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Semi-Trailer Truck Configurations

In North America, the combination vehicles made up of a powered truck and one or more semitrailers are known as “semis”, “semitrailers”, “tractor-trailers”, “big rigs”, “semi trucks”, “eighteen-wheelers”, or “semi-tractor trailers”.

The tractor unit typically has two or three axles; those built for hauling heavy-duty commercial-construction machinery may have as many as five, some often being lift axles.

The most common tractor-cab layout has a forward engine, one steering axle, and two drive axles. The fifth-wheel trailer coupling on most tractor trucks is movable fore and aft, to allow adjustment in the weight distribution over its rear axle(s).

Ubiquitous in Europe, but less common in North America since the 1990s, is the cabover engine configuration, where the driver sits next to, or over the engine. With changes in the US to the maximum length of the combined vehicle, the cabover was largely phased out of North American over-the-road (long-haul) service by 2007. Cabovers were difficult to service, as the cab could not be lifted on its hinges to a full 90-degree forward tilt, severely limiting access to the front part of the engine.

As of 2016, a truck can cost $100,000, while the diesel cost can be $70,000 per year. Trucks average from 4 to 8 miles per US gallon (59 to 29 L/100 km), with fuel economy standards requiring better than 7 miles per US gallon (34 L/100 km) efficiency by 2014. Power requirements in standard conditions are 170 hp at 55 mph (89 km/h) or 280 hp at 70 mph (113 km/h), and somewhat different power usage in other conditions.
Rocky Mountain Double
STAA double pup 28.5-foot trailers

The cargo trailer usually has tandem axles at the rear, each of which has dual wheels, or eight tires on the trailer, four per axle. In the US it is common to refer to the number of wheel hubs, rather than the number of tires; an axle can have either single or dual tires with no legal difference. The combination of eight tires on the trailer and ten tires on the tractor is what led to the moniker eighteen wheeler, although this term is considered by some truckers to be a misnomer (the term “eighteen-wheeler” is a nickname for a five-axle over-the-road combination). Many trailers are equipped with movable tandem axles to allow adjusting the weight distribution.

To connect the second of a set of doubles to the first trailer, and to support the front half of the second trailer, a converter gear known as a “dolly” is used. This has one or two axles, a fifth-wheel coupling for the rear trailer, and a tongue with a ring-hitch coupling for the forward trailer. Individual states may further allow longer vehicles, known as “longer combination vehicles” (or LCVs), and may allow them to operate on roads other than Interstates.

Long combination vehicle types include:

  1. Doubles (officially “STAA doubles”, known colloquially as “a set of joints”): Two 28.5 ft (8.7 m) trailers.
  2. Triples: Three 28.5 ft (8.7 m) trailers.
  3. Turnpike Doubles: Two 48 ft (14.6 m) trailers.
  4. Rocky Mountain Doubles: One 40 to 53 ft (12.2 to 16.2 m) trailer (though usually no more than 48 ft (14.6 m)) and one 28.5 ft (8.7 m) trailer (known as a “pup”).
  5. In Canada, a Turnpike Double is two 53 ft (16.2 m) trailers, and a Rocky Mountain Double is a 50 ft (15.2 m) trailer with a 24 ft (7.3 m) “pup”.

Future long combination vehicles under consideration and study for the U.S. MAP-21 transportation bill are container doubles. These combinations are under study for potential recommendation in November 2014:

  1. 40 ft (12 m) trailer Turnpike Doubles, 148,000 lb (67,000 kg) GVWR
  2. 40 ft (12 m) and 20 ft (6.1 m) trailer Rocky Mountain Doubles, 134,000 lb (61,000 kg) GVWR
  3. Double 20 ft (6.1 m) trailers.

The US federal government, which only regulates the Interstate Highway System, does not set maximum length requirements (except on auto and boat transporters), only minimums. Tractors can pull two or three trailers if the combination is legal in that state. Weight maximums are 20,000 lb (9,100 kg) on a single axle, 34,000 lb (15,000 kg) on a tandem, and 80,000 lb (36,000 kg) total for any vehicle or combination. There is a maximum width of 8.5 ft (2.6 m) and no maximum height.

