7 Common Types Of Flatbed Trailers

In the logistics industry, the flatbed truck is an important means of transportation. This is due to its high degree of flexibility and versatility, among other features. The open design of these trailers enables easy loading and unloading and can meet a wide range of transportation needs from construction materials to industrial equipment.

However, there are many types of flatbed trailers, so how to choose the right type of flatbed trailer? This is a question that many customers are concerned about, and Genron will introduce different types of flatbed trailers to you in this article. This will help you choose the right type of flatbed trailer to meet your transportation needs.

What is a flatbed trailer?

A flatbed truck is a type of cargo vehicle that has a flat, open platform. This type of trailer has no side or roof enclosure structure and is specifically designed for the transportation of large, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo. It is designed to accommodate the loading and unloading of cargo from any direction, making it ideal for oversized and other items that are not suitable for enclosed van transportation. Commonly transported goods include construction materials, machinery and equipment, and industrial components. Flatbed trailers are ideal for the logistics industry. This is because these trailers can be customized to meet the needs of different cargo transportation and ensure the safety of the transportation process.

Popular flatbed trailer types and specific data

In the field of logistics and transportation, there are many types of flatbed trailers. But each type has its unique design and features to suit various transportation needs. Therefore, before buying, you need to understand the technical parameters of different parameters and application scenarios in detail. Understanding these can help you better choose the right mode of transportation. Below are the common types of flatbed trailers and their detailed parameters.

Standard Flatbed Trailer

Standard flatbed trailer is a basic type of trailer. It is widely used for the transportation of construction materials, heavy machinery, steel and other industrial products. The whole vehicle has an open design, and the cargo can be loaded from all directions. It is a regular option among flatbed trailers. Its specific parameters are:

• Maximum length: 48-53 feet
• Maximum width: 8.5 feet
• Maximum height: 60 inches
• Maximum weight capacity: 48,000 pounds

Lowboy Trailers

Lowboy trailers are primarily concerned with the transportation of cargo that is too tall to be transported on a standard flatbed trailer. These goods may not be able to be transported efficiently on a standard flatbed trailer. This is because these goods are restricted by height laws. Lowboy trailers are designed to lower overtime heights below ground level to carry cargo such as construction equipment, industrial machinery and heavy equipment. The low center of gravity design also contributes to transport stability, which is particularly useful for passing over bridges or low tunnels. The conventional parameters are:

• Maximum length: 24-29.6 feet (well length)
• Maximum width: 8.5 feet
• Maximum cargo height: 11.5-12 feet (legal height)
• Maximum Gross Cargo Height: 14 feet
• Maximum load capacity: 40,000 lbs. to 95,000 lbs. depending on number of axles

Ladder Deck Trailers

Step deck trailers, also known as “floor trailers”. As the name implies, the floor height of this trailer is greatly reduced. When towing a step deck trailer, you can load objects up to 10-11.5 feet high, whereas standard flatbed trailers typically have a height limit of 8.5 feet. The step deck’s two-tiered design makes it adaptable. Its top deck can accommodate lightweight but bulky cargo, while the bottom deck is used for heavier loads.

• Maximum length: 37 feet (bottom deck), 11 feet (top deck)
• Maximum Width: 8.5 feet
• Maximum Height: 10 feet (bottom deck)
• Maximum weight capacity: 48,000 lbs (standard), up to 65,000 lbs on tri-axle

Retractable Flatbed Trailer

Retractable flatbed trailers offer a retractable deck length. This provides an ideal option for transporting extra-long cargo. These trailers are often used to transport wind turbines, steel beams and construction materials. The length of this trailer can be adjusted to suit the length of the cargo to prevent it from overhanging during transportation. It is designed to ensure safety during long distance transportation and reduce wear and tear on the cargo.

