Everything There is to Know Before Buying Your Next ...

 

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Choosing The Right Flatbed Trailer

[Read: &#;3 Types of Flatbed Semi-Trailers&#;]

A lot depends on what you want to get out of your trailer. Choosing the right flatbed trailer for you is going to depend on what you&#;re hauling, where you&#;re hauling, and how long you&#;re holding onto the trailer.

If you&#;re looking for something flashy, maybe an aluminum trailer is the way to go. But, if you want something to go to work, maybe you&#;re looking at a combo trailer. If you need something heavy-duty, an all-steel trailer could be right for you.

Aluminum Flatbeds

 

 

Aluminum flatbed trailers are typically your lightest option, lighter than steel or combination trailers, consisting entirely of aluminum &#; beam, side rails, and floors.

These trailers cost more than a combo and steel trailers, but on the upside, they do have a higher resale value.

Because aluminum deflects more than steel, these flatbeds are built with an arch (camber) in the trailer, which allows the beam to level as weight is added.

Combination Flatbeds

 

 

Combo flatbed semi-trailers are comprised of a steel beam, aluminum floor, and aluminum side rails. They provide the weight-savings of aluminum with the strength of the steel beam.

Combo trailers are less expensive than aluminum trailers and slighter more expensive than steel.

Steel Flatbeds

 

 

Steel trailers are built entirely of steel, including the beam, side rail, and suspension hangers, making them heavier than aluminum or combo.

They are a lower upfront investment; however, you won&#;t get as much on the resale value. It&#;s built to last and will be a good work trailer.

Pros:

• Steel trailers have a wood floor that provides nearly unlimited options for dunnage securement.
• Most durable out of the three. Since the entire trailer is steel fewer issues with corrosion due to dissimilar metals.
• Cheapest upfront option

Cons:

• The wood floor will eventually wear out and will need to be replaced
• Steel is more susceptible to rust, especially in the northeast.
• Lesser resale value

 

What Are Curtain Side Trailers Used For?

[Read &#;Conestoga vs Curtainside Trailers&#;]

 

A curtainside trailer, or curtain van, is a dry van and a flatbed trailer combined into one trailer. It loads like a flatbed but protects like a van with a ceiling, front wall, and rear doors. The sides are open to allow access for loading, and the rear swing doors will enable it to be dock-loaded, similar to a dry van.

Curtains hang from the roof on each side of the trailer, slide open, and close to provide an enclosed trailer. On the Curtain side trailer, the frame does not move, and therefore top loading is not possible.

 

 

Curtain side trailers are an excellent option for loads that require more protection and special handling or when it&#;s more efficient to load from the side. It&#;s also a good option if you have multiple stops to make.

• Curtain side trailers have a rear door like a dry van.
• Typically has a support system for the roof, side and center supports, and a rear door frame.
• Can be retrofitted to any flatbed but requires more modification to the flatbed trailer than a Conestoga kit.
• It&#;s a heavier setup than the Conestoga kit because the system includes a roof, frame system, front bulkhead, and rear door.
• It gives the option to side load or rear load the trailer.

 

 

5 Ways to Reduce the Weight of Your Flatbed Trailer

 

 

[Read &#;7 Ways to Maximize Your Payload on a Flatbed Semi&#;]

The way to increase your payload is to take weight off of your flatbed trailer. Below are some ways to do that.

1. Start with the right flatbed.
   &#;Most importantly, you want to start with the right flatbed. Lightweight options include the all-aluminum MAC and the AE, which at lbs. competes with all-aluminum flatbeds.
2. Aluminum cross members.
   Going with aluminum vs. steel cross members saves approximately 400 lbs.
3. Increase cross member spacing.
   Increasing the cross members spacing from 12&#; to 18&#; saves approximately 300-400 lbs.
4. Wheels and tires.
   Low Pro 22.5&#; tires on aluminum wheels are approximately 500 lbs. lighter than 11R 24.5&#; on steel wheels.
5. Closed tandem slider vs. spread axle.
   Spread axle weighs up to 500 lbs. less than a closed tandem sliding axle.

 

Why Are Some Semi Trailers Bowed?

 

 

[Read &#;Beam Ratings on a Flatbed Semi-Trailer&#;]

Aluminum trailers are lighter and less rigid than steel and flex a lot more than steel, so they&#;re built with an arch (Camber) to allow for flexing as the trailer flattens out when loaded heavily.