Roads other than the Interstates are regulated by the individual states, and laws vary widely. Maximum weight varies between 80,000 lb (36,000 kg) to 171,000 lb (78,000 kg), depending on the combination. Most states restrict operation of larger tandem trailer setups such as triple units, turnpike doubles and Rocky-Mountain doubles. Reasons for limiting the legal trailer configurations include both safety concerns and the impracticality of designing and constructing roads that can accommodate the larger wheelbase of these vehicles and the larger minimum turning radii associated with them. In general, these configurations are restricted to the Interstates. Except for these units, double setups are not restricted to certain roads any more than a single setup. They are also not restricted by weather conditions or “difficulty of operation”. The Canadian province of Ontario, however, does have weather-related operating restrictions for larger tandem trailer setups.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semi-trailer_truck

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Storage Container Specifications

Basic dimensions and permissible gross weights of intermodal containers are largely determined by two ISO standards:

  • ISO 668:2013 Series 1 freight containers—Classification, dimensions and ratings
  • ISO 1496-1:2013 Series 1 freight containers—Specification and testing—Part 1: General cargo containers for general purposes

Weights and dimensions of the most common standardized types of containers are given below. Values vary slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer, but must stay within the tolerances dictated by the standards. Empty weight (tare weight) is not determined by the standards, but by the container’s construction, and is therefore indicative, but necessary to calculate a net load figure, by subtracting it from the maximum permitted gross weight.

20′ container 40′ container 40′ high-cube container 45′ high-cube container
imperial metric imperial metric imperial metric imperial metric
external
dimensions		 length 19′ 10.5″ 6.058 m 40′ 0″ 12.192 m 40′ 0″ 12.192 m 45′ 0″ 13.716 m
width 8′ 0″ 2.438 m 8′ 0″ 2.438 m 8′ 0″ 2.438 m 8′ 0″ 2.438 m
height 8′ 6″ 2.591 m 8′ 6″ 2.591 m 9′ 6″ 2.896 m 9′ 6″ 2.896 m
interior
dimensions		 length 19′ 3″ 5.867 m 39′ 5 45⁄64″ 12.032 m 39′ 4″ 12.000 m 44′ 4″ 13.556 m
width 7′ 8 19⁄32″ 2.352 m 7′ 8 19⁄32″ 2.352 m 7′ 7″ 2.311 m 7′ 8 19⁄32″ 2.352 m
height 7′ 9 57⁄64″ 2.385 m 7′ 9 57⁄64″ 2.385 m 8′ 9″ 2.650 m 8′ 9 15⁄16″ 2.698 m
door aperture width 7′ 8 ⅛″ 2.343 m 7′ 8 ⅛″ 2.343 m 7′ 6″ 2.280 m 7′ 8 ⅛″ 2.343 m
height 7′ 5 ¾″ 2.280 m 7′ 5 ¾″ 2.280 m 8′ 5″ 2.560 m 8′ 5 49⁄64″ 2.585 m
internal volume 1,169 ft³ 33.1 m³ 2,385 ft³ 67.5 m³ 2,660 ft³ 75.3 m³ 3,040 ft³ 86.1 m³
maximum
gross weight		 66,139 lb 30,400 kg 66,139 lb 30,400 kg 68,008 lb 30,848 kg 66,139 lb 30,400 kg
empty weight 4,850 lb 2,200 kg 8,380 lb 3,800 kg 8,598 lb 3,900 kg 10,580 lb 4,800 kg
net load 61,289 lb 28,200 kg 57,759 lb 26,200 kg 58,598 lb 26,580 kg 55,559 lb 25,600 kg
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Should I Buy A Used Storage Trailer Or A New Storage Trailer?

