Trucking Glossary

Learn what a brake drum is on a semi truck, how it works with air brakes, and what CDL drivers should inspect before every trip.

Learn what GVWR means, how Gross Vehicle Weight Rating works, why it matters, and how it affects CDL drivers, truck safety, and DOT compliance.

Learn what a drive axle is on a semi truck, how it works, why it’s important, and how it affects traction, hauling, and commercial driving.

Learn what a reefer trailer is, how it works, what it hauls, and why refrigerated freight is one of the most specialized areas of trucking.

Learn what a slack adjuster is, how it works, why it’s important, and what CDL drivers should inspect before every trip.

Learn what a trailer ABS light means, why it comes on, common causes, and what CDL drivers should do if it stays illuminated.

Learn what a walking floor trailer is, how its moving floor works, what it hauls, and why it’s a safer alternative to dump trailers for many loads.

Learn what a lowboy trailer is, what it hauls, how it differs from a flatbed or step deck, and why it’s used for heavy equipment transportation.

Learn what a flatbed trailer is, what it hauls, how loads are secured, and how flatbed trucking compares to dry van and reefer hauling.

Learn what GCWR means, how Gross Combination Weight Rating works, why it matters for CDL drivers, and how it differs from GVWR.

Learn what landing gear is on a semi trailer, how it works, why it matters, how to inspect it, and common mistakes CDL drivers should avoid.