5 Common Types of Flatbed Trailers

Tags: Anatomy of a Trailer, Flatbed

Flatbed trailers are the most common and versatile style trailers on the road. This is mainly because they can be used for transferring a variety of goods. There are all different types of flatbed trailers to choose from, but which type makes sense for your fleet? Understanding their different characteristics will ultimately help you make the most informed decision on which one will serve your clients best.

We’ll highlight all the different types of flatbed trailers you might come across and which one is right for you.

What is a Flatbed Trailer?

A flatbed trailer is a trailer that has no walls and is used to carry general freight.

There are many flatbed trailer types, each designed to serve a specific need. A flatbed trailer’s shape allows for longer, taller, and bulkier loads to be hauled over highways but for some pieces of equipment you still need to turn to specialized trailers like schnables. Flatbeds can be found in various sizes, weights, and capacities depending on who manufactured them and the type of freight being carried.

Typical Flatbed Trailer Dimensions

Typical flatbed trailer sizes and dimensions vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer, but most standard flatbed types have the following dimensions:

It’s important to note that these are general flatbed trailer dimensions and may vary depending on the specific trailer and manufacturer. It’s always best to check the specifications from the manufacturer or the seller for the exact flatbed trailer sizes of a trailer.

5 of Common Types of Flatbed Trailers and What They’re Used For

With all the types of flatbeds out there, you need to get the one that’ll get the job done right. While each type has its own purpose, they all share one thing in common: a flat surface where goods can be secured and contained while traveling.

Below you’ll find a description of the five most common types of flatbed trailers on the market and how they can be used. Each of these types of flatbed semi-trailers for sale are used for a specific job, which is important to know when deciding which option will work best for your needs.

1. Standard Flatbed Trailer

This is the most common type of flatbed trailer, typically used for hauling cargo such as lumber, steel, and machinery. It has a flat deck with no sides or roof and is typically between 48 and 53 feet long. It can be loaded from any side making for an ideal asset amongst flatbed types.

2. Lowboy Trailer

Lowboys, which have a lowered bed in front of the rear axles, allow for the transportation of taller and heavier loads, such as construction equipment and machinery. Typically, these trailers have a flat deck that is up to 30 feet long.

3. Removable Gooseneck Trailer (RGN)

This type of flatbed trailer has a removable gooseneck, which allows for the front of the trailer to be lowered to the ground, making it easier to load and unload heavy equipment. RGN trailer decks usually do not exceed 30 feet.

4. Drop Deck

These are the type of flatbed trailers that have a top and bottom deck. They are intended to transport cargo that cannot be hauled on a regular flatbed (often because of height restrictions). They are mainly used to haul tall equipment like tractors and are generally around 37 feet long.

5. Extendable Drop Deck

This type of flatbed trailer has an extendable deck, which can be lengthened to accommodate longer loads. It is commonly used for hauling long items such as pipes, steel beams, and wind turbine blades. Drop decks are about 48 to 80 feet in length.

Which Type of Flatbed Trailer is Right for Me?

Choosing the right type of flatbed trailer for your needs depends on several factors, including:

1. Weight and size of cargo
2. Distance of haul
3. Legal restrictions

A variety of industries rely on certain flatbed types in order to transport small and large items. While it may be possible to haul these items using other modes of transportation, people often choose flatbeds based on the large cargo capacity they can provide. The ability to carry a lot of weight makes flatbeds less labor-intensive and high value for a fleet than many other methods of hauling.

Source a Flatbed Trailer from Us

Hale Trailer has the experience to help you find various types of flatbed trailers. We have used flatbeds for sale and other options for rent as well. We will match you with the right flatbed types for your transport.

We have worked hard to maintain a sizeable inventory to make sure you get exactly what you’re looking for in the next edition to your fleet. We have a line-up of trailers ready for the road today. Our selection can be found online or stop by one of our locations to learn more about how we can help you.