The economic weakness is still very much alive in the faces of the millions who are still jobless and are mired in debt. And while businesses are slowly pulling up, this does not mean that business owners can already relax. The call to continue whatever cost saving measures they have started during the recession remains. This is also true for private individuals. Somehow, everyone seems to have learned the art and skill of smart shopping. And when purchasing goods, especially if it’s a major one, be it for business or home use, a buyer evaluates his options carefully before any final decision is made. If you are in need or a storage trailer, one of the primary questions that you have to answer with careful thought is whether you should by a used storage trailer or a new one.

If your budget is limitless on a storage trailer, there is not much of a question. In fact, you won’t lose much if you want to sell them later because its value depreciates very slowly. However, if you have budget constraints, choosing to buy the used storage trailer can still be a great option. New storage containers usually cost thousands of dollars. A basic 20′ unit can cost from $1,000 to $4,000 or more while a 40′ storage units can be bought for $1,400 to $5,400. Buying a used storage trailer, on the other hand, reduces cost to about 30% to 50%. There are thousands of suppliers of used trailer trucks and finding good units is not so impossible. What most vendors do is to buy used trailer and find a good repairman to fix it up. Repair works can include replacing of any broken part, ensuring its water tightness and repainting it. Trailers have a useful life of twenty years and there is just a need for regular maintenance.

You also have several options for a used storage trailer. There are lower end units which often connote the ‘as is’ condition, have a few add-ons but without any guarantee against water and fire damage. Expect this to be cheaper than the higher end ones which are fully reconditioned and include the features and functionality of a brand new model. End users of used trailers are mid to small size firms, private carriers and trucking companies. New trailers are usually catering to national companies and major haul carriers because of the five year warranty, accelerated depreciation, lower maintenance cost and company image. Generally, they sell these new trailers after every 5 to 7 years which implies that they are still in good condition, carrying at least 75% of its useful life. Looking at all these basics, buying a used storage trailer is a great cost saving alternative.

Used storage trailers are best if money is an issue. A new storage trailer depreciates slowly so it’s a good investment.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Milton_Smith/798957

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Buying Used Storage Trailers

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Are you interested in buying used storage trailers? You are not alone, in fact many people want to buy them to keep stuff in. Storage trailers are actually quite popular because they’re large, they don’t look bad and withstand the weather for years to come.

Trailers are actually a cheap way to store your stuff. Some people pay money every month to have their stuff stored at those self storage places. If you buy a used storage trailer then you can just put your stuff into it and not have to worry about a monthly fee. You own the trailer and so there is no fee.

Used trailers can be used for a number of things. They’re really quite handy thing to have. I have seen people at flea markets sell stuff out of storage trailers. Another great thing about them is that they do not lose their value very fast. A new storage trailer will lose some value of course, but when you buy a used one it has already dropped in value.

Some trailers will still have the semi wheels on it. In other words it could still be hauled around by a semi truck. Others will be just a view box itself without the wheels. If you don’t plan on moving the trailer around then this would be the best way to go.

Some people like the looks of a semi trailer versus just the box on the ground. It’s really up to you what you want. If you get a semi trailer with the wheels still on to it, then you will need some sort of steps made to get into it. This is one of the benefits of having just the box, it will be on ground level.

Used trailers are becoming more and more popular. They are affordable ways to store your stuff versus buying a storage building. A used storage trailer can keep your stuff safe and dry for many years to come.

There are many different types of used storage trailers to choose from. Your local trailer dealer will answer all your questions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Milton_Smith

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Refrigerated Trailer Hire and Cold Storage Trailer Hire – A Mobile Solution to Catering Problems

By Iman Bahrani

Refrigerated Trailer Hire is a good method of catering to private or business needs. When you have a private party in an outdoor location and you do not want to go through all the trouble of enlisting the services of a local eatery or restaurant, then a cold storage trailer hire will solve your problem. Here are other advantages of a refrigerated trailer hire.

