Ask an Expert: When Do I Need Flatbed Truck?

A flatbed truck is an essential tool for many industries, including construction, agriculture, and manufacturing. They are used to transport oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo that cannot fit in standard enclosed trailers. Flatbed trucks have an open bed with no sides or roof, allowing for easy loading and unloading of large and heavy equipment.

If you are wondering when you need a flatbed truck, here are some instances where they are essential.

Oversized cargo

If your cargo is too large to fit into a standard trailer, flatbed trucks are the best option for you. Oversized cargo includes items such as heavy machinery, construction equipment, and prefabricated homes. Flatbed trucks can accommodate cargo that is up to 48 feet long and 8 feet wide.

Heavy cargo

Flatbed trucks are designed to carry heavy cargo that is too heavy for standard trailers. The weight limit for flatbed trucks varies by state, but they can typically carry up to 48,000 pounds. Heavy cargo includes items such as steel beams, lumber, and concrete pipes.

Irregularly shaped cargo

If your cargo has an irregular shape that cannot fit into a standard trailer, a flatbed truck is the best option. Irregularly shaped cargo includes items such as construction equipment, wind turbine blades, and prefabricated homes. Flatbed trucks have no sides or roof, making it easy to load and unload such cargo.

Easy loading and unloading

Flatbed trucks are the best option for cargo that requires easy loading and unloading. This includes items such as pallets, crates, and machinery. With no sides or roof, it is easy to load and unload cargo from a flatbed truck using a forklift or a crane.

Specialized cargo

Flatbed trucks are also used for specialized cargo that requires a flat surface during transportation. This includes items such as boats, airplanes, and automobiles. Flatbed trucks have a flat surface, making it easy to transport such cargo.

Through our member companies, the ShipNorthAmerica Network provides a broad range of services in specialized freight movement. Visit our blog for more articles, news, and updates on the transportation industry.