tractorsemitrailers

Tractor-semitrailers, often colloquially referred to as semi-trucks, are heavy-duty vehicles consisting of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailers to carry freight. The tractor unit is a powered, self-propelled vehicle that provides the motive force, while the semi-trailer is an unpowered, articulated vehicle that requires the tractor to be towed. This design allows for efficient transport of large quantities of goods over long distances.

The tractor unit typically contains the engine, transmission, cab for the driver, and drive axles. It is connected to the semi-trailer via a fifth-wheel coupling, a specialized horseshoe-shaped plate on the tractor that locks onto a kingpin on the trailer. This articulation allows the combined vehicle to maneuver, albeit with a significant turning radius. Semi-trailers come in various configurations, including dry vans for general cargo, refrigerated trailers (reefers) for perishable goods, flatbeds for oversized or oddly shaped items, and tankers for liquids or gases.

Tractor-semitrailers are the backbone of the logistics and transportation industry, playing a crucial role in moving goods from manufacturers to distributors and retailers. They are essential for both domestic and international trade. The operation of these vehicles is subject to stringent regulations regarding driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo weight to ensure safety on public roads. The sheer size and weight of tractor-semitrailers necessitate specialized training for drivers and careful consideration of road infrastructure.