Tandem Trailer
For many people, any trailer that is being pulled by a truck is called a tandem trailer. That’s basing it on the layman’s understanding of the word ‘tandem’, which basically means two things lining up one after the other and every element facing the same direction. However, if you take a textbook definition of the term it refers to a trucking rig where you have a tractor that pulls a couple of trailers one after the other.
Assortment of Names
People call tandem trailers by so many different names. The names are a mix of colloquial terms and established and accepted names. Nevertheless, they all basically refer to the very same thing. Some countries call them artics or articulated vehicles. Others simply call it a trailer while some call it a semi-trailer. Others call them truck and trailers, others just call them rigs or big rigs. In some places they even get the ominous name of juggernaut.
Nevertheless, the basic definition holds true. You have a towing vehicle in the front and a trailer or two trailers following it. Some are designed to follow the towing vehicle completely others not. The differences come into the design of both the trailers and the towing vehicle. When you’re out looking for tandem trailers to buy, you should pay attention to the differences in design and not the term they use to call a specific kind of trailer.
Understanding the Configurations
The number of truck and trailer configurations you’ll find will be as varied as the number of manufacturers and the place where you decide to order your equipment. North American semi tractors will usually be configured with three axles. However, their cargo trailer will have tandem axles. You will also find different configurations for longer combination vehicles.
Most European models will have the somewhat trademark ‘cab over engine’ configuration. The sheer face on these models allows greater maneuverability. This is quite advantageous for smaller trucks that pull longer trailers. This basically allows a greater freight capacity even for smaller towing vehicles. However, take note of the legal maximum lengths and capacities allowed in your country or state before deciding to get one these models.
Match the Model to the Need
Remember to match the trailer configurations with your intended use. Keep in mind the average load you intend to transport and get a matching truck and trailer configuration. All the while, you should also consider the cost of the specific type of trailer combination you intend to purchase. Another thing you should also watch out for is the local regulations in the countries or states you will be driving in.
Follow Local Regulations
Be sure to take into consideration the local regulations in your state or country. Take note that there is usually a maximum height, width, and length for these kinds of vehicles. In the United States, you need to follow the guidelines and standards set by the Federal Highway Administration. However, you should also take into account the fact that some states also have specific regulations other than federal laws. Get the tandem trailers that fall within the established regulations.
Manufacturers
There are a lot of tandem trailer manufacturers in the many countries of the world. Big names in the United States include Mack, Kenworth, DaimlerChrysler, Freightliner, Western Star, Volvo, American Coleman, Navistar International, Peterbilt, Hino, and Sterling Trucks. Japan also has a lot of manufacturers that have established their presence in many parts of the world. You’ll find names like Nissan Diesel, Mitsubishi Fuso, and Isuzu.
European manufacturers include Renault Trucks, Mercedes-Benz, Iveco, DAF Trucks, MAN, Zil, Sisu, Kamaz, Tatra UAZ, Scania, and GAZ. There are also other manufacturer names coming from the other parts of the globe such as Ashok Leyland from India and Foton and FAW in China. These are only some of the names you’ll see when you consider purchasing tandem trailers.
Buyer Tips
Other than matching the type of tandem trailer with your specific load, use, or need, there are also a few things you can do to be sure you’re getting the right one. First is that you can call up local manufacturers and sellers and resellers in your area. A phonebook will become quite useful for this effort. You can compare what you can get out of brand new trailers and used ones.
You should also go beyond the brochure that the sales clerk hands over to you. You should especially go beyond what the banner ad says on the company website they will refer you to. After checking out the features and possible gains you can make from different trailer models, be sure to checkout reviews either from magazines or on the Internet. In case the cost is too high and/or the use you have in mind is quite limited, another option you can go for is simply just to rent a tandem trailer instead of buying one.