One of the biggest questions drivers ask is: what kind of trailer should I choose?
The truth is there’s no single right answer. It really comes down to three things:
1. The kind of person you are.
2. Where you want to run.
3. What the costs look like.
Let’s break it down.

WHAT KIND OF PERSON ARE YOU?

This is where most people start. It’s simple, easy, and usually keeps you clean, no tarps, no straps. But easy work usually means less pay. And since you’re not moving around much, don’t be surprised if you put on a few pounds.

Sometimes the pay is better, but you earn every penny. Expect 10 picks and 10 drops, waiting 8 hours to unload 2 pallets, and dealing with claims for things that aren’t even your fault. Plus, you’ll be spending good money on reefer fuel and repairs.

This one will keep you dirty. Two showers a day, easy. But the money? It shows. Don’t try this if you hate working outside in the cold, the heat, or the rain. Flatbed is for folks who love being outdoors, enjoy the challenge, and don’t mind breaking a sweat.

Heavy haul looks glamorous, but behind the Instagram photos are huge expenses: permits, escorts, oversized paperwork. And don’t forget, reloads are rare, so you’ll run a lot of empty miles.

If you love cars, this can be a dream. But be picky with your inspections and pictures and claims for scratches come quickly. The work is tough and outside most of the time.

Big responsibility. You’ll spend money on tank washes, and you better keep every single receipt for the next load. Without a direct contract, you’ll deal with plenty of empty miles between loads.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO RUN?

Let’s be honest, running local or regional off broker loads is almost impossible. Unless you’ve got your own customer or a steady contract, it’s hard to make real money. Brokers won’t give much on the boards.

OTR (Over-the-Road). 

This is where the work is. Dry van, reefer, flatbed, stepdeck, car hauler, they all dominate OTR. If you want steady miles, OTR is where you’ll find them.
Remember, your trailer only makes sense if there are loads to keep you moving.

INVESTMENT AND COST

Dry Van / Flatbed - the cheapest to buy, easiest to maintain. A great way to start.

Reefer - it means more money up front, plus fuel and constant repairs.

RGN / Lowboy - up to 5x the cost of a flatbed. Add permits, escorts, and registration fees on top. The pay can match, but it’s a gamble.

Car Hauler / Tanker - it means specialized gear, higher insurance, and bigger responsibility. They can pay well, but only if you’ve got good lanes and steady work.

OUR ADVICE