What is a Bobtail Truck?

Today's trucking fleets have various vehicle types, each designed to meet different needs. One unique type of heavy truck is the bobtail truck, a semi-truck without an attached trailer. In this blog post, we will review the definition of bobtail trucks, where that name comes from, the types of bobtail trucks, common risks of bobtail trucking and much more. 

What is a bobtail truck?

The term “bobtail truck” refers to a semi-truck that operates without a trailer attached. This bobtailing configuration usually occurs when a truck driver drops off a trailer and needs to relocate their vehicle to either park at a terminal or pick up a new trailer. While bobtailing is common in the trucking and logistics industry, it comes with unique risks and challenges for drivers and fleet managers.

Where does the term "bobtail truck" come from?

The term "bobtail" comes from the visual similarity between a semi-truck without a trailer and a “bobtail” cat with a shortened tail, also known as a bobcat. Just as these animals have shorter tails, a semi-truck without a trailer has a shorter appearance. This metaphor eventually became the industry term for tractor-trucks traveling without attached cargo.

Types of bobtail trucks

There are three main types of bobtail trucks: 

1. Semi-truck
   The most common form of bobtail trucking involves a standard semi-truck or tractor unit operating without a trailer. Once these tractor-trucks are ready to connect to a trailer full of cargo, the driver attaches the trailer with a fifth-wheel hitch.
2. Small bobtail trucks
   Often used for delivery services, these trucks are smaller and have all their axles connected to the same chassis. This lets these trucks operate independently without a trailer. They are common in short-haul or local deliveries of lighter loads like eggs or bakery products.
3. Straight propane bobtail trucks
   These trucks are created by fitting a specially designed tank onto the rear bed of a small truck. Common in industries such as propane delivery, these trucks function as a single unit to safely transport liquid fuel, such as propane or gas.

Is bobtailing dangerous?

Bobtailing adds new risks for semi-truck drivers, making it more dangerous than driving a loaded truck due to the vehicle’s altered handling characteristics. Here are the primary dangers of bobtailing:

• Reduced stability: Without a trailer, the center of gravity on a truck shifts to the front of the vehicle. This makes a bobtailing truck less stable on turns or in adverse weather compared to a truck with a trailer attached.
• Braking issues: Truck brakes are located on the rear wheels to stop both the tractor and trailer together. Because bobtail trucks have no trailer, the reduced weight on the back wheels reduces braking power and makes stopping less predictable.
• Handling difficulties: Bobtail trucks are more difficult to steer because the rear wheels produce less friction. This increases the risk of skidding or overturning, especially when driving on wet or icy roads.
• Driver fatigue: Drivers must constantly adjust to bobtail trucks' more sensitive handling and faster acceleration. This can lead to fatigue over long distances.

Why do truckers avoid bobtailing?

While bobtailing is a common practice for trucking fleets, most drivers try to avoid it unless it’s absolutely necessary. The main reason to help reduce bobtailing is that its handling and braking challenges increase the risk to both the driver and the truck. This greater danger also means bobtailing comes with higher insurance costs, as the increased risks demand additional coverage.

In addition to these risks, truckers prefer to avoid bobtailing because driving without a trailer means the truck is not generating revenue from hauling cargo. At the same time, a bobtailing trip will consume fuel and incur wear and tear on a semi-truck’s brakes and tires. This means bobtailing is less profitable while also being more risky. 

How much is bobtail insurance?

Bobtail insurance is designed to cover a truck when it is operating without a trailer and is a common policy for trucking fleets. Bobtail insurance typically costs between $30 and $40 USD per month, or $360 to $480 per year. Several factors can influence the cost, including a driver’s record, fleet size, location where the truck operates, and driving distance.

Fleet managers can lower their bobtail insurance premiums in several ways. First, many insurers will offer discounts when fleets pay annually instead of monthly. Secondly, fleet managers can shop around and compare different providers to get the most competitive pricing. Finally, hiring drivers with clean driving records will minimize risk and lead to lower insurance costs.

FAQs about bobtailing

How can I reduce driving risk while bobtailing?

Maintaining a safe following distance is critical when bobtailing due to the increased stopping distance and reduced traction. Drivers should increase their usual following distance when driving without a trailer, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.

What are some safer alternatives to bobtailing?

One common alternative to bobtailing is known as “deadheading,” which means driving with an empty trailer attached. This is preferable to bobtailing because it provides more stability in braking and handling. Another way to avoid bobtailing is to use a load matching service. Load matching services help drivers find backhauls or partial loads to avoid driving without a trailer. This minimizes bobtail miles to help fleet operators increase profitability and reduce risk.