Semitrailer (Trailer)

What is a Semitrailer?

A semitrailer  – also simply called a trailer  – is a type of trailer without its own drive axle. Semitrailers are classified as non-motorized commercial vehicles and must have their own license plate when operated on public roads. They are primarily used in freight transport, but are also increasingly employed in agriculture.

Dimensions

Semitrailers registered in Germany typically have the following standard dimensions:

• Internal dimensions: approx. 13.625 m × 2.48 m × 2.70 m (length × width × height)
• Maximum external dimensions: approx. 13.68 m × 2.55 m × 4.00 m

Compared to truck-trailer combinations, semitrailers offer less loading length, as combined trailer setups can exceed 15 meters in load space.

Usage

Thanks to their design, semitrailers can be efficiently coupled with tractor units and quickly exchanged. This makes them particularly flexible for freight handling.