What Is a Flatbed Trailer? Your Complete Guide to Flatbeds

A flatbed trailer is an open-deck trailer with no sides or roof, designed to transport large, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo. Unlike enclosed trailers, flatbeds provide unrestricted loading access from the top, sides, or rear, making them essential for industries that require efficient freight handling.

Flatbed trailers are widely used in construction, agriculture, logistics, and heavy equipment transport. Their versatility allows them to carry materials like lumber, steel beams, machinery, and oversized equipment that cannot fit inside traditional enclosed trailers.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about flatbed trailers, including:

• The history and evolution of flatbed trailers
• The different types of flatbed trailers and their uses
• Common dimensions and load capacities
• Industry applications and best practices for transporting cargo

History of Flatbed Trailers

Flatbed trailers have been critical in freight transportation for over a century. As industries expanded and infrastructure improved, they evolved to accommodate larger, heavier, and more diverse loads.

Early Developments in Flatbed Trailer Design

Flatbed trailers originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when horse-drawn wagons were used to transport heavy goods such as timber and industrial equipment. 

As the automobile industry grew, motorized trucks replaced horses, and flatbed trailers were developed to haul materials more efficiently. Early designs were simple, constructed primarily from wood with steel reinforcements, and had fixed axles and limited weight capacity.

Technological Advancements

By the mid-20th century, improvements in steel fabrication and welding led to stronger, more durable flatbed trailers. Pneumatic tires replaced wooden and solid rubber wheels, reducing road vibrations and making long-haul transport more efficient. Suspension systems were also upgraded, enhancing stability and enabling the safe transportation of heavier cargo.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the trucking industry standardized trailer lengths and weight capacities, creating consistency in regulations across states and improving efficiency in freight logistics.

Modern Innovations & Materials

Today’s flatbed trailers are designed for greater efficiency, durability, and adaptability. Many are constructed from high-strength steel, aluminum, or composite materials, reducing overall weight while maintaining structural integrity. Extendable flatbeds and modular trailer designs provide flexibility for oversized loads, and automated load securement systems improve safety. 

Some modern trailers incorporate telematics and GPS tracking, allowing fleet managers to monitor load conditions, optimize routes, and improve overall performance in real time.

Types of Flatbed Trailers

Here are the most common types of flatbed trailers, along with their advantages, and typical specifications.

Standard Flatbed Trailer

A standard flatbed trailer is the most commonly used type, featuring a level deck with no side rails or enclosures. This design allows for easy loading and unloading from all directions.

Typical Use Cases

• Building materials (lumber, steel beams, concrete pipes)
• Machinery and equipment
• Palletized freight
• Vehicles and heavy-duty parts

Typical Dimensions and Capacities

• Length: 48 to 53 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Deck Height: Approximately 5 feet
• Maximum Freight Weight: Up to 48,000 pounds

Many freight companies, contractors, and logistics providers use the standard flatbed because it is easy to use and has a wide range of applications.

Step Deck (Drop Deck) Trailer

A step deck trailer, also called a drop deck trailer, has two deck levels: an upper deck and a lower deck. The lower deck sits closer to the ground, allowing for the transport of taller cargo without exceeding height restrictions.

Use Cases for Transporting Taller Cargo

• Large industrial equipment (generators, HVAC units)
• Farm machinery (tractors, combines)
• Prefabricated structures that require additional clearance

Typical Dimensions and Capacities

• Upper Deck Length: 10 to 11 feet
• Lower Deck Length: 37 to 43 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Upper Deck Height: Approximately 5 feet
• Lower Deck Height: Approximately 3.5 to 4 feet
• Maximum Freight Weight: Up to 48,000 pounds

Lowboy Trailer

A lowboy trailer has an extremely low deck height, making it ideal for transporting heavy and oversized loads that would exceed legal height limits on other trailers. These trailers have two drops in deck height, one just after the gooseneck and another before the rear axles.

Applications for Heavy Equipment Transport

• Excavators, bulldozers, and loaders
• Military vehicles
• Heavy construction machinery

Typical Dimensions and Capacities

• Main Deck Length: 24 to 29 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Deck Height: 18 to 24 inches (varies by model)
• Maximum Freight Weight: 40,000 to 80,000 pounds (varies with axle configuration)

Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailer

An RGN trailer is similar to a lowboy, but it has a detachable front section, allowing the trailer to drop to the ground and create a built-in loading ramp. This makes it one of the best options for self-loading heavy equipment.

Ideal Applications for RGN Use

• Transporting construction vehicles
• Loading wheeled or tracked equipment (cranes, backhoes)
• Oversized machinery requiring specialized loading techniques

Typical Dimensions and Capacities

• Main Deck Length: 29 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Main Deck Height: 18 to 24 inches
• Maximum Freight Weight: 40,000 to 80,000 pounds (depending on axle configuration)

RGN trailers are frequently used in the heavy hauling and construction industries due to their self-loading capabilities.

Extendable Flatbed Trailer

An extendable flatbed trailer, also known as a stretch flatbed, is designed to accommodate extra-long cargo. The trailer expands in length, providing additional support for unusually long materials.

For Oversized or Unusually Long Loads

• Pipelines and wind turbine blades
• Precast concrete beams
• Aircraft components

Typical Dimensions and Capacities

• Length: 48 to 80 feet (extendable)
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Deck Height: Approximately 5 feet
• Maximum Freight Weight: Up to 43,000 pounds

Curtain Side Trailer

A curtain side trailer is a hybrid between a flatbed and an enclosed trailer. It features a rolling tarp system that can be retracted or fully enclosed.

