the great things about a well-built semi trailer is that it is essentially a small building on wheels. For a company in need of space for storing anything from raw materials for manufacturing processes to finished product, a storage semi trailer can be the perfect solution for a number of reasons, including:

• Mobility. A storage semi trailer can easily be moved to wherever it is required and subsequently relocated as needs change.
• Security. Semi trailers can be securely locked if appropriate, or left unlocked for easy access if they are in a secure location.
• Easy loading/unloading. Semi trailers have a height that aligns with most loading docks, making it easy to move materials or assets into or out of them.

As with any storage solution, there are a few issues that companies need to be aware of when using trailer rentals to accommodate storage needs. For example, many communities have rules and regulations about where a semi trailer can be parked and how long it can remain there. It is important to look into and follow those rules.

In addition, because trailers have moving parts, they must be properly maintained. Especially in situations where a trailer is left in one place for an extended period, it is important to inspect it and perform any necessary maintenance before moving it.

Semi Trailers for Cartage

The term cartage is defined as “the transporting of goods by road.” In the transportation industry, the difference between a cartage semi trailer and an over the road semi trailer has to do with the area in which they operate. Cartage typically involves the transporting of goods over short distances, such as within a city or a commercial area, or within a certain number of miles from a company’s facility. Over the road semi trailers are used for hauling product or materials over long distances.

Cartage semi trailers have the same characteristics as semi trailers for storage. This includes sturdy steel or aluminum construction, a variety of door types (roll doors, swing doors, etc.) to accommodate different loads, spring ride suspension or air ride suspension, etc. A good cartage semi trailer will also have a real-time GPS tracking system to simplify fleet management and mileage tracking.

While there are many advantages to using cartage semi trailers, there are certain considerations that must be kept in mind. For example, it may be challenging to maneuver a semi trailer into and out of certain locations. Also, because of the demands of local driving, and the frequent loading and unloading of cartage semi trailers, regular maintenance is important.

Semi Trailers for Over the Road Hauling

Over the road semi trailers, as noted above, are used for long-distance hauling. This may be regional, statewide, or cross-country routes. Because product is in transit longer, additional features may be required. For example, product or materials that must be kept cold may be transported in a refrigerated trailer, also known as a reefer trailer.

Here again, staying on top of maintenance needs with over the road trailers is critical.

Semi Trailers for Rent or Lease: Different Uses, Similar Benefits

Whether you rent or lease semi trailers for storage, cartage, or over the road hauling, many of the benefits are similar. For example, this approach allows you to:

• Flex your fleet as economic conditions change
• Reduce overhead costs
• Free capital for other uses
• Always be using trailers with the latest technology

Plus, establishing a relationship with a company that specializes in semi trailer renting and semi trailer leasing means you have them as a resource and someone who’s “got your back” when you find yourself with an urgent need for more storage or hauling capacity.

And, if your business strategy changes and you find yourself looking for used semi trailers for sale, the same company you trust for your rented or leased trailers likely can help in that area as well. That’s true at Boxwheel, as we rent, lease, and sell semi trailers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Semi Trailers

Companies looking to rent or lease semi trailers to help with their storage, cartage, or over the road needs often have questions about the process. We answer many of them on our Frequently Asked Questions page, but here are a few of the most common questions:

• Is there a lot of red tape when renting or leasing a semi trailer? No. All you need is an approved rental/leasing application and proof of insurance.
• What type/amount of insurance is required to rent or lease a semi trailer from Boxwheel? We require collision and liability insurance to be in effect when you pick up your trailer and throughout the rental or lease term. This coverage must include $1 million in auto liability and physical damage coverage.
• What happens if a semi trailer needs repair work? At Boxwheel, our in-house and mobile teams handle repairs quickly and efficiently. We also provide 24/7 nationwide breakdown coverage.
• Is there a mileage charge when renting or leasing a trailer? Yes, this charge covers wear and tear on tires, brakes, and other components. However, the Spireon GPS technology we use tracks mileage in real time and we share the figures with you regularly so you’re never caught off guard.

Get Answers to Your Specific Questions

Considering getting semi trailers for storage, cartage, or over the road use? We’re happy to answer any specific questions you have about your operations and how our trailers may be able to help you meet your challenges fully and cost-effectively. Please contact us at your convenience.