The Core Difference
Dry van freight means the carrier provides both the tractor and the trailer. Power only means you already own or lease the trailer — you're just hiring the tractor, driver, and insurance to move it. That distinction changes which one actually fits your operation.
When Power Only Makes Sense
Power only is built for shippers who already run their own trailer fleet, most commonly distribution centers with drop-and-hook programs where trailers sit pre-loaded, waiting to be picked up on a schedule. It's also common for retailers moving trailers between their own facilities.
When Dry Van Makes More Sense
If you don't own trailers, need one-off or irregular shipments, or are shipping from a facility without drop-trailer infrastructure, dry van is almost always the simpler and more cost-effective choice — you're not managing trailer maintenance, positioning, or demurrage on equipment you own.
The Cost Comparison Isn't as Simple as It Looks
Power only rates are usually lower per mile since you're not paying for trailer use, but that ignores your own trailer's cost — maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and the capital tied up in owning a fleet. For most shippers without an existing trailer fleet, dry van's simplicity outweighs power only's marginal rate advantage.
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Get a Free Quote →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between power only and dry van freight?
Dry van means the carrier provides both tractor and trailer. Power only means you already own the trailer and are only hiring the tractor, driver, and insurance to move it.
When should I use power only instead of dry van?
Power only makes the most sense if you already operate your own trailer fleet, especially with drop-and-hook programs where trailers sit pre-loaded on a schedule.
Is power only cheaper than dry van?
The per-mile rate is often lower, but that doesn't account for the cost of owning and maintaining your own trailer fleet — for shippers without existing trailers, dry van is usually more cost-effective overall.
Do I need my own trailers to use power only service?
Yes. Power only assumes you already have a trailer available at the pickup location — the carrier is only providing the tractor and driver.
Does IZY Logistics offer both power only and dry van service?
Yes. We broker both dry van and power only freight nationwide, and can help determine which fits your specific shipping pattern.
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