What are Flatbed Trucks: Types, Uses, Advantages and Disadvantages

Flatbed trucks, with their open cargo beds and versatile design, play a crucial role in transporting a wide range of goods and equipment.

In this article, we will learn more about flatbed trucks, exploring what they are, the different types available, their dimensions, their benefits, and their common uses.

Additionally, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of flatbed trucks to help you decide when considering this type of transportation.

A flatbed truck, as the name suggests, is a commercial vehicle equipped with an open cargo area, or "bed," that lacks the sides and roof found in traditional enclosed trucks.

This design allows for easy loading and unloading of goods and equipment from the sides and rear, making it well-suited for hauling many items, including construction materials, machinery, oversized cargo, and more.

It's essential to understand that choosing the right type depends on the nature of the cargo. Here are seven common types of flatbed trucks and their brief descriptions:

• Lowboys: Lowboy flatbed trucks have a deck that sits much lower to the ground than traditional flatbeds, making them ideal for transporting tall or oversized cargo. They are commonly used for heavy construction equipment.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 5 inc, Length - 30 ft max and Height- 11 ft 6 inc.

• Side-kit Flatbeds: Side-kit flatbed trucks feature removable side panels and stakes that provide added security and containment for cargo. They are suitable for hauling goods that require protection from the elements.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 4 inc, Length- 53 ft max and Height- 8 ft 6 inc.

• Double Drop Flatbeds: Double drop flatbeds have two lower deck levels, with the middle section being lower than the front and rear sections. This design allows for the transportation of exceptionally tall loads.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 6 inc, Length- Main deck: 25ft /Front deck: 10 ft/ Rear deck: 9 ft and Height- Main deck: 11 ft 6 inc/ Front deck: 8 ft 6 inc/ Rear deck: 10 ft.

• Stretch Single Drop Deck: Stretch single drop deck flatbeds offer an extended deck length while maintaining a single drop in height. They are commonly used for transporting long and oversized cargo.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 6 inc, Length- 63 ft max and Height- 10 ft.

• Extendable Flatbeds: Extendable flatbeds can be adjusted to accommodate cargo of varying lengths. This flexibility makes them suitable for transporting loads of different sizes.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 6 inc, Length - 80 ft max and Height- 8 ft 6 inc.

• Step Deck Flatbeds: Step deck flatbeds have a lower deck in the front section, providing additional clearance for taller cargo towards the rear. This design is ideal for hauling equipment requiring height and ground clearance.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 6 inc, Length- 37 ft bottom /11 ft top and Height- 10 ft.

• Standard Flatbeds: Standard flatbeds are the most common type used for a wide range of cargo. They have a single, flat deck and are versatile in their application.

Dimensions: Width- 8 ft 6 inc, Length- 48 to 53 ft and Height- 8 ft 6 inc.

Flatbed trucks are used in a wide range of industries and for various applications, including:

• Construction: Transporting heavy machinery, construction materials, and equipment to job sites.
• Manufacturing: Hauling raw materials, finished products, and oversized machinery.
• Agriculture: Moving large farm equipment, hay bales, and livestock.
• Transportation: Carrying vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and heavy equipment.
• Energy: Transporting wind turbine components, solar panels, and oil rig equipment.
• Military: Shipping military vehicles, tanks, and supplies.
• Retail: Delivering construction materials, appliances, and oversized retail products.

Flatbed trucks offer several advantages over other types of commercial vehicles:

• Accessibility: The open design makes loading and unloading cargo easier, especially large or irregularly shaped items.
• Versatility: Flatbeds can carry a wide range of cargo, from heavy machinery to construction materials, thanks to their customisable configurations.
• Efficient Use of Space: Flatbeds maximise cargo space without walls and a roof, allowing for larger or more irregularly shaped loads.
• Enhanced Safety: Cargo is easier to secure and inspect, reducing the risk of accidents during transport.

Despite their many advantages, flatbed trucks also have some limitations

• Weather Exposure: Cargo on flatbeds is exposed to the elements, which can lead to damage from rain, snow, or UV rays.
• Cargo Security: Securing cargo on flatbeds can be more challenging than in enclosed trailers, increasing the risk of theft or damage during transit.
• Special Permits: Transporting oversized loads on flatbeds may require special permits and escorts, adding to the logistical complexity.
• Height Restrictions: Height restrictions may limit some cargo due to overpasses and bridges.
• Safety Concerns: Loading and securing cargo on flatbeds can be hazardous, requiring proper training and equipment.

Therefore, flatbed trucks are essential assets in the world of transportation, offering unmatched versatility and flexibility. From hauling construction equipment to transporting oversized cargo, flatbed trucks play a pivotal role in various industries.

While flatbed trucks are not without their challenges, their ability to handle a wide range of cargo makes them invaluable in the modern logistics landscape.