This arch might not be ideal for transporting long flat materials. Use dunnage racks to help fill that gap between the trailer&#;s arch and the product.

Increase Cross Member Spacing.

Space aluminum cross members closer together than steel cross members to support the additional weight from deflection, especially in applications where you&#;re rearing-loading with a forklift.

Combination and All-Steel Trailers.

 

* Photo of a combination trailer with steel beam

 

Combination and all steel trailers have less camber with the steel beam and, therefore, are flatter trailers.

Combination trailers typically include cross braces for additional support. The weight of the load is distributed through the cross braces and back to the steel beam itself.

 

 

How To Keep Screws from Popping and Waves in Your Flatbed Floor

Most flatbeds are not properly set up to back up to a dock with a forklift loading from the rear. Consider your cross member spacing and composition to help prevent those popping screws and waves in your floor.

Read [&#;5 Ways to Prevent Damage to Your Flatbed&#;]

Aluminum Crossmember Spacing

If you are rear loading or have concentrated loads, we recommend decreasing your cross members to a maximum spacing of 12&#; because aluminum cross members have more deflection than steel.

Steel Crossmember Spacing

Steel cross members are stronger, so you can get away with spacing your cross members at 16&#;; however, you might still want to consider 12&#; spacing.

Know What your Trailer is Capable of Hauling

It is important you need to understand how your trailer is spec&#;d and the load it&#;s equipped to handle.

A trailer with 24&#; cross member spacing, and no side cross braces, should not be rear-loaded, and be mindful of the load toward the outside of the rail because the trailer is not set up to support the weight.

 

Want more information on flatbed trailer with side wall? Feel free to contact us.

Load Securement Options for a Flatbed Semi-Trailer

Winches and Straps

 

 

Available in steel, galvanized steel, low profile for use with toolboxes and drop decks, winches are a very common way to secure a load on a flatbed.

They can be mounted on the driver side, curbside, or both sides of the trailer. It all depends on your philosophy. For the driver, it&#;s easier to work with straps on the driver&#;s side; however, it&#;s safer to adjust your load from the curbside if you&#;re pulled off the side of the road.

You might consider load securement points on both sides for taller loads to help prevent the load from shifting. Utility has a proprietary side rail with the winch tracks built into it, allowing winches to be placed on both sides of the trailer.

Spools and Pockets

 

 

Depending on the manufacturer, you may or may not be able to use a pocket to secure a load.

Spools working load limits (WLL) will vary depending on the manufacturer. Be sure to check with them to understand the pipe spools rating.

For example, wrapping a chain around one spool can have one rating, but the rating may change if you wrap it around two spools. The angle at which the chain comes off the spool will also determine the load limit rating on the spool.

Consult with the manufacturer for chain ratings. Also, check with the DOT for load securement regulations, tie-down requirements for heavy equipment, chain ratings, etc.

J-Hooks

 

 

J-Hooks (Flatbed J Plates) are an adjustable load securement system used with flat hook straps or chains.

The J Hook plates slide into the tracks located on both sides of the deck, and can be placed anywhere along the track.

• J Plates provide many options for placement throughout the length of the trailer.
• They are removable and can be stored on a standard bar rack or a toolbox.
• J Hook ratings can vary based on manufacturer.

[Read: &#;Pop Up Chain Adapters, D Rings, and Container Locks.&#;]

 

 

Step Deck vs. Lowboy, Which is Best?

 

 

Due to the lower rear deck height, step decks can be a great option for hauling equipment, tall loads, and other cargo.

Generally, any load under 10 ft. tall and 8 ft. wide can be loaded onto a step deck trailer. Small loaders, skid steers, small excavators, or bulldozers are examples of equipment you can potentially haul on a step deck.

We recommend going with a Removeable Gooseneck (RGN) or a Lowboy for larger or heavier equipment. A Lowboy can carry cargo up to 12 feet high and heavier loads.

Step decks are an excellent option for hauling midsized equipment and provide the versatility to haul other loads.

[Read more about: &#;Hauling Equipment on Step Decks and Flatbeds&#;]

 

 

What is The Best Bulkhead for My Flatbed Semi-Trailer?

 

 

What is a bulkhead on a flatbed?

Bulkheads are important to cargo control. They are affixed to the front end of a flatbed trailer to prevent forward movement of cargo and protect the driver carrying heavy loads.

What type of bulkhead is best for my flatbed?

