Until recently, both our and foreign manufacturers of semi-trailers sought to specialize, and for the time being this strategy justified itself: there was enough “pie” for everyone. But in the context of a global recession, another strategy works - diversifying the product portfolio. And today we are seeing how enterprises that until recently had a narrow specialization are invading neighboring segments, trying to bet on several “horses” - maybe they will take them out. The main segments are curtain-sided and curtain-sided semi-trailers for bulk long-haul transportation, tipper semi-trailers for bulk cargo and heavy-duty semi-trailers for the transportation of large, heavy cargo.
What type of semi-trailer should I choose?
Knowing the nature of the cargo, the answer to the question of how to choose a semi-trailer becomes easily solved. Isothermal and refrigerated semi-trailers are suitable for transporting food products. They are able to maintain the required temperature inside to avoid damage to the cargo. In a refrigerated semi-trailer, unlike a simple isothermal van, you can not only maintain the temperature, but also set the desired degree (from +30 to -30).
The very names of the semi-trailer-car transporter and container carrier indicate the purposes for which they are intended. Tipper semi-trailers are chosen for work in agricultural or construction work. The most popular in Russia are flatbed, tilt and curtain side semi-trailers. Transportation with this type of semi-trailer accounts for 60% of all transportation in the world.
Before choosing a semi-trailer, you need to understand their technical characteristics. The curtain side semi-trailer is easy to load, as the awning can easily be moved to the side, which significantly saves time.
Photo source: gruzovoy.ruThe properties of a truck frame depend on what material it is made from
The advantage of a flatbed semi-trailer is in its sides; they protect against cargo shifting and its possible loss. In such semi-trailers, the awning takes longer to attach, so you will have to work hard during loading and unloading operations. However, the design of these semi-trailers is more durable.
Choosing is a long process. Attention should be concentrated on the racks of the semi-trailer. The time it takes to prepare a semi-trailer will depend on what material they are made of, how durable and comfortable they are. Particular attention must be paid to the racks, in particular to the height fastening mechanisms. Pockets for sheathing can be welded or riveted. It is also advisable to choose a trailer in which the racks will not swing.
Foreign manufacturers of trailers and semi-trailers for trucks, tractors, trucks
Foreign-made models are becoming increasingly common on Russian roads. This is especially true for trucks. Among the manufacturers:
- Krone Nutzfahrzeuge produces curtain side semi-trailers with increased dimensions - Krone Profi Liner 16.5 m. Thanks to the streamlined shape, fuel savings amount to up to 5%. The model is designed to transport cargo with a volume of up to 110 m3, and the semi-trailer can be loaded from the top, side and rear.
- Schmitz Cargobull specialize in refrigerated and insulated vans. Galvanized frame parts are bolted or riveted. This technology is used in the aircraft industry. In addition, the company supplies curtain, tilt, and tipper semi-trailers and is one of the leading players in the European market, including the CIS countries
- Kögel Trailer. They produce curtain side semi-trailers and container carriers with an all-welded base. The frame undergoes thermal anti-corrosion treatment with complete immersion. Provision is made for replacement of main components in the field.
A more detailed review and comparison of classmates from various manufacturers are published in separate articles.
Author: TECHNOmagazine
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How to choose a semi-trailer: body features
When choosing a semi-trailer, pay attention to the front wall. It can be metal or aluminum. As a rule, in high-quality semi-trailers, the lower part of the metal wall is reinforced with a dense sheet of aluminum (about 6 mm) or a sheet of compressed plywood.
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Which tractor to choose?
When choosing a semi-trailer with an aluminum front wall, it is also important to know what profile it is made of, how it is fastened and how reinforced it is. There are semi-trailers on the market, the lower part of the wall of which is not insured against impact. In addition, there are semi-trailers whose front wall does not extend to the full height of the roof. This design of the semi-trailer is better adjustable, but sometimes has a negative impact on the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle.
A good bonus would be the choice of a metal-reinforced floor at the front wall, which will protect the semi-trailer from unsuccessful pallet installations or impacts during operation. Sliding roof trailers are available and use spring struts to improve stability. Most often, such racks are height adjustable.
Photo source: gruzovoy.ru Decide which version of the semi-trailer is best for you: the front wall can be made of metal or aluminum
When choosing any semi-trailer, you should pay attention to the number of hooks with which the cargo will subsequently be secured. The more there are, the better. Hooks can have a payload of 2 to 3.5 tons.
The following troubles may await you:
- Mortgaged property. A used semi-trailer may be pledged to the bank. Today it is difficult to determine the status of such property, since financial and credit organizations often do not even take the title from the owner.
