Because the bed of a flatbed trailer is not restricted by traditional enclosed semi-trailers, it is ideal for transporting oversized cargo. But for the transport of oversized cargo, special permits are required in almost every region. This is closely related to the size of the flatbed trailer. It is also beneficial to know the dimensions of flatbed trailers for cargo transportation. This allows us to avoid exceeding the legal height limits and to better plan the transported cargo.
Flatbed trailer types
Flatbed trailers can be divided into many different types, each with a different appearance and size. The goods they transport are also different.
We will briefly introduce the different types of flatbed trailers, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
Gooseneck Flatbed Trailers
This is a common alternative to the traditional flatbed trailer. It differs from a standard flatbed trailer in that it has two heights. This allows it to transport higher loads without exceeding the legally required heights.
Lowboy trailer
This is almost the lowest semi-trailer. Different from the gooseneck flatbed trailer, it has two drops, after the gooseneck tube and before the rear trailer wheels. So, the lowboy trailer is suitable for transporting some very high loads, such as forklifts, bulldozers, and other large apparatus.
Similar to the lowboy trailer is the Removable Gooseneck Trailer (RGN). This type of trailer can remove the neck. A ramp is formed between the bed and the ground in order to load loads. In this case, these machines can be driven directly onto a semi-trailer.
Extendable Flatbed Trailer
It is similar to a standard flatbed, but has built-in sliding mechanisms. These mechanisms extend the length of the flatbed trailer and prevent the cargo from touching the ground due to excessive length. Typically, extendable flatbed trailers are used to transport wind turbine blades.
FAQ about flatbed trailer sizes
How wide are flatbed trailers?
While the height and length of flatbed trailers can vary depending on the type, they are almost the same width, both being 8.5 feet.
How long is a flatbed trailer?
Flatbed semi-trailers typically measure between 48 feet and 53 feet.
And the length of extendable flatbed trailers can extend up to 80 ft.
Lowboy trailers, while also usually 48 ft. in length, are capable of carrying cargo up to 29 ft. in general. The front deck length is 10 feet and the rear deck length is 9 feet.
How high is a flatbed trailer above the ground?
The standard flatbed trailer is usually 5 feet above the ground, which varies depending on the model. The height of cargo that can be transported is usually 8.5 feet.
Gooseneck flatbed trailers have steps that drop to 3.6 feet, so the height of transportable cargo is usually 10 feet.
The lowest deck of a low flatbed trailer has a height between 18 inches and 24 inches from the ground. Because this height is so low, it can transport a legal cargo height of 12 feet.