An articulated trailer is part of a heavy goods vehicle combination consisting of a powered tractor unit connected to a separate semi-trailer. The connection is made through a fifth wheel coupling and a kingpin mounted on the trailer.
The connection point allows the trailer to pivot relative to the tractor unit. This pivoting movement is known as articulation, which allows the vehicle combination to manoeuvre around corners while maintaining stability at speed.
In the UK and most of Europe, articulated vehicles are widely used for long-distance freight transport because the tractor unit and trailer can be separated and interchanged. This allows operators to swap trailers quickly and use a single tractor unit with multiple trailers.
How an articulated vehicle works
In an articulated combination, the tractor unit provides the engine, cab and driving axles, while the semi-trailer carries the cargo. Part of the trailer's weight is transferred through the kingpin into the tractor unit's fifth wheel, which improves traction and stability.
This arrangement differs from rigid trucks, where the body and chassis form a single fixed vehicle structure.
Typical articulated trailer configurations
- Curtainsider trailers
- Box van trailers
- Double deck trailers
- Lifting deck trailers
- Longer Semi-Trailers (LSTs)
Most articulated trailers in the UK are designed to operate at a standard trailer length of 13.6 metres, although Longer Semi-Trailers can extend this to 15.65 metres under specific regulatory conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are articulated trailers used instead of rigid trucks?
Articulated combinations allow operators to separate the tractor unit from the trailer. This makes loading more flexible, allows trailers to be swapped quickly and enables one tractor unit to serve multiple trailers.
What is the difference between an articulated trailer and a rigid truck?
An articulated vehicle consists of a tractor unit connected to a detachable semi-trailer. A rigid truck has the cab and load body built onto the same chassis and cannot be separated.
How long is a typical articulated trailer?
The most common trailer length in the UK is 13.6 metres. Some Longer Semi-Trailers can extend to 15.65 metres under specific regulatory authorisation.
Why are articulated trucks called 'artics'?
In UK road transport, the term 'artic' is informal shorthand for an articulated vehicle. It refers to the pivoting articulation joint between the tractor unit and semi-trailer.