Facilitates Catering

Mobile cold storage rental services can facilitate catering. Their mobility helps a lot because the distance and location of the venue would not be a problem. Even if you will conduct the activity in the park or somewhere outdoors, catering will not be a problem. The cold storage trailer hire will do the task for you.

Catering Equipment

Most refrigerated trailers provide catering equipment, tableware, and other support equipment. This would save you time and money. There are used trailers, which you can also hire for catering equipment. They may also offer discounted prices and competitive quotes.

Short and Long Term Hiring

You can hire the refrigerated trailers for a short period or for a longer time depending on your preferences. If you opt for long term hiring, you can save on cost as well. Some providers give discounted rates for long-term use.

Available for Any Occasion

Whether it is a wedding, a birthday, an anniversary, or a graduation treat, a refrigerated trailer hire is the answer to your catering needs. You do not have to worry about spoiled food or items.

Stable and Reliable Temperatures

You can always count on the maintenance of stable and reliable temperatures. You are assured of the integrity and good quality of the food, beverages, and many other items that need refrigerated temperatures to be preserved. The temperatures are closely monitored and maintained through its precise operating features.

Caters also to Other Needs

If you are in the farming industry, you could also opt for refrigerated trailer hire to transport your products. If you need an on-the-spot-chiller, then you could do so with these trailers. They provide a variety of services to anyone who needs refrigerated temperatures to conduct their business, activity or event.

Indeed, a mobile cold storage is the answer for problems requiring preservation and chilling of food and certain items. Select from a wide variety of trailers.

A cold storage trailer will surely solve the problem for you.

Anglian Trailer Centre is East Anglia’s leading supplier of refrigerated and cold storage trailers for leisure and professional events.

Article Source: Refrigerated Trailer Hire and Cold Storage Trailer Hire – A Mobile Solution to Catering Problems

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Used Storage Trailers for Sale – What Buyers Should Look For

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Buyers are often confused with the decision of buying a new or used storage trailer. While some of them prefer new trailers others opt to buy used trailers that are sold at a cheaper price. It’s easy to buy a brand new trailer but with used trailers there are several important things you need to keep in mind. From your budget to the condition of the vehicle, there are a number of factors that you should look out for. Here are a few things you must look for when buying used trailers.

1. The Condition

Whatever your storage needs, you have to make sure the vehicle is in good condition. Do not be tempted buy one which is broken beyond repair just because it is cheap as you would not want to spend a good amount of money on just repairs and fixtures. Check the floor for any signs of rusting or rotting and make sure the chassis is still in a good condition.

2. The Cost

Cost is the second factor you have to figure out. Research the current market rates and find out what is the average market price for a used trailer. Also determine if the price is fitting your budget. If it is in good condition but exceeds your budget slightly, do not hesitate to buy it. It is rare to come across used vehicles in good condition under a reasonable price.

3. The Size

When buying, you also have to make sure the size meets your requirement. If you need one for temporary use then renting would be a better option than buying one. Keep in mind the parking space required for it when considering the various sizes.

4. Weight Capacity

You have to ensure how much weight the vehicle is capable of carrying. Some may look huge but if it doesn’t have a strong base or strong wheels, it cannot handle much weight. Make sure the base is strong enough and inspect the wheels carefully. Ideally the maximum load should be stamped on it, however do consult with the company you are buying it from.

5. Design and Construction

You must also check the design and construction to satisfy yourself regarding the durability of it. Check how thick the metal is and if the vehicle is strong enough. If the trailer has a weak design then it will not be beneficial for you to buy it as it might cause safety issues. Spend a few dollars more and get one with a good design durable structure.

If you buy a used trailer, make sure you don’t have to spend extra money on renovating or servicing it. That would be useless if you spend more on renovation rather than on buying the product itself.

