Power Only Freight: The Flexible Freight Solution for Shippers
In the fast-moving world of logistics, flexibility can make or break a supply chain. That’s where power only freight comes into play. For shippers facing tight schedules, seasonal surges, or the need to reposition trailers across the country, this shipping method offers a smart, scalable, and cost-effective solution.
What is Power Only Freight?
Power only freight is a trucking service where the carrier supplies only the power unit (the truck) to haul a trailer. The trailer is owned or provided by the shipper or another third party. The carrier hooks up to the trailer—often preloaded—and transports it to its destination.
This straightforward model delivers key advantages for both shippers and logistics providers by enabling better control over equipment and schedules.
Common Equipment Used
Though the concept is simple, Power onlys accommodate a wide variety of trailer types. Here are some common setups:
1. Dry Van Trailers
These enclosed trailers are often preloaded with general freight. Power Only trucking is ideal when shippers want to move freight without waiting on dedicated carriers.
2. Refrigerated (Reefer) Trailers
Temperature-sensitive goods require controlled environments. Shippers can lease or own reefer trailers and use power only services for transportation while retaining full control of equipment.
3. Flatbeds & Step Decks
For hauling construction materials, machinery, or over-dimensional cargo, flatbeds and step decks are common. Shippers often handle permits and trailer ownership while contracting a driver for these services.
4. Tanker Trailers
Industries dealing with fuel, chemicals, or food-grade liquids use their own tanker trailers due to specific regulations. This enables them to move loads without investing in tractors.
5. Intermodal Chassis
Essential in port and rail drayage, chassis are used to carry containers. Carriers pick up preloaded containers and handle regional or long-haul moves.
Why Shippers Choose Power Only Freight
Shippers choose power only freight for a variety of operational and strategic reasons:
Flexibility and Scalability
When freight volumes spike, it’s faster to scale up tractors than to purchase more trailers. Power only freight provides agility during peak seasons and market shifts.
Trailer Pooling
Large-scale shippers often use trailer pools at distribution centers. Preloading trailers allows for efficient scheduling and minimal driver downtime.
Cost Efficiency
By supplying their own trailers, shippers reduce idle time and increase control over asset utilization. Power only freight can help cut costs and improve warehouse flow.
Specialized Equipment Control
Industries using unique trailers—like double drop decks or food-grade tanks—retain equipment ownership but use power only services to scale transport without investing in power units.
Nationwide Trailer Repositioning
From rental trailer companies to national shippers, it’s a reliable way to relocate trailers across regions—loaded or empty.
Is Power Only Freight Right for You?
Whether you’re a large shipper managing your own trailer fleet or a 3PL looking to reduce dwell time, this method gives you more control and flexibility in how you move goods.
It’s ideal when time, equipment control, and efficiency are your top priorities. With the ability to preload trailers during regular business hours and schedule after-hours pickups, power only freight is a game-changer for shippers seeking streamlined operations.
Partner with Headwall Logistics
Looking to move trailers across the country or build a scalable strategy? Headwall Logistics is your trusted logistics partner. We help shippers plan, scale, and execute freight solutions with confidence.
Contact Us for a Power Only Freight Quote
Email: quotes@headwalllogistics.com
Phone: (719) 789-1370