Sattelzug

Sattelzug is the German term for a semi-trailer truck, a heavy road freight vehicle consisting of a tractor unit (Sattelzugmaschine) and a semi-trailer (Sattelanhänger) connected by a fifth-wheel coupling. In this configuration the trailer carries the payload and the tractor provides propulsion; the front of the trailer rests on a kingpin that engages the fifth wheel, allowing the trailer to pivot independently from the towing vehicle. This setup enables a high payload with a relatively short overall length compared to conventional trailers.

The tractor and trailer are joined by a fifth-wheel hitch: the semi-trailer has a kingpin that locks into the fifth wheel on the tractor, distributing the weight between the vehicle’s axles. Trailer types include dry vans, curtain-siders, refrigerated units, and flatbeds. Multi-axle configurations distribute load and comply with road- and load-regulations in various countries; the combination's gross vehicle weight is typically around 40 tonnes in Europe, with higher limits only under special permits.

Sattelzüge are the backbone of long-haul freight and cross-border transport in many German-speaking and European countries, offering high payload efficiency and flexibility in trailer type. They enable rapid trailer swaps and support intermodal logistics where road transport links to rail or shipping networks.

Regulatory and safety aspects: The operation requires appropriate driving licenses (for example category CE in many jurisdictions), tachograph or other compliance, and adherence to hours-of-service rules. Modern Sattelzüge may include safety and efficiency features such as anti-lock braking systems, electronic stability control, and load-security equipment.