When it comes to selecting the best wood for truck and trailer flooring, the two most popular options are Asian Apitong (Keruing) and Brazilian Apitong (Angelim Pedra). Both types of wood have been trusted for decades due to their strength, durability, and suitability for heavy-duty applications. I wanted to take a moment to explore the differences and similarities between these two woods, helping you make an informed decision for your truck or trailer flooring needs. Spoiler alert, they both are great!
What is Apitong?
Asian Apitong, also known as Keruing, has been the traditional wood of choice for flatbed truck and trailer flooring for decades. This hardwood is renowned for its strength and durability, making it an ideal material for withstanding heavy use. Apitong is typically used in solid, plank flooring, most commonly in a shiplap form. The standard thickness ranges from 1-1/8” to 1-3/8”, with widths typically 5” or 7”. This solid shiplap flooring is particularly popular in lightweight flatbed trailers where weight, durability, strength, and cost are major concerns for manufacturers.
Where is Apitong Harvested?
Apitong is typically harvested in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. These regions provide the ideal tropical climate and forest resources for Apitong trees to thrive. The wood is imported into the United States both as rough material and as a finished product, making it a versatile and widely available option for truck and trailer manufacturers.
Brazilian Apitong (Angelim Pedra)
Angelim Pedra is a newer entrant to the US market, imported from Brazil. Although it is relatively new to North America, it has been used extensively in South America for truck and trailer flooring for decades. Since its introduction to the US in the 1990s, Angelim Pedra has seen a significant increase in market share. This growth was particularly notable during the Asian trade wars a few years back and the COVID-19 pandemic. Both disrupted the supply of Apitong, leading manufacturers and dealers to seek alternative materials. Angelim Pedra has proven to be an excellent substitute, thanks to its similar properties and reliable performance.
Sizes and Uses
For heavy-duty trailers, such as drop deck trailers, thicker and wider boards are typically used. Sizes range from 1-1/2” (6/4) in thickness, and widths can be 6”, 8”, 10”, or even 12”. Rough sawn lumber is often preferred for these applications, as it provides enough grip for heavy equipment like skidders and bulldozers to drive onto the flatbed without slipping.
Lengths and Customization
The length of the boards is crucial for solid hardwood truck flooring. Both Apitong and Angelim typically average 12-20’ in length. To ensure stability, splices must occur on cross members, which are usually spaced 12” to 24” center to center. ABSWood.com offers custom finger jointing of solid planks up to 53’ in length, which are stress-rated for military use and exceed TTMA load ratings. This customization ensures that the flooring meets specific needs and provides the necessary durability for heavy-duty applications.
Why Choose Angelim Pedra?
Angelim Pedra is widely available in the Amazon region. The trees are very tall, making it easier to obtain longer and fixed lengths compared to other species. The wood is dense, durable, and rot resistant, making it a reliable choice for truck and trailer flooring.
Since the Asian trade wars, there has been a significant increase in the importation of Angelim Pedra into the US market. The trade wars disrupted the supply of Apitong, and the subsequent supply chain issues during the pandemic further accelerated the adoption of Angelim Pedra in the US. This wood has found a home in US truck and trailer fleets, proving to be a dependable alternative to Apitong.
Environmental Considerations
When comparing Apitong and Angelim Pedra, an item to consider is environmental factors. Southeast Asia, where Apitong is harvested, generally has more stable environmental policies compared to Brazil. There is less over-harvesting and less pressure from alternative agricultural uses in these regions, leading to more sustainable forestry practices. However, it is important to note that responsible logging practices can be found in both regions, and choosing suppliers who adhere to sustainable practices is crucial.
Decisions Decisions, which do I choose?
Should you use Apitong or Angelim Pedra for your truck or trailer? Both are excellent choices, each with its unique advantages. At ABS Wood, we have been selling both for over a decade without any complaints. Our customers have found both types of wood to be equally effective and reliable. The deciding factor may ultimately come down to availability – sometimes Apitong is more accessible, and other times Angelim Pedra is more readily available. Both woods will work effectively for your application, providing the strength, durability, and longevity needed for truck and trailer flooring.
For more information or to place an order, visit our website at www.abswood.com. We are committed to helping you find the best wood for your needs and ensuring your satisfaction with our products.