There are two basic types of bulkheads for flatbed trailers, the wrap around and the flat.

Choosing the right bulkhead is important for both safety of the driver and the cargo. You want something durable enough to stand up to shifting cargo while not adding weight to your trailer.

Flat Bulkheads:

• A flat bulkhead is sufficient if you won&#;t be loading cargo that requires additional reinforcement on the sides.
• With the flat bulkhead, you&#;re not sacrificing any deck space, allowing pallets to be loaded up against the bulkhead.
• Flat bulkheads are available in both corrugated and flat metal.

Wrap Around Bulkheads:

• A wrap around bulkhead, or turnback bulkhead, has a return on either side which can provide extra support to help keep a load in place, and the turnback makes it easier to secure the load with side rail kits and panels.
• Wrap arounds are available with returns of 10&#; or up to 24&#; in length.
• Both bulkheads come DOT or Non-DOT rated.

[Read more about: &#;Bulkheads and Accessories&#;]

 

Flatbed Accessories

Toolboxes

Many configurations are available depending on your needs, including bolt-on kits, steerable lift axles, and front and rear configurations.

Mount toolboxes between the spread axle or anywhere along the flatbed on either side.

Dunnage Racks

 

 

What is a dunnage rack?

A dunnage rack provides storage on your semi-trailer flatbeds for the wood (or dunnage) while transporting unpalletized loads.

They&#;re mainly used on flatbed, drop-deck, and gooseneck trailers to free up space on your trailer bed to allow you to carry more cargo.

And, they come in many styles and configurations, including baskets styles with or without a floor, side mounts, cross trailer mounts, and can be designed to hold dunnage as needed.

[Read more about: &#;Lift Axles, Rear Axle Dumps, and Additional Accessories&#;]

 

 

In the logistics industry, you must rely on the tools to transport goods safely and efficiently. Flatbed trailers are an essential component in successful logistics, and different types of flatbeds allow for easy loading and unloading and transportation of items too long, tall or heavy for enclosed trailers. 

Familiarizing yourself with the various types of flatbed trailers has many benefits, including choosing the right option for your needs. With the right equipment, you can save money, increase transport efficiency and ensure safe delivery compliant with various transportation regulations. 

What Is a Flatbed Trailer?

A flatbed trailer is a type of trailer with a flat deck and no sides or roof. Flatbeds fall into a class of semi-trailers with a unique bed design, often used to transport bulky or heavy cargo. They&#;re particularly well suited to asymmetrical or wide loads that may not fit in a walled or covered trailer. 

There are many types of flatbeds, and they come in various weights and sizes to suit a range of applications. A flatbed&#;s structure simplifies cargo loading and unloading, as forklift trucks and other loading devices can work from any side of the vehicle. 

Common Flatbed Trailer Dimensions

Although different types of flatbed trailers come in various sizes and dimensions depending on the model and manufacturer, knowing the standard dimensions can help you decide whether a flatbed is the right equipment. Typical flatbed trailer dimensions include the following:

• Maximum cargo width: 102 inches. 
• Maximum cargo weight: 48,000 pounds.
• Maximum cargo height: 102 inches. 
• Maximum cargo length: Between 48 and 53 feet. 

Although the above dimensions refer to a typical flatbed, trailer dimensions vary. Always check the specifications with the manufacturer to ensure that any trailer you use meets your needs. 

The Benefits of Flatbed Trailers

Flatbeds are a popular choice for transporting heavy loads as they offer significant benefits, including the following:

• Loading and unloading: As flatbed trailers have no doors, roof or sides, they have a large surface area, making manual or mechanical loading and unloading easy. You can save time safely loading and securing your cargo with a streamlined experience. 
• Cleaning and maintenance: Flatbed trailers are characterized by their open decks, making them easier to maintain and clean than other truck options. 
• Storage space: Flatbeds offer considerable storage space, allowing drivers to make fewer trips when transporting cargo. 
• Delivery times: Reducing driving times leads to more efficient delivery turnaround. You can also expect cost savings due to reduced fuel consumption. 

8 Different Types of Flatbed Trailers

There are several types of flatbeds, each suited to a specific purpose. Understanding how the different flatbed types optimize your workflow is essential to choosing the right option for your application. Some common types of flatbeds include the following:

1. Standard Flatbed

A standard flatbed is the most common type, often used for hauling cargo such as machinery and lumber. This option is favored across the country for open-deck freight. It has no frills attached and provides several transportation options for many applications. 