- Unreliable leasing company. The system of purchasing freight transport for several years in itself still does not inspire much confidence. In addition, there is a risk of being left without a semi-trailer due to the bankruptcy of the company.
- Incorrect data in PTS. Because of this, you may lose your equipment in the future.
- PTS with a used semi-trailer assembly date that is too new. This indicates that this is a so-called constructor. A “new” semi-trailer, assembled from used parts, passes the documents as if it had just arrived from the factory.
- The presence of intermediaries and fraudsters in the purchase chain. It is very important to negotiate with the direct owner of the used semi-trailer.
- Saving. Do not try to undervalue the trailer to reduce taxes, in particular VAT. After this, in case of resale, you will not be able to indicate the real cost of the equipment.
- Payment. Only a confirmed bank transaction is evidence of the transfer of funds on account of the purchased semi-trailer. Other methods of calculation in case of problems cannot be proven in court.
In order to avoid making critical mistakes when purchasing a used semi-trailer, you only need to follow two simple rules.
- First, a thorough inspection of the body and components is necessary. Be especially careful when diagnosing the brake system.
- Second, follow all procedures required by applicable law. Don’t try to save a lot, don’t agree to overly attractive business offers. If you follow these two small rules, you are guaranteed to purchase a high-quality used semi-trailer that will not only pay for itself, but also bring you profit.
Selecting the rear portal of a semi-trailer
The portal can be metal or aluminum. Semi-trailers vary in the design of their hinges and locks. Naturally, locks are different; they can be positioned horizontally or vertically, and you can open them with one or two hands. It is believed that a horizontal lock, also called a “dovetail”, is more reliable.
Many carriers are afraid of aluminum structures, considering them short-lived, but this material is much lighter. But metal portals are placed only on a more powerful rear suspension.
Choosing a tipper semi-trailer for Russia
“What is good for a Russian is death for a German.” This funny saying can be used without much modification in the trucking industry. Here “what is good for a European is a loss for a Russian!” For example, our and foreign drivers often value completely different qualities in dump semi-trailers. Let's figure out why.
It's all about business mentality. Both in the Russian Federation and in the European Union there are restrictions on the maximum weight and length of a road train. The only difference is that abroad they try to adapt to these restrictions, while here they try to get around them. European manufacturers make the design of their trailers as light as possible, and carriers obediently transport cargo without exceeding the weight. Ours simply choose the strongest model, load it to capacity and hope for the best.
The domestic approach can hardly be called correct, because it results in a huge number of problems. Breakdowns, rollovers during unloading, cracks in the frame, wear of the fifth-wheel coupling device - all these are consequences of driving without regard to the rules. But this is how cargo transportation works “the Russian way,” and we are unlikely to be able to change it.
We can only accept it. And at the same time describe the ideal semi-trailer for Russia. Let's find out what qualities it has by evaluating three important elements - the frame, the body and the hydraulic cylinder.
Durable frame
A truly strong “dump truck” must be able to withstand three types of loads: bending, torsion, and impacts transmitted from the road surface. To withstand the first two “tests,” the frame must have many cross members and structural reinforcements. And a good air suspension with high straight shock absorbers will help minimize the damage from holes and potholes.
Also, a semi-trailer in the Russian Federation is simply required to have a reinforced rear part of the frame. The steel here must be thick, strong and reinforced with powerful crossbars. In overload driving conditions this is extremely important, and here's why...
When the body is in a horizontal position, the load acts on the semi-trailer relatively evenly. But during unloading, the mass of bulk material begins to press with enormous force on the back of the frame. And if the steel in this place is not good enough, sooner or later a breakdown will occur.
Another important detail related to the frame and the semi-trailer as a whole is the center of gravity. The higher it is, the less stability. Therefore, dump trucks with excessively large cubic capacity are not suitable for those who transport excessive amounts of raw materials. They most often turn over when unloading.
Comfortable body
There are two main types of body for dump semi-trailers - square and segment-shaped (half-pipe). Europeans like the latter form more, as it protects the semi-trailer from damage. Rounded sides absorb impacts from bulk materials during loading. However, the segment-shaped design is not very popular with those who are used to carrying everything. There are people who complain about the half-pipe because it is inconvenient to place road slabs in it.
Of course, any dump truck is primarily designed for transporting bulk cargo. It is more convenient and practical to transport them in a segment-shaped body. And for those who want to deliver more “exotic” items, a square model is more suitable.