Used trailers for sale NJ

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The Multiple Purposes of Storage Containers

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Both the wholesalers and retailers can now take advantage storage containers, which have multiple utilities. A variety of containers are available these days making the choice of the buyer difficult. Dealers usually deliver them from the wholesale agencies that have a big inventory of them. When choosing one, make sure that it does not have any faults or you will waste the money spent for it. Some may prefer to use one-trip containers for too heavy loads. You can ask your dealer for help when you are going to choose one, as he may direct you to the right one.

Many prefer to choose the cheapest option by buying used containers. If you would like to purchase a used container, the dealer is going to give you certification that it is cargo worthy. The great variety of storage containers ensures that all customers’ needs are met, so that all clients can choose the right type of container.

Those who are unfortunate to have their containers leak, batter or rust may take advantage of companies that can quickly fix these issues instead of buying a new one. Before buying and using, always inspect thoroughly to see if your container is in good condition and to ensure its safety, since it happens that paint conceal some leakage.

Companies can order containers in bulk to receive more competitive rates. A good research will reveal you those wholesale dealers from which you can buy these storage tools at lesser price. It is very convenient to make an order online through dealer’s site, as you will be able to browse all the specifics of container and check out its modifications. They may offer new as well as used storage containers for sell.

Different sizes and forms of containers are available to meet the various needs of people and are multi-usable. They are the best storing solution, since they can be used for a variety of different purposes. In addition, they can be found at reasonable prices, especially if you opt to buy them online. You may also receive a good price if you but them in bulk. Customers may also choose from container equipment for example flat rack, high cube or refrigerated containers that are in high demand.

Storage containers are a perfect solution if you need to change your residence and move along with your belongings to another place. Some people move constantly due to their job. They will benefit from these kinds of containers that will make their moving quite easier and hassle-free.

Even those who have a permanent place to live may find a storage container useful, as they can use it as a storage place in their home or even work. People can simply use them the way they like after it is delivered and installed at the desired place. This is a perfect solution to store all kind of stuff that you do not want to throw out, but rather keep it for future usage. It will also help you tidy up the house of all extra trash and give you more space for your other necessities.

When you are looking for reliable and sturdy Storage Containers for Sale, rely only on Coronado Mobile Storage.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Umesh

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Finding Storage Trailers For Sale Just Got Simpler

By Milton Smith

These days, many of us need more room than we are able to afford owning. Property prices might be down, but getting the kind of loans needed to buy or build is out of the question for the vast majority of us now, thanks to the way the economy has been recently. If you are hoping to be able to find good storage trailers for sale then you will definitely be delighted to learn that these are quite simple to find now. You can get what you need for a lot less than you might think, too. These trailers can be a real boon when you have to haul things and get them from one place to the next in a safe manner. They are also useful for holding things that you only tend to need on a once in a while basis. When you need a smart investment, these trailers make a very good choice because they are so versatile and do not require another company to move them for you as others so often do. You can find storage trailers for sale through a variety of places and that is definitely going to make things a lot easier on you or the company you are working for.

Mobility is huge these days and portable solutions are definitely the way to go for the vast majority of us. It is not always easy to find the very best deals out there, but if we play our cards right then it might just be easier than we think. If you are hoping to have the right selection of storage trailers for sale then you may want to consider checking out a dealer. They are often able to offer a lot of advantages that a private seller of used trailers would not be able to. They can give you payment plans or other financing packages and generally have a wider selection of options from which you can choose, as well as a warranty that is going to be a very smart idea for you to consider. If you have been thinking that this would make things simpler on you, you are definitely right. You can find a great value in storage trailers for sale right on the web because so many more dealers and private sellers are embracing this way to do business. It makes things much more simple for you.

As you can see, your storage trailer needs are going to be a great deal easier to meet once you know you have the right set of advantages. If you are looking to find the best trailer, then visit your local trailer dealer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Milton_Smith

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A Self-Storage Holiday Checklist

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With the winter holidays approaching, you have so much on your mind. You’re shopping for gifts, getting out the festive decorations, and planning to bake an assortment of sweets. This is a time to remember family and renew faith, and to enjoy the time spent with loved ones. People may ask what you’d like for a gift, and while you probably have a list stashed somewhere part of you may concede to at least one practical present. Storage space, for one, is a necessity you don’t think of giving to a person, but it could make a great gift for yourself.