Use Cases for Curtain Sides

• Sensitive freight requiring weather protection
• Bulk cargo that must be loaded from the side
• Freight that needs rapid loading and unloading

Typical Dimensions and Capacities

• Length: 48 to 53 feet
• Width: 8.5 feet
• Height: Approximately 13.5 feet
• Maximum Freight Weight: 40,000 to 45,000 pounds

Flatbed Materials & Construction

Steel Flatbed Trailers

Steel flatbed trailers are renowned for their robustness, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications and challenging terrains. Their rigid structure ensures stability and resilience under substantial loads.

While steel provides exceptional strength, it is heavier than other materials, which can reduce payload capacity and impact fuel efficiency. Additionally, steel is prone to rust and corrosion, necessitating regular maintenance to preserve its integrity.

Aluminum Flatbed Trailers

Aluminum trailers are significantly lighter than their steel counterparts, allowing for increased payloads and improved fuel economy. This weight reduction can lead to cost savings over time, especially for operators covering long distances.

Aluminum naturally resists rust and corrosion, offering longevity with minimal maintenance. This characteristic makes aluminum trailers particularly advantageous in wet or coastal environments where steel trailers might deteriorate more rapidly. 

Composite Flatbed Trailers

Composite flatbed trailers integrate materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, and reinforced polymers to balance strength and weight. This combination aims to provide the durability of steel with the lightweight benefits of aluminum.

While composite trailers often come with a higher initial investment, their reduced weight and enhanced corrosion resistance can lead to lower operational costs over time. However, the long-term performance and repairability of composite materials can vary, and considerations regarding their structural integrity and maintenance requirements are essential.

Flatbed Dimensions & Specifications

Standard Dimensions

Standard flatbed trailers typically measure 48 to 53 feet long and 8.5 feet (102 inches) wide. The deck height is usually around 5 feet, allowing a maximum cargo height of approximately 8.5 feet to remain within legal limits.

In the United States, federal regulations generally permit a maximum width of 8.5 feet and a height of 13.5 feet for commercial vehicles, including flatbed trailers. However, state-specific regulations may vary, and operators should verify local laws to ensure compliance.

Weight Capacities

The GVWR encompasses the total allowable weight of the vehicle, including the trailer, cargo, fuel, and driver. According to federal regulations, the GVWR for most flatbed trailers is 80,000 pounds.

Proper load distribution is essential to prevent overloading axles and ensure safe handling. Standard tandem axle configurations typically support up to 34,000 pounds, while spread axle setups can accommodate up to 40,000 pounds, depending on state regulations. Operators must be mindful of axle spacing and weight limits to comply with the Federal Bridge Gross Weight Formula and avoid penalties.

Flatbed Loading and Unloading

Safety Protocols

Flatbed trailers should be free from corrosion or damage before loading. Verifying that hold-down openings are sturdy and free from defects prevents potential accidents. Additionally, conducting a comprehensive 360-degree walk-around assessment prior to securing the load helps identify and mitigate hazards, ensuring load stability and worker safety.

Loading Best Practices

Position heavier items at the trailer’s center of gravity maintains balance and reduces the risk of tipping. Employing sufficient tie-downs and securing devices prevents cargo from shifting during transit, safeguarding both the load and the vehicle. Regularly inspecting these securements during stops ensures ongoing stability and compliance with safety standards.

Flatbed Maintenance & Care

Routine Inspections

A consistent inspection schedule is crucial. Monthly checks should focus on high-risk components to detect early signs of wear or damage. This includes examining the trailer’s undercarriage, suspension systems, and securement points. Don’t forget to inspect the trailer regularly for rust and corrosion.

Longevity Tips

Regular cleaning of the undercarriage, especially after exposure to harsh conditions, prevents the buildup of corrosive materials. Protective coatings applied to vulnerable areas also shield against environmental damage.

Purchasing Considerations

When deciding between renting, buying new, or purchasing a used flatbed trailer, it’s essential to consider your operational needs and financial situation.

Renting a flatbed offers flexibility, especially for short-term projects or fluctuating workloads. Hale Trailer provides a variety of rental terms—daily, weekly, monthly, annually, or multi-year—to accommodate diverse hauling requirements. Our rental fleet is fully maintained and ready for immediate use. 

Buying new ensures access to the latest features and full manufacturer warranties, making it ideal for long-term investments. At Hale Trailer, we offer an extensive inventory of new flatbed trailers from top manufacturers, ensuring quality and durability.

Purchasing used is a cost-effective alternative, providing reliable performance with lower upfront costs. Hale Trailer’s selection of used flatbed trailers undergoes thorough inspections to meet high standards of quality and safety.

Find the Flatbeds You Need at Hale

Flatbed trailers are essential in the transportation industry. They offer versatility for hauling all kinds of cargo in all sorts of conditions.

At Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel, we offer an extensive inventory of flatbed trailers to meet all your hauling needs. Whether you’re considering renting, purchasing new, or acquiring a used trailer, Hale Trailer delivers quality and reliability. With Hale, you get everything you need—all backed by exceptional service and support. 

Contact one of our flatbed experts today to find the perfect trailer for all your hauling needs.