Reliable hydraulic cylinder
The hydraulic system and its main link, the hydraulic cylinder, are responsible for unloading the dump semi-trailer. Naturally, the more powerful it is, the better. But successful unloading of large volumes of bulk raw materials does not depend on power alone. No less important is such a thing as the installation parameters of the cylinder.
It can be installed straight or inclined. In the first case, there is too much distance between the SSU platform and the hydraulic cylinder mounting support. When unloading, this will lead to excess pressure on the front part of the frame, which will ultimately result in deflections and cracks in it. Cylinders installed at an angle do not have such problems.
Much depends on such a small detail as the method of attaching the hydraulic cylinder. The most common is three-point fixation (two points on the bottom, one on top). This option is not very reliable and at times leads to serious problems when unloading excessive weight. The semi-trailer may skew or even roll over, especially if unloading is carried out on sloping areas. In addition, hydraulic cylinders with three-point fixation are more likely to bend due to excess pressure on their segments.
So it’s better to choose a four-point mount. And the higher the top of the cylinder is attached to the wall of the semi-trailer, the better. This gives greater stability when lifting the body.
Finally
Following all of the above recommendations means buying yourself a truly reliable semi-trailer.
Unfortunately, models in which all components and parts are made “wisely” are often too expensive. Therefore, when buying something you have to neglect. But even in this case, it is possible to buy a good tipper trailer for work in Russia. The main thing is to know who to make your purchase from. offers a wide selection of special trailer equipment for almost all types of transportation. With us you will always find a reliable semi-trailer at the best price. In addition, we are engaged in the hydraulicization of truck tractors and the sale of hydraulic cylinders of the Dutch AMP brand. So even if you already have a dump truck, it can be made even better with the help of the specialists of Even Group of Companies. We look forward to seeing you in our workshops!
Course for relief
However, almost none of the factories are reducing investments in R&D. Moreover, consumers are increasingly turning to them in search of non-standard solutions for specific tasks. And the implementation of individual projects becomes a platform for scaling new models.
“In most cases, custom models do not often become mass-produced. But it should be noted that many models, developed for a specific consumer and proven in terms of reliability and efficiency, are becoming popular products in the mass segment.
This is especially noticeable when legislative requirements change and weight control rules are tightened, when the carrier is forced to look for a vehicle that best suits its needs with the ability to safely transport a large mass of cargo without violating restrictions on weight or dimensional parameters.
Of course, vehicles manufactured to customer requirements provide an opportunity to look at the existing model range from a different angle, create space for innovation and thus enable the development of design ideas. We, as manufacturers, try to follow trends in the market and offer already proven and tested solutions for our clients,” shares the sales department manager of Alexey Filinsky LLC.
“We have experience in producing a three-axle lightweight container semi-trailer with a remote front axle for use with a 6x2 tractor. This chassis layout allows you to transport up to 31.5 tons of cargo without overloading the axles.
This model has actively entered the “series”, as it turned out to be very relevant in the current conditions, when the issue of overload has become “an edge,” confirms German Vertov, executive director of Orthaus Trailers Rus LLC (Orthaus brand).
However, according to him, not all innovations move into the mass segment. For example, at the request of one of the clients who transports composite cargo and unloads the container in places where there is no ramp, Orthaus designers developed a specific model of a container semi-trailer with hydraulic rotation. And it's still in one copy.
“Individual-order developments are most often additional options for serial semi-trailers. They are issued as original equipment and remain as a piece product, made to order. Semi-trailer models are being mass-produced in the most popular configurations, equipped with the most popular options,” says Lenar Garifullin, chief designer of special equipment at the Scientific and Technical Center of KAMAZ PJSC.
Often, new models enter the market after changes have been made to the design according to the wishes of users of previously released semi-trailers. And we think this is correct, because if a company listens to its customers and does everything to make the use of its products more convenient, then the goal is not only to sell, to make a profit and then - even a flood. Naturally, customers would prefer not to buy a new semi-trailer, but to fix an existing one. But this is the market.
“In production models, individual design solutions and individual developments can be used, provided they have sufficient manufacturability, versatility and maintainability. Special equipment is often based on a serial model with non-standard options and the installation of special equipment. For example, the Langendorf company, part of the Wielton Group, mass-produces specialized equipment - panel carriers, glass carriers, emphasizing the individual character of each semi-trailer produced for a specific client,” says Egor Logvinov.
“In our experience, individual orders never become serial. The emergence of new models from a mass product, such as light semi-trailers, is caused by the desire of the manufacturing company to develop a new market niche, after consulting with key customers,” argues Albin Radke.
“Whether special options become standard depends on how many tasks they can be used for. And also on the frequency of needs. For the most part, special options remain special, since project loads are never exactly identical. But, undoubtedly, a certain number of non-standard options are becoming standard. The appearance of new models occurs much less frequently than the appearance of new options,” says Olesya Gommers, export sales manager at Nooteboom Trailers BV.
However, solutions that are actually new, at least for domestic manufacturers, are being brought to market.
“Among the breakthrough technologies that we managed to bring to life, a self-propelled trailer with hydraulic suspension deserves attention. Let us note that no one has ever implemented this solution in our country, and we can rightfully once again confirm the status of our company as innovative and aimed at long-term technical development,” says Alexey Filinsky.
Product advantages
The plant ensures the reliability and durability of Tverstroymash semi-trailers:
- careful selection of source materials (special steels, proven equipment components);
- modern metalworking methods (precision laser, plasma cutting, heat treatment, CNC milling);
- technological assembly discipline;
- painting in airless spray booths;
- use of galvanized and stainless steel parts;
- constant hardware monitoring (flaw detectors, test benches).
A simple order for the purchase of inexpensive domestic semi-trailers guarantees you excellent quality of the vehicle adapted to Russian roads.
Price crowds out quality
It is noteworthy that the seemingly popular instrument in the form of financial leasing in the semi-trailer segment is not in particular demand. Whether in 2019 or 2022, the number of transactions for this type of equipment is somewhere in the range of 8 thousand. And this is in six months.
That is, roughly speaking, half of the total market volume. Despite the fact that the weighted average cost is at the level of 2,545,972 rubles. That is, companies have working capital, and they purchase equipment without loans or leasing.
“At the end of 2022, there was uncertainty in the market, ambiguity - pent-up demand associated with an increase in recycling collection. The market for imported equipment generally reacts by increasing costs and decreasing consumption, which inevitably leads to an outflow of advanced technologies and manufacturers.
Interest in purchasing advanced imported goods is decreasing, and, as a result, there is an outflow of modern technology from the market. Now we again see negative market dynamics and a revision of the forecasts of manufacturers of imported equipment,” states Marketing Manager of Welton LLC (Wielton brand) Egor Logvinov.
By the way, with the introduction of a recycling fee in 2022, which was lobbied by the Rosspetsmash association, the share of imported semi-trailers began to decline. First of all, hitting the secondary market, where the price of a 10-year-old model was comparable to the cost of a new domestic one. In 2022, the share of foreign brands exceeded 60%, according to the lobbyists themselves. Over the past two years, the import of used semi-trailers from abroad has noticeably decreased, although in the regions of Russia the leaders in resale are still the same Schmitz Cargobull, Krone and Koegel.
In the market of new equipment, only Schmitz Cargobull holds the leadership, recently sharing first place with the Russian Tonar. Moreover, the sales volume of the German brand is slowly but surely declining.
“Unfortunately, the most in demand are cheap semi-trailers with low quality components. As of today, fleet owners do not often resort to comprehensive analysis and preparation for purchase, and therefore choose a product solely based on one criterion - price,” says Albin Radke, a representative of the Scheuerle Fahrzeugfabrik engineering plant (Germany).
A similar opinion is voiced by many of the semi-trailer manufacturers we interviewed. Moreover, Russian (but not all) and Belarusian factories for the most part use the same imported components.
Strenx or Hardox steel, Wabco brakes, Jost, SAF, BPW king pins, Gigant, SAF axles, Guangdong Fuwa Engineering Manufacturing feet, Domar fenders, Camozzi pneumatics. The list goes on. But the main thing is that it is collected in Russia, which means you can get a conclusion from the Ministry of Industry and Trade that, they say, we are not dependent on imports.
Structural elements affecting durability and trouble-free operation
The service life of a heavy-duty trailer depends primarily on the steels used in the manufacture of the frame and the strength of the side members. It is also important how the welding is carried out: welding in an argon environment is most reliable.
The heaviness of cargo, typical for oversized transportation, is aggravated by the weight of the platform itself. Therefore, in new designs of the Rapid Trailer type, special heavy-duty steels are used, the load on each of three, four - seven axles is accurately calculated, and the maximum possible load capacity is achieved with a minimum dead weight.
The choice of suspension is of particular importance. It is generally accepted that for difficult road and weather conditions, a mechanical suspension is best suited. However, the operating experience of our regular customers proves that it is much more convenient and efficient to drive semi-trailers equipped with air suspension. And especially when it comes to semi-trailers with high off-road clearance.
