Logistics terms · Logistics terms

What does Trailer mean in logistics?

Short answer

An unpowered load-carrying vehicle pulled by a separate tractor (prime mover). Flatbed and skeletal trailers carry containers, steel, machinery and long loads.

In Indian trade "trailer" usually means a 40 ft flatbed or container trailer pulled by a tractor head. Trailers carry the heaviest regular loads and port containers. Ask our desk how this applies to your consignment.

Period: General definition. Data as of 29 Sep 2026. How we count

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The numbers behind this answer

Also called
tractor-trailer, flatbed trailer, articulated truck
Category
Road
Related terms
Low-bed trailer, Semi-low-bed trailer, Port haulage (drayage), Hydraulic axle trailer

Sources

  1. SSL logistics glossary

Period: General definition. Data as of 29 Sep 2026.

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