Find A Suitable Flatbed Trailer For Your Load
Flatbed trucking plays a vital role in the transportation industry, offering a versatile solution for moving a diverse range of cargo that defies the confines of standard enclosed trailers. With their open design and sturdy construction, flatbed trucks are the go-to choice for hauling oversized, heavy, and irregularly shaped items that require careful handling and secure transportation. From construction machinery to building materials, vehicles to industrial equipment, flatbeds provide the flexibility needed to tackle diverse logistical challenges. We offer premium Flatbed Trucking services to clients looking for reliable flatbed shipping services.
What Are The Dimensions Of Flatbed Trailers?
Flatbed trucks are designed with an open platform, which makes them ideal for transporting cargo that doesn’t fit into standard enclosed trailers. The standard lengths of flatbed trailers are 48 feet and 53 feet, although other lengths are also available. The width of a typical flatbed trailer is around 8.5 feet. Flatbeds don’t have a fixed height limit unlike enclosed trailers due to their open design. Instead, the cargo’s height determines the load’s overall height.
Weight Limits Of Flatbed Trailers
The weight capacity of flatbed trucks depends on several factors, including the number of axles the trailer has and the distribution of weight across those axles. In the United States, federal regulations set a maximum gross vehicle weight limit for commercial vehicles. Generally, a flatbed truck can carry around 48,000 to 53,000 pounds of cargo (22,000 to 24,000 kilograms), but this can vary based on local regulations and the specific configuration of the truck and trailer. Overweight or unbalanced loads can lead to safety hazards and legal issues.
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Types of Equipment and Cargo Shipped on Flatbed Trailers
Flatbed trucks are highly versatile and are used to transport a wide range of equipment and cargo due to their open design. Some common examples include:
- Construction Machinery: Bulldozers, Excavators, Loaders, Cranes, etc.
Construction machinery is an essential part of any construction project, and transporting these heavy and specialized pieces of equipment can be challenging. Flatbed trucks are often used to transport bulldozers, excavators, loaders, cranes, and other construction machinery. These machines are typically large and heavy, and their unique shapes and sizes make them well-suited for transportation on flatbeds. Proper securing and balancing of the machinery are crucial to ensure safe transport and prevent damage during transit.
- Building Materials: Lumber, Steel Beams, Concrete Pipes, Roofing Materials, etc.
Building materials such as lumber, steel beams, concrete pipes, and roofing materials are often too large or long to fit within the confines of enclosed trailers. Flatbed trucks provide an excellent solution for transporting these materials. The open platform of flatbeds allows for easy loading and unloading of various building supplies, making them a preferred choice for construction projects of all sizes.
- Industrial Equipment: Large Machinery, Generators, Industrial Tanks, etc.
Industrial equipment encompasses a wide range of machinery used in manufacturing, energy production, and other industries. This equipment can include large machines, generators, compressors, industrial tanks, and more. Transporting such heavy and bulky equipment often requires the use of flatbed trucks due to their capacity and versatility.
- Oversized Cargo
These are items that are too large or irregularly shaped to fit in enclosed trailers. Oversized cargo refers to items that exceed the dimensions of standard trailers or have irregular shapes that make them unsuitable for enclosed transport. This could include machinery parts, large sculptures, prefabricated structures, and more. Flatbed trucks are the go-to choice for transporting such cargo, as they offer the flexibility to accommodate items of varying sizes and shapes.
- Vehicles
Cars, trucks, vans, and other vehicles that need to be transported. Flatbed trucks are commonly used to transport vehicles when traditional towing is not possible or when multiple vehicles need to be moved at once. This includes cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and other vehicles. The open design of flatbeds allows for easy loading and unloading of vehicles, making them a convenient option for auto transportation.
- Farm Equipment
Tractors, plows, and other agricultural machinery. Agricultural machinery like tractors, plows, combine harvesters, and other farming equipment can be quite large and heavy. Flatbed trucks are often used to transport these pieces of equipment between farms, dealerships, or agricultural shows.
- Large Containers: Shipping Containers, Oversized Crates, etc.
Flatbed trucks are sometimes used to transport large containers, such as shipping containers, oversized crates, and other bulky items. While specialized container transport trailers exist, flatbeds can serve this purpose when needed.
- Heavy Equipment: Generators, Transformers, Compressors, and Other Heavy Machinery
Heavy equipment like generators, transformers, compressors, and other industrial machinery can be too heavy for standard enclosed trailers. Flatbed trucks provide the strength and flexibility required to transport these hefty items.
