What is a "Bobtail" in yard management terminology?

In yard management terminology, a "Bobtail" refers to a tractor that arrives or departs without a trailer. This concept is significant in logistics and transportation because it impacts how vehicles are managed and coordinated within a yard. When a tractor is operating in a bobtail fashion, it can influence scheduling, parking arrangements, and the overall flow of operations in the yard. Understanding what constitutes a bobtail helps yard marshals effectively manage vehicle movements and ensure that different types of vehicles are accounted for as they come and go, improving overall efficiency. This term is particularly relevant in scenarios where tractors might need to be repositioned for various tasks without trailers in tow, adding to the operational flexibility in yard management.