Top 3 Freight Types Compared: Dry Van vs. Reefer vs. Flatbed

Starting a trucking business comes with many decisions. One of the most important is choosing the right type of freight to haul. This choice affects your income, workload, equipment needs, and even the routes you take.

There are three major types of freight: Dry Van, Reefer, and Flatbed. Each has its own benefits and challenges. If you’re unsure which one is right for your business, this article will help you compare them and make an informed decision.

Let’s take a closer look at each type and see what makes them different.

Understanding the Freight Basics

Before comparing these freight types, it’s helpful to know what they are.

• Dry Van: The most common trailer type. It’s a closed box used to haul general goods that don’t need temperature control.
• Reefer: A refrigerated trailer used to carry goods that must stay cold or frozen, like food or medicine.
• Flatbed: An open trailer without sides or a roof. It’s used for heavy or oversized items that can’t fit inside a van.

All three types can be profitable. But success depends on your goals, experience, and equipment.

Dry Van vs. Reefer vs. Flatbed: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Let’s break down each trailer type to better understand how they work.

Dry Van: Versatile and Widely Used

Dry vans are everywhere. They haul everything from paper goods and clothing to electronics and canned food. Because the trailer is enclosed, freight stays dry and safe from the weather.

Pros:

• Easy to find loads year-round
• Simple loading and unloading at docks
• Low maintenance compared to reefers
• Less physical work than flatbeds

Cons:

• Rates can be lower due to high competition
• Deadhead miles are common in some areas
• Delays at shipping docks are frequent

Dry vans are ideal for beginners. If you’re just starting out or want steady work, this might be the right option.

Reefer: For Temperature-Sensitive Loads

Reefer trailers are like dry vans but with built-in cooling systems. They carry frozen foods, dairy, flowers, and even medical products.

Pros:

• Higher rates than dry vans
• Steady demand in food and health industries
• Loads available in all seasons

Cons:

• Requires more maintenance
• Fuel costs are higher due to the cooling unit
• Time-sensitive deliveries can be stressful
• Risk of rejected loads if the temperature fails

If you’re willing to manage tight schedules and take care of the equipment, reefers can be a very profitable choice.

Flatbed: Ideal for Oversized or Heavy Cargo

Flatbed trailers are open platforms. They haul items like steel, lumber, heavy machinery, and construction materials. These loads are often too big or heavy for enclosed trailers.

Pros:

• High-paying loads
• Less waiting at docks (many loads are drop-and-hook)
• Broad range of cargo types

Cons:

• Exposed to weather, so loads must be tarped
• Requires physical labor to secure cargo
• Not suitable in extreme winter weather
• Safety risks when climbing or loading

Flatbed work is great for experienced drivers who don’t mind getting hands-on. It’s also a good fit if you’re looking for higher rates and fewer dock delays.

Key Factors to Consider Before Choosing

Now that you know the basics, how do you choose the best freight type? Consider these factors before making your decision:

1. Your Experience Level

New drivers often start with dry vans because they’re simple and don’t need special handling. Reefers and flatbeds may require more experience or training.

2. Equipment and Maintenance Costs

Dry vans are cheaper to buy and maintain. Reefers cost more due to cooling units. Flatbeds require equipment like tarps, straps, and edge protectors.

3. Physical Requirements

Flatbed work can be physically demanding. If you prefer less labor, dry vans or reefers are better options.

4. Profit Margins

While flatbeds and reefers usually offer higher rates, they also come with higher costs and responsibilities. Dry vans may earn less per mile but cost less to run.

5. Load Availability in Your Area

Think about where you’re based. Some regions have more reefer loads due to agriculture. Others may have more flatbed freight due to construction.

Matching your trailer type with local demand can reduce deadhead miles and keep your truck full.

Which Freight Type Offers the Best Profit Margin?

Profit isn’t just about how much you’re paid per load. You also have to think about costs, time, and wear on your truck.

• Dry Vans: Lower rates but lower costs. Great for steady income.
• Reefers: Higher pay but higher stress and expenses.
• Flatbeds: Top rates but physical work and safety risks.

If you want consistency with less hassle, dry vans are a safe bet. For better income and tighter schedules, reefers make sense. If you’re willing to do some hard work and want top dollar, flatbeds may be your best option.

Final Verdict: What’s Best for Your Trucking Business?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each freight type has its own pros and cons. What works for one driver may not suit another.

Choose dry van if you:

• Want easy entry into trucking
• Prefer less physical labor
• Need simple equipment

Choose reefer if you:

• Want higher-paying loads
• Can handle strict delivery windows
• Are ready for more maintenance and responsibility

Choose flatbed if you:

• Want maximum earnings
• Don’t mind physical work
• Have experience and safety training

Take time to research your area and talk to other drivers. Your decision should match your goals, budget, and comfort level.

Need help finding the right loads for your trailer type?
At Accel Dispatch, we specialize in dry van, reefer, and flatbed dispatch services. Our expert team helps you find the best-paying loads, cuts deadhead miles, and handles paperwork—so you can focus on driving.