why is it called a tractor trailer

A tractor trailer, also known as a semi-truck, is a large vehicle often used for cargo transportation. The name \"tractor trailer\" may make people wonder why a vehicle for transport is called after a farming machine. This article will explore the origin of the term and why it became the standard for such a vehicle.

Why a Tractor?

The term \"tractor\" referred to an engine-powered vehicle intended for pulling agricultural machinery. In the early 20th century, as motor vehicles became commonplace, farmers modified their tractors to transport goods instead of just pulling equipment. Farmers in the United States added a fifth wheel to the tractor, allowing it to pull a trailer behind it, much like a horse and carriage. This modification paved the way for the modern-day tractor trailer as we know it.

Why a Trailer?

The trailer part of tractor trailer comes from the hauling units that were attached to the backs of vehicles. These trailers were first used on railroads in the late 1800s, and it wasn't until the early 1900s that they were adapted for road use. Trailers started getting longer in the 1920s to aid cargo capacity, with some being 40 feet in length. This created the need for tractor units to haul them, and from this need the tractor trailer was born.

Standardization and Regulation

In the 1930s, as tractor trailers started to become the norm for long-distance hauling, regulations began to appear. The length, height and weight of the vehicles started to be standardized to optimize their use and safety. In 1939, the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHO) standardized trailer dimensions, and by 1956, all states had adopted this standard.\"

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term tractor trailer refers to an engine-powered vehicle designed to pull a trailer behind it. The tractor part comes from the modified farm equipment that first started hauling cargo, and the trailer part was adapted from rail haulage trailers. While regulations have standardized the size and weight of modern tractor trailers, the basic design has remained the same. Nowadays, tractor trailers are a common sight on highways across the world, moving cargo from one place to another efficiently and safely.