FLATBED TRAILERS

Understanding open-deck load dimensions

• Aug 14- 2024

Flatbed trailers are essential in transporting oversized or uniquely shaped cargo, thanks to their open-deck design. However, understanding the general dimensional limits for these trailers is crucial for ensuring safe and legal transportation across North America. For more specialized applications, MGA also offers tailored over-dimensional trucking services to accommodate extra-wide or tall freight.

Importance of Dimensional Compliance

When dealing with flatbed transportation carriers, it’s vital to be aware of the specific dimensional limits for your load. These limits are not just guidelines but legal requirements that vary across jurisdictions. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines, delays, or even accidents. The versatility of flatbed trailers lies in their ability to accommodate a wide range of cargo, but this flexibility comes with the responsibility of adhering to width, height, and length restrictions.

General Dimensional Guidelines

While dimensional regulations can vary, there are general guidelines that flatbed trucking services follow:

• Width: Generally, flatbed trailers can carry loads up to approximately 8.5 feet wide. Beyond this, special permits are often required.
• Length: The length of a flatbed trailer can vary, typically ranging from 48 to 53 feet, but the overall load length must meet jurisdictional regulations.
• Height: The max height on flatbed trailers is typically restricted to ensure safety during transport. Loads taller than the standard height usually require special routing and permits.

Types of Cargo Suitable for Flatbed Trailers

Flatbed trailers are ideal for transporting a variety of cargo types, including:

• Machinery: Large industrial equipment and machinery that cannot be disassembled.
• Construction Materials: Beams, pipes, and other materials that require easy loading and unloading.
• Vehicles: Cars, trucks, and heavy machinery that are too large for enclosed trailers. For even heavier or more complex cargo, consider MGA’s lowboy trucking services which are engineered to handle tall and heavy loads closer to the ground.

The versatility of flatbed trailers makes them a preferred choice for many industries, but it’s important to match the load to the right type of trailer—such as step deck trailers—when additional clearance is needed.

Special Considerations for Oversized Loads

Transporting oversized loads with flatbed transportation carriers requires meticulous planning. Special permits are needed when the cargo exceeds standard dimensions. In addition to permits, certain jurisdictions may require pilot cars or escorts to ensure the safety of the load and other drivers on the road. Route planning is also crucial, as oversized loads may not be able to pass through tunnels, over bridges, or under low-clearance structures.

For cross-border shipments, regulatory requirements can get even more complex. MGA offers cross-border shipping services that ensure smooth transit across international boundaries.

Another critical factor is load securing. The open nature of flatbed trailers means that loads must be carefully secured to prevent shifting or falling during transit. This is particularly important for tall or unusually shaped loads that may be affected by wind resistance. When precision and urgency are essential, expedited freight trucking may offer the speed and security required for high-value cargo.

Legal and Safety Considerations

To ensure compliance with all legal requirements, it’s important to work with experienced flatbed trucking services. They have the knowledge and expertise to navigate the complex web of regulations that govern the transportation of oversized loads. Safety is paramount, not just for the cargo but for everyone on the road. Proper securing, load distribution, and adherence to dimensional limits all play a role in ensuring that your cargo reaches its destination safely.

For shipments that don’t require a full trailer, partial truckload shipping can offer a cost-effective and flexible alternative while still maintaining load security and compliance.

Why Choose Experienced Flatbed Transportation Carriers

Choosing a reliable and experienced flatbed transportation carrier is essential for the safe and legal transport of oversized loads. Companies like MGA International Logistics have the expertise, equipment, and network to handle even the most challenging transportation needs. With a deep understanding of the dimensional limits and regulatory requirements across North America, they ensure that your cargo arrives on time and in perfect condition. If your operation also involves temperature-sensitive cargo, MGA’s refrigerated trucking services provide the same level of reliability for perishable goods. Trusting professionals with your flatbed transportation needs means peace of mind and a commitment to safety and compliance. Additionally, for local or time-sensitive freight handling, their local cartage trucking solutions can help move goods quickly and efficiently within urban zones.

By understanding the intricacies of flatbed load dimensions and working with knowledgeable carriers, you can ensure that your transportation projects are executed flawlessly, regardless of the challenges posed by oversized cargo. MGA also supports integrated warehousing and distribution solutions to further streamline your freight logistics.

Also Read:
Services Offered by Double Drop Flatbed Carriers in Canada
Wood & Lumber Transport: Flatbed trailers provide a great shipping option
Know the Dimensional Limits on Loads for Flatbed Trailