Skeleton vs Gooseneck Semi-Trailers: Key Differences

Skeleton semi-trailers and gooseneck semi-trailers are common types of road transport vehicles, specifically designed for container transportation. Because these two trailer types have similar structures, they are often confused. So, how can we differentiate skeleton semi-trailers from gooseneck semi-trailers? Let’s explore and compare them in detail with THACO INDUSTRIES in the article below.

What is a Semi-Trailer?

Semi-trailers are road transport vehicles with a special structure: the front is connected to the tractor head while the rear is supported by independent load-bearing wheels.

What is a Skeleton Semi-Trailer?

The skeleton semi-trailer, also called a skeletal semi-trailer, has a frame structure joined together, designed to carry dry containers ranging in size from 20 to 48 feet.

What is a Gooseneck Semi-Trailer?

The gooseneck semi-trailer has a frame shaped like a goose’s neck, designed to transport refrigerated containers between 40 and 48 feet in size.

Comparison of Skeleton vs. Gooseneck Semi-Trailers

Popular Types of Skeleton Semi-Trailers

20-Foot Skeleton Semi-Trailer

This skeleton trailer is designed for transporting 20-foot (6.1m) dry containers with a maximum load capacity of over 30 tons.

40-Foot Skeleton Semi-Trailer

The most common type, specialized for bulky goods, with a length of 40 feet (12.19m) and a maximum load of over 33 tons. It can carry dry containers from 10 to 40 feet.

45-Foot Skeleton Semi-Trailer

Specialized for oversized cargo, with a length of 45 feet (13.71m), maximum load over 33 tons, and capable of transporting dry containers from 10 to 40 feet.

Extendable Skeleton Semi-Trailer

Equipped with an extendable rear frame, allowing length adjustment. Common configurations: 20/40 feet, 40/45 feet, and 20/40/45 feet.

Low-Bed Skeleton Semi-Trailer

Designed with a lower deck, specialized for transporting heavy machinery and construction equipment (excavators, bulldozers, rollers, concrete mixers) as well as agricultural machinery (tractors, harvesters, combines). Typically available in 45- and 48-foot sizes.

Popular Types of Gooseneck Semi-Trailers

40-Foot Gooseneck Semi-Trailer

Measures 40 feet (12.19m), with a maximum load over 34 tons, designed exclusively for 40-foot refrigerated containers.

45-Foot Gooseneck Semi-Trailer

The most common type, 45 feet (13.71m) long, maximum load up to 39 tons, exclusively for 45-foot refrigerated containers.

48-Foot Gooseneck Semi-Trailer

Measures 48 feet (14.63m), maximum load up to 39 tons, exclusively for 48-foot refrigerated containers.

Outstanding Advantages of THACO Trailers Skeleton and Gooseneck Semi-Trailers

• Main beam made of Q345B/ASTM A572 Grade 50 steel with yield strength of 345 MPa and tensile strength of 470–630 MPa, providing high durability and double load-bearing capacity.
• FUWA suspension system with straight bolster and leaf spring sets (1-leaf or 3-leaf) ensures stable vehicle performance.
• Braking system includes spring brake priority valves, control support valves, master air valves, and ABS, ensuring high responsiveness, quick braking response and maximum safety.
• Electrical system with PSI and GPS connectors, integrated wiring, and anti-theft LED lighting.
• Frame surface treated with ED coating and powder coating for durability, gloss, and extended lifespan.
• Long-term manufacturer warranty: THACO Trailers products are covered from 5 to 10 years depending on parts (axle components: 5 years, paint: 7 years, electrical system: 10 years).

THACO Trailers (a member of THACO INDUSTRIES) – Vietnam’s Leading Semi-Trailer Brand

THACO Trailers is proud to be Vietnam’s leading semi-trailer brand. With outstanding production capacity, a streamlined closed-loop manufacturing process, and modern production lines including: slitting lines, fiber laser cutting machines, CNC press brakes, automated welding equipment, shot blasting booth, ED coating lines, and automatic powder coating line… the company achieves a capacity of 30,000 products per year. Each product undergoes strict quality control from input to output, meeting international quality management standards ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, as well as North American transport standards such as DOT, AAR, ANSI, TOFC, F(C)MVSS, SAE, and TTMA, , and European and Australian markets standards including ADR, ECE, COC, EC, REACH, and RoHS.

In addition, the R&D center has a total investment of USD 50 million, covering an area of 20,000 m² with more than 1,000 experienced and highly skilled experts and engineers. The center is always ready to research and develop customized products to meet specific customer needs. THACO Trailers not only leads the domestic semi-trailer market but also exports to demanding international markets such as the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and Philippines.

For consultation, support, or to purchase high-quality semi-trailers, please contact our hotline: 0348620063.