Alaska’s huge size, difficult climate, and rugged terrain make truck transportation a critical industry. Double tractor-trailers (tractors pulling two trailers) are less common than in the Lower 48. Still, they are used in several key sectors to maximize freight efficiency and reduce fuel costs.
In logistics, double trailers help intermodal and less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers improve their efficiency. UPS and FedEx use double-pup trailers in Alaska as elsewhere. In the state’s key energy sector, some companies employ double tankers to haul crude oil, fuel, or chemicals. Finally, the state depends on food shipments from the Lower 48. Companies like Costco and Carrs-Safeway receive shipments in double-trailer grocery trucks.
Triple trailers are not legally allowed in Alaska.
If you want to pull doubles or triples, you must obtain a Double/Triple (T) endorsement on your Class A CDL. For this endorsement (assuming you are already qualified to drive combination vehicles), you must pass the Double/Triple knowledge test (but no additional skills test). This test covers such topics as safe handling, air brakes, coupling and uncoupling, pre-trip inspections, rollovers, and trailer sway.