What are the standard dimensions of your flatbed trailers?

Our standard flatbeds are 48-53 feet in length with 8.5 feet width. We also have specialized flatbeds including step decks, double drops, and extendable trailers for oversized loads.

How is cargo secured on flatbed trailers?

We use a combination of chains, straps, edge protectors, and other securement devices in accordance with DOT regulations. Our drivers are trained in proper load securement for various cargo types to ensure safety during transit.

Flatbed Trucking Services | Freight Sidekick

Flatbed Transportation Services

Open deck trailers ideal for oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped cargo. Our flatbed services include proper securing, tarping when needed, and expert handling for construction materials, machinery, and other industrial goods.

Key Benefits

Easy loading from all sides and top
Suitable for oversized cargo
Flexible securing options
Experienced drivers specialized in load securement
Various trailer sizes available

When flatbed is the right choice

Flatbed is built for cargo that won't fit (or load) inside an enclosed trailer — open-deck access, oversize dimensions, and crane or side-loading. Here's when it's the right call.

Pick flatbed when

•Cargo is oversized, irregular, or won't fit in a 53' enclosed trailer
•Loading is done from the top, side, or with a crane / forklift
•Steel, lumber, machinery, construction materials, or prefab structures
•Weather-tolerant (or you're willing to tarp — we handle lumber, steel, and smoke tarps)

Consider an alternative when

→Freight needs weather protection or theft security — dry van
→Refrigeration required — refrigerated (reefer)
→Severely over-dimensional, heavy haul, or low-clearance — specialized (step-deck, RGN, double-drop)
→Less than truckload quantity — LTL or partial truckload

Flatbed Specifications

Technical details and capabilities to help you plan your shipment

Trailer Specifications

Dimensions:48'-53' Length × 8.5' Width × 5' Deck Height

Max Load:48,000 lbs

Capacity:Open top and sides

Features:Rub rails, Stake pockets, Winches, Chains

Common Equipment

Chains and binders
Straps and winches
Corner protectors
Tarps for weather protection
Edge protectors

Common Freight Types

Ideal cargo types for Flatbed transportation

Building Materials

Lumber, steel, piping, and other construction supplies.

Machinery

Heavy equipment, tractors, and industrial machinery.

Raw Materials

Steel coils, concrete forms, and other industrial raw materials.

Prefab Structures

Modular homes, sheds, and pre-assembled structures.

Industries We Serve

Specialized Flatbed solutions for diverse industry needs

Construction

Building materials suppliers
Steel fabricators
Lumber yards
Contractors

Agriculture

Farm equipment dealers
Agricultural suppliers
Irrigation systems
Livestock equipment

Manufacturing

Industrial equipment
Metal fabrication
Machinery producers
Raw materials

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Flatbed shipping

For weather-sensitive cargo, we offer tarping services using (4', 6', and 8') lumber tarps, steel tarps, or smoke tarps depending on the cargo type. Our drivers are experts in proper tarping techniques for maximum protection.

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Explore state-specific flatbed trucking services, commodities, and information.

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Flatbed Trucking Services