Transport Your Load On The Right Trailer With Us
Double Drop Deck Trailer
Max Dimensions: 29FT Length, 8.5FT Width, and 11.5FT Height
Max Weight: 45,000LBS
Step Deck Trailer
Max Dimensions: 53FT Length, 8.5FT Width, and 11.5FT Height
Max Weight: 48,000LBS
Removable Gooseneck Trailer (RGN)
Max Dimensions: 53FT Length, 8.5FT Width, and 11.6FT Height
Max Weight: 150,000LBS
Flatbed Trailer
Max Dimensions: 53FT Length, 8.5FT Width, and 8.5FT Height
Max Weight: 48,000LBS
Loading and Securing Cargo On Flatbed Trailers
Proper loading and securing of cargo on flatbed trucks are crucial for safety during transportation. The following steps are typically followed:
- Balancing: Distribute the weight of the cargo evenly across the trailer to prevent excessive stress on certain areas.
- Securing: Use chains, straps, binders, and other tie-down equipment to secure the cargo. The number and type of tie-downs required depend on the weight and nature of the cargo.
- Blocking and Bracing: Use blocks and braces to prevent cargo from shifting during transit. This is especially important for irregularly shaped or heavy items.
- Protective Measures: Use appropriate protective materials to prevent damage to both the cargo and the trailer.
- Compliance: Follow local, state, and federal regulations for securing cargo. These regulations may specify the number and strength of tie-downs required based on the weight of the cargo.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect the tie-downs during transit to ensure they remain secure.
Flatbed trucking requires careful planning, expertise, and adherence to safety regulations to ensure that cargo reaches its destination safely and without damage. Working with experienced carriers and logistics professionals is essential to successful flatbed transportation.
Why Choose Our Flatbed Trailer Transport Services?
In the ever-evolving landscape of logistics and transportation, flatbed trucking remains indispensable. The flexibility, strength, and adaptability of flatbed trucks make them a crucial asset for businesses and industries that deal with unconventional cargo. Whether it’s construction machinery, building materials, vehicles, or heavy equipment, flatbeds are the workhorses that ensure these valuable assets reach their destinations safely and efficiently. As you navigate the complexities of cargo transportation, remember the significance of proper planning and secure loading techniques. To make the most of flatbed trucking and ensure the safe transit of your valuable cargo, collaborate with experienced carriers and logistics professionals who understand the nuances of different cargo types and the regulations that govern their transport. From the construction site to the factory floor, from the farm to the city streets, we are the bridge that connects industries and keeps the world moving forward. Embrace the power of flatbed transportation and embark on a journey that balances innovation, safety, and reliability. Your cargo’s destination awaits – let us pave the way.
Our Recent Shipments
Transporting an Excavator
Origin: Miami
Destination: New York
Broker Name: Bob
Transporting an Excavator
Origin: Miami
Destination: New York
Broker Name: Bob
Transporting an Excavator
Origin: Miami
Destination: New York
Broker Name: Bob
Free Resources
Wide Load Shipping has a vast library of resources and guides to educate on all things oversize load and super load transport.
Route Surveys
Wide Load Shipping has a team to provide route surveys, ensuring your oversize load is transported safely.
Oversize Load Regulations by State
Wide Load Shipping has over twelve years of experience, and we’ve listed the regulations you need to know for transporting oversize loads in each state.
Dedicated Transport Agent
At Wide Load Shipping you work with a dedicated transport agent who will guide you through every step of the shipping process.
All-Inclusive Shipping Quotes
Wide Load Shipping provides you with a quote that includes everything you need, whether it be loading assistance, pilot cars, or other amenities for transport. No hidden fees!
Every Step Handled For You
Wide Load Shipping simplifies oversize load transport. We handle every aspect of transport, from the initial dispatch to final delivery. Find out more now!
Our Process
1
Get Started
Your dedicated transport agent provides you with an all-inclusive quote tailored to fit your needs. We pull the permits, handle route surveys, find the best driver, and more.
2
Driver Dispatch
Once everything is in place, a driver is dispatched to pick up your heavy equipment. Your equipment is safely loaded and secured before setting off.
3
24/7 Dedicated Support
Your dedicated agent is available throughout the entire journey to answer any questions you may have. Your oversize load is delivered safely and on time. Get your transport quote now!