• Maximum length: 48-80 feet (main deck)
• Maximum Width: 8.5 feet
• Maximum Height: 8.5 feet
• Maximum Load: 43,000 lbs

Double Drop Trailer

The Double Drop Trailer is a trailer designed for transporting extra tall cargo. The trailer has three main sections: the front deck, a low center shaft (typically only 18-24 inches above the ground), and the rear deck. It’s especially suited for transporting large equipment and machinery, such as cranes or excavators, that are more than 11.5 feet tall. The Double Drop Trailer’s intermediate shaft provides a lower loading height than the Step Deck Trailer, allowing it to pass over low bridges or scenarios that require additional vertical space.

• • Maximum length: 25-29 feet (well length), 10 feet (front deck), 9 feet (rear deck)
  • Maximum Width: 8.5 feet
  • Maximum Height: 11.6 feet (main deck)
  • Maximum weight capacity: 36,000-42,000 lbs.

Removable Gooseneck Trailer (RGN)

The Removable Gooseneck Trailer (RGN) is named for its removable gooseneck design. This trailer design can be lowered to the ground to create a ramp that facilitates the loading and unloading of heavy machinery and oversized equipment. It is ideal for transporting long and tall loads. Some common ones are construction machinery, agricultural equipment and large industrial equipment. The RGN offers great flexibility compared to other trailer types. However, it is also more expensive to use because of its specialized nature and complexity.

• Maximum length: 29 feet (main deck)
• Maximum Width: 8.5 feet
• Maximum Height: 11.6 feet
• Maximum weight capacity: 44,000 to 150,000 lbs (depending on axle configuration)

Interlink/Super Link Flatbed Trailer

• The Interlink/Super Link Flatbed Trailer is a two-part trailer system. Typically the front section is 20 feet and the rear section is 40 feet. This combination design provides greater transportation flexibility. Ideal for hauling bulk cargo such as containers, steel, lumber, bagged grain, etc. And with Genron’s unique suspension design, it ensures safety and stability during transportation. It is the ideal solution for heavy cargo transportation.

• Maximum length: 20 ft. front trailer, 40 ft. rear trailer
• Maximum Width: 8.2 feet
• Maximum Height: 8 feet
• Maximum weight capacity: 100 tons

How to choose the right flatbed trailer for your needs?

1. Cargo Type: Determining the type of cargo you want to transport is the first factor in choosing a flatbed trailer. For cargo that is longer, wider or taller than standard, choose a retractable flatbed trailer or a detachable gooseneck trailer.
2. Frequency of Use: Consider how often the trailer will be used and how durable it will be. If it is used frequently, choose a type of trailer with sturdy construction and quality materials
3. Terrain and distance: If you need to transport long distances or need to traverse rough terrain. Then choosing a trailer with an air suspension system is the best option. This is because the air suspension system is effective in maintaining cargo stability and safety. Meanwhile, removable gooseneck trailers offer more convenience when loading and unloading equipment, which is ideal for transportation over complex terrain.
4. Regulations and Restrictions: Individual countries have specific regulations on the size and weight of goods to be transported. Therefore, when choosing a trailer, make sure it complies with the appropriate regulations. For example, some regions may have specific requirements for the number of axles and cargo height. Multi-axle detachable gooseneck trailers can be chosen for oversized transportation situations to meet regulatory requirements and ensure compliant transportation.
5. Budget: Choose the type of flatbed trailer that best fits within your budget. The more transportation capacity, the more expensive the trailer will be. For a complete price catalog, contact a Genron engineer directly.

Get a quote from Genron for different types of semi-trailers

Genron offers many types of semi-trailers to meet different transportation needs. Whether it’s a detachable gooseneck trailer, a retractable flatbed trailer or a standard flatbed trailer. Our factories are perfectly customized to meet your needs for your specific transported cargo.

By contacting the Genron sales team, you can receive a customized quote for your specific needs, ensuring that you choose the type of flatbed trailer that best suits your needs.

All of our models offer flexible configurations and excellent load carrying capacity for long hauls, large equipment, valuable machinery, and many other scenarios.