The Standard 53' Semi-Trailer Dimensions

The average dimensions for a 53' semi-trailer are a 53' length, a 102" width, a door height of 110", and a total height of 13'6". These are the largest dimensions a trailer can come in before an oversized load. Anything larger would require additional permits to transport legally. Air Ride trailers (also called vans) have slight height variations. Dimensions are provided below in standard or imperial measures (not in metric), as is still standard in the shipping industry.

53' Air Ride Dry Van

INSIDE

52'7"

Height - 110" Nose

111 Door Opening

OUTSIDE

Length - 53*"

Width -

Height - 13'6*

45,000 Ibs - GW

The student will demonstrate the ability to maximize the cubic dimensions and payload of a the 53' air ride dry van. In addition, the student will research and discuss the following elements of performance in providing a report in their own words.

Elements of Performance

1. (5 marks) Review trailer/container types utilized in the trucking industry Number of axles and weight distribution Different chassis types; tandem, tri-axles, tridems, quads
2. (3 marks) Review the concept of Fuel Surcharge (FSC) and its use in the trucking industry
3. (3 marks) Review how payload limits differ between provinces in Canada and states within the USA
4. (4 marks) Review cabotage, driver hour limitation, truckload (TL) and less than truckload (LTL) within North America
5. (2 marks) Review the ability to modify pallet tier heights to maximize the cubic dimensions and/or payload (utilize a 4840 inch pallet)
6. (3 marks) Review common strategies for load securement and weight displacement utilizing bulkheads, airbags, saddlebags etc.