Semi Trailer Length
Semi Trailer Length
According to federal regulations, the length of a semi trailer is mandated to be at least 48 feet, with a more common length of 53 feet for most scenarios on the interstate system. These rules are in place to promote uniformity and proper accommodation of large freight transport vehicles.
The length of a semi-trailer for a 5-axle semi-truck trailer can vary greatly by state. While federal laws mandate that states cannot enforce a trailer length of less than 53 feet on interstates and access roads, states have the authority to permit shorter trailer lengths on non-federal roads. They can also allow longer trailers on any roads within their jurisdiction. For the most specific regulations, it’s advisable to check state-specific stiplations.
Variations by State
Here’s a detailed list of trailer length regulations by jurisdiction:
- Alabama: Minimum 57' 0", less than 12' wide roads - 53' 6" Max
- Alaska: 53' 0", non-designated highways 48' 0" Max
- Alberta: 53' 2"
- Arizona: 57' 6", other (non-interstate) highways 53' 0" Max
- Arkansas: 53' 6" Max; permits available for up to 59' 6"
- California: 53' 0", California Black Routes have no semi-trailer length limit
- Connecticut: 53' 0", non-designated state routes 48' 0" Max
- and many more states with similar variations...
Disclaimers and Notes
These figures are interpreted from the legal codes freely available. Please read our full disclaimer and inform us of any errors.
The Standard 53′ Semi-Trailer Dimensions
The average dimensions for a 53' semi-trailer include a length of 53 feet, a width of 102 inches, a door height of 110 inches, and a total height of 13'6". These are the largest dimensions a trailer can have before being classified as an oversized load, which would then require additional permits to transport legally. Air Ride trailers (also called vans) may have slight height variations. Dimensions are usually provided in standard or imperial measures, as it remains the standard in the shipping industry.
For more information, please visit AUTONE.
Maximizing Trailer Efficiency
The student will demonstrate the ability to maximize the cubic dimensions and payload of a 53' air ride dry van trailer. Additionally, the student will research and discuss several performance elements in a report written in their own words.
Elements of Performance
- Review trailer/container types utilized in the trucking industry
- Review the concept of Fuel Surcharge (FSC) and its use in the trucking industry
- Review how payload limits differ between Canadian provinces and US states
- Review cabotage, driver hour limitation, truckload (TL) and less than truckload (LTL) regulations in North America
- Review the ability to modify pallet tier heights to maximize cubic dimensions and/or payload
- Review common strategies for load securement and weight displacement using bulkheads, airbags, saddlebags etc.
For the following activity, explain the most efficient trailer loading pattern and show your calculations:
Calculate the following for a shipment from Toronto to Montreal using a 53-foot tandem axle air ride dry van with CHEP pallets measuring 48"x40"x6" and weighing 60 lbs each:
- Determine the load planning configuration to maximize the number of boxes in the trailer.
- Calculate the number of pallets that will fit into the trailer.
- Calculate the number of cartons of product (measuring 12"x12"x12") that can fit onto each pallet.
- Calculate the total number of cartons that can fit into the trailer without overhanging the sides of the pallets.
- If the maximum total weight of product that can be carried inside the trailer is 41,446 lbs, assuming all cartons weigh the same, what is the maximum weight in pounds of each carton?
The company is the world’s best autone wingspan van semitrailers supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly specialized and will help you find the product you need.