TL;DR
There is a wide range of trucks and trailers utilized for many shipping applications, both commercial and residential. Understanding the type of trailer required for your shipment is essential in protecting your freight from damage caused by the elements, loading, and unloading, or temperature. Today, we will tell you about the vented van trailer, when it’s used, how it differs from other vans and its benefits.
The vented van is primarily used for shipping dry and non-perishable goods. These vans are equipped with vents at the front and back of the trailer that serve to circulate air and protect against the elements. The dry goods most commonly transported are nursery stock and specific foods and plastics, which we’ll discuss further below.
A vented trailer is relied on to carry a number of different products, including:
So, how does a vented dry van differ from a regular dry van ? The greatest difference between the two is the circulation of air within the trailer. Vented vas contain, you guessed it, vents, in the front and the rear of the trailer to encourage airflow. This is a great alternative to using a reefer, or refrigerated truck for items that require air circulation but not a strict temperature-controlled environment.
The vents in these trailers can differ as well. Some vents look like small doors, with the capability of being closed to protect against damage caused by moisture outside. Some vents, however, are similar to standard air conditioning and heating vents, a metal plate with slits.
Here is a quick comparison of where vented vans fit compared with other common enclosed trailers:
| Trailer type | Airflow | Temperature control | Common fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vented van | Passive airflow through built-in vents | No active refrigeration | Produce, nursery stock, and dry goods that need ventilation |
| Dry van | Minimal intentional airflow | No active refrigeration | General dry freight that needs weather protection but not airflow |
| Reefer trailer | Enclosed, with controlled circulation | Yes, active refrigeration | Freight that must stay within a target temperature range |
The primary benefit of a vented van trailer is the trailer’s ability to keep its freight well ventilated and cool. Vents serve to reduce the build-up of heat that trailers produce, especially for goods like onions and nursery stock that can cause pungent fumes in heat. Vented vans eliminate the risks associated with transporting certain goods and produce.
Vented vans are usually chosen when the shipment needs more protection than an open trailer can provide, but using a reefer would add cost and equipment that the load does not actually require.
Common examples include:
In those cases, a vented van can be the middle ground between a standard dry van and a full refrigerated truck . Shippers get enclosed protection, but the trailer still helps prevent stale air, trapped humidity, and unnecessary heat buildup.
A vented van trailer is used for dry freight that benefits from airflow but does not need full refrigeration. It is a practical option for products that need protection from the elements while still allowing ventilation inside the trailer.
Goods that can be affected by trapped heat, humidity, or odors are often good fits for vented vans. Common examples include nursery stock, onions, potatoes, pumpkins, watermelon, and certain plastic products.
A vented van improves airflow through vents, while a reefer trailer actively controls temperature with refrigeration equipment. If the load needs strict temperature control, a reefer is the better choice. If the freight mainly needs ventilation, a vented van can be enough.
If you need a vented van or you’re looking to ship a freight but don’t know which van type should be used for the shipment, DFW trucking company can help. We have a wide variety of trucks and trailers to choose from, just get a freight transportation quote for consultation or call 817-398-3464 .
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