How many bows are needed for a 20' dry van?

For a 20-foot dry van, the generally accepted practice is to use 9 bows to ensure proper support and structural integrity. Bows are vertical supports that help distribute the load evenly and maintain the shape of the dry van’s structure.

Using 9 bows allows for optimal spacing and support, helping to prevent issues like sagging or bending, which can occur if there are too few bows. This configuration also takes into account the average load distribution across the van, ensuring that it can accommodate various types of cargo safely.

While fewer bows might seem sufficient at first glance, they could lead to problems that compromise the van's functionality and safety. Therefore, the specific requirement of 9 bows is based on established industry practices for maintaining the effective operation of a 20-foot dry van.