For what distance are tractor-trailer trains particularly effective?

Tractor-trailer trains are particularly effective at transporting goods over moderate distances, typically around 1 mile. This distance strikes a balance between operational efficiency and the need for maneuverability. At this range, the combination of the tractor's power and the trailer's large capacity allows for effective movement of goods, benefiting from lower fuel consumption and reduced transit times compared to shorter distances.

While moving less than 1 mile might seem efficient, it often underutilizes the load capacity of the trailer and can lead to unnecessary handling and logistics. Distances greater than 1 mile, such as 5 miles or 10 miles, can still see the effectiveness of tractor-trailer trains, but they also introduce challenges related to traffic management, turning radius, and load distribution. Thus, 1 mile is generally considered the optimal distance for achieving peak operational efficiency with tractor-trailer trains.