A good understanding regarding the uses of a flatbed trailer is just as useful for people just starting in the commercial transportation industry as it is for longtime industry veterans. A firm grasp of how these vehicles work and the proper techniques for loading them allows drivers and the companies that hire them to take full advantage of these vehicles while ensuring the safe delivery of their loads.
Design and Construction of Flatbed Trailers.
The flat trailer design that is the hallmark of a flatbed trailer allows the trailer to double as a floor or shelf. Most flatbed trailers do not have ceilings or walls, which can be a pro or a con depending on the situation.
One positive benefit of flatbed trailer design is there is never a need to worry about loading extra tall products. The tradeoff is that less protection is available to loads due to the lack of walls.
Another benefit to a person interested in a flatbed trailer purchase or finding flatbed semi trailers for rent is a versatility that makes the trailer ideal for a variety of load types. According to the experts at Hale Trailer, “One of the many reasons flatbeds are a favorite for hauling materials is because they can carry weights up to 48,000 pounds, with their length ranging from 48 to 53 feet. Flatbed trailers are highly versatile, capable of hauling everything from steel coils to lumber.” When flatbed trailers become the chosen vessel to transport heavy objects, there is less need to worry about any damage that wood, metal, and other materials can cause the walls of other commercial transport vehicles.
Loading a Flatbed Trailer.
Flatbed trailers come in various sizes, and different construction materials are available to make them. The construction of the flatbed trailer selected will become the determining factor as to what type of loads are convenient to haul with a particular trailer.
It is important to note that the flexibility of a flatbed trailer does not mean that road safety issues are not of importance when loading a trailer. For instance, you do not want things hanging from the back of a flatbed trailer simply because it is possible to do so.
Common flatbed trailer types include:
Standard Trailers.
Standard flatbed trailers represent a good choice for transporting large construction equipment. Machinery and objects constructed with steel ride well via standard flatbed trailers.
Double-Deck Trailers.
The top of a double-deck trailer sits lower than other flatbed trailer types, providing additional overhead clearance for large loads.
Double-Drop Trailers.
Double-drop flatbed trailers possess raised front and rear decks that combine with a low center to form a well that makes it convenient to load and transport taller items. Loaders benefit from not having to lift heavy objects very high, but the design of the truck also results in a trailer length with less usable space.
Safe Loading of Flatbed Trucks.
Many of the injuries sustained while loading flatbed trucks can be eliminated through the use of basic safety equipment. This equipment includes nets, harnesses, safety ladders, and others. Knowing when and how to use this equipment is essential to the safety of drivers and loaders.
The Takeaway.
Flatbed trailers are essential to the transport of heavy loads across the country. However, transport efforts will go more smoothly if drivers and loaders gain a complete understanding of the flatbed trailer options available to them.