If you do have a rented self-storage unit, you may end up visiting it often during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re there to retrieve the tree and the outdoor lights and Christmas signage, or you’re removing stuff to make room for next year’s storage, you would do well to compose a storage wish list. Self-storage helps you organize your home and remove clutter from high-traffic rooms. If you have not yet rented a unit, here are some items to put on that wish list.

1) Sturdy boxes and containers to hold items. As children grow older you may hesitate to get rid of clothes that no longer fit or toys that are left in closets. Some things may be handed down, so you hold them for a while. You’ll need good containers for this task – color coded to help you find things on the fly.

2) Colored tape for easy labeling. With some boxes, it’s helpful to use colored tape to mark which items came from your kitchen, and which from your bedroom. From there, it’s only a matter of grabbing the right box and going about the rest of your day.

3) A secure lock. Even in self-storage facilities with security, there is always the risk of theft. Many places offer locks for sale, but if you want a particular brand you can get one for your unit.

4) A good hand truck. Nobody likes to carry heavy boxes, especially if long distances are involved. A hand truck for stacking boxes lets you move with ease, plus it is a good tool to have around the house for other jobs.

This holiday season, consider the gift of rented storage space for your family. With unnecessary items placed in a unit, you have more room to breathe and enjoy the new gifts.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk self-storage and Chesapeake self-storage.

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Self Storage Fast Facts

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Self storage is a basic need for many people these days. They are families who live in small homes or apartments, those moving to a new home, single people moving to a new place of work or students who are moving to new school away from home.

There’s no denying that the demand for this kind of facility continues to remain high. This fact has led investors to build more structures to keep up with the demand. Today, self storage is considered the fastest growing commercial real estate industry in the U.S. and growth is seen to continue moving forward.

Global trend

As of 2009, there were 58,000 self storage facilities around the world. Of this figure, 46,000 were in the U.S. covering a rental space of approximately 2.35 billion square feet. Statistics also show that some 3,000 new storage facilities were constructed every year for a five year period from 2000 to 2005.

Data from 2006 revealed that compared to the U.S., Australia has 22 million of rentable square feet while the U.K. had 20 million.

Self storage is in high demand in the U.S. In fact, revenue from this industry is said to be more than what Hollywood earns. In addition, one in 10 Americans were found to be renting a unit.

Popularity

Originally, these rental units were meant to provide storage space only for the short term. These days, however, more than 96 percent of tenants stay for more than a year with some renting space for even several years.

The popularity of this facility continues right now and showing no signs of waning in the coming years. A 2011 survey by SelfStorage.com reported that 73 percent of facility owners claimed steady revenue or revenue growth from the previous year.

An interesting fact you might want to know is that owing to self storage’s popularity, it has inspired two new television programs that first aired in 2010. These are the Storage Wars and Auction Hunters that focus on storage auctions. These auctions are conducted to sell the item at self storage units abandoned or not paid by the tenants. The hosts of the shows are given a challenge each time which is to find rare items that can sell for a high amount when auctioned. They should then be able to profit well from the items.

Business

On the business side, many companies are looking into purchasing properties notably high-quality ones. Merchant builders are also building, leasing and selling self storage properties targeted at cash flow investors. Meanwhile, owners continue to enjoy strong cash flows although some are experiencing less activity.

On the other hand, property buyers are given increased access to capital these days. This development allows them to grow their portfolios through acquisition of existing storage facility.

There are also zoning-driven buyers who are in the business of seeking locations for other businesses. Reports have it that they have become more aggressive compared to the traditional buyers.

All these facts only show that the self storage industry remains strong in the face of issues.

For more information on Self Storage visit http://www.mystorageworks.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kalyan_Kumar