Standard flatbeds have damps, a rack and stake pockets to secure a load during transit. 

2. Lowboy Trailer

Lowboy flatbeds have a lowered bed in front of the rear axles, allowing for the transportation of tall and heavy loads such as machinery and construction equipment. They commonly sit lower than standard trailers and have two drops in height to accommodate cargo too tall for standard trailers. 

Lowboys have lower ground clearance than standard trailers. They can have a well between the trailer and tractor axles to carry high cargo. 

3. Removable Gooseneck

As the name suggests, the removable gooseneck (RGN) has a removable gooseneck and a drop deck, making them versatile options for long and tall loads, such as construction equipment and machinery. RGNs are detachable &#; you can drop the trailer to the ground to form a ramp to drive heavy equipment onto the deck. 

In short, RGNs let you carry loads unsuited to standard trailers. You can attach a bulkhead to the front of the trailer to secure your load, and the unique design ensures quick loading and unloading of heavy cargo. The RGN is a popular option nationwide due to its versatility in transporting loads of various dimensions. 

4. Drop Deck

Drop deck trailers &#; also known as step decks &#; have a top and bottom deck, and are often used to transport cargo that&#;s too wide or tall for other flatbed options. It has a bed design featuring a deck that drops lower than standard flatbeds to accommodate elevated loads under height restrictions. 

The deck design also allows for easy loading and unloading of large and heavy cargo, making it a popular option for transporting equipment like tractors. 

5. Double Drop

Double drop trailers have a front and back deck and a well in the middle. The first deck is close to ground level, and the second is slightly higher, so you can load quickly with ramps. They let you load oversize freight and items up to 10 feet tall without worrying about low bridges and headroom restrictions. 

You may require cranes and other loading equipment and have a safety rack for transporting tall items. 

6. Extendable Drop Deck

This type of flatbed is similar to the drop deck in design but has an extendable deck to accommodate longer loads. These trailers are preferred for transporting loads too long to fit onto other flatbeds, as they can haul cargo such as pipes and wind turbine blades without overhang. However, large loads may still require a permit and escort vehicle, depending on the payload. 

7. Stretch Single-Drop Deck

These trailers feature a unique design, with a single drop deck and a long stretch between the cap and the rear. They have ramps for easy loading, and the deck aligns with the ground to improve accessibility when transporting heavy cargo. They&#;re ideal for heavy loads, low bridges and areas with height restrictions. 

Stretch single-drop deck trailers are a safe transportation option, as the bed design focuses on even distributing heavy loads across the trailer&#;s length. 

8. Side Kit

Side kits &#; also known as racks or top tarps &#; have a unique bed design installed over several panels. Unlike other types of flatbeds, they have sides to protect cargo from the elements while in transit. They are robust and easy to install and provide a fantastic option for hauling various types of freight in inclement weather. 

How to Choose the Right Type of Flatbed

With different flatbed trailer options with various applications, choosing the right choice for your needs is essential. Many industries rely on different types of flatbeds to ensure optimal performance, and many choose the type of flatbed they use based on the type of cargo they need to transport. Some common considerations when choosing a flatbed include the following:

• Load capacity: One of the most important considerations is how much weight and height you need to transport. Ensure you choose a flatbed that can handle the dimensions and weight of your cargo. 
• Budget: Your budget can be a deciding factor in the type of trailer you choose. Consider how much you can spend on a flatbed, and find one that suits your needs and budget. 
• Maintenance: Some trailer options require more maintenance than others. Consider how many trips your trailer will make and what that translates to regarding maintenance requirements. 

Whatever your hauling requirements, consider partnering with a professional flatbed hauling service to ensure the quality and efficiency of your flatbed freight logistics and find the right flatbed solution for your unique needs. 

Trust Nationwide Transport Services for Flexible Flatbed Transport Solutions

Choosing the correct type of flatbed is one small but vital part of flatbed trucking logistics. Nationwide Transport Services has the flexibility, skills and knowledge to help you find the right logistics solutions. When you partner with us, we assign you a load specialist to handle every aspect of your flatbed transport, including taking orders, route coordination and following up on the status of your freight. 

Nationwide Transport Services has ranked on Inc. &#;s fastest-growing U.S. privately held companies for the past four years, and we pride ourselves on or ability to find unique solutions for our clients. Reach out to us to learn more about flatbed freight logistics, or request a free quote and start your journey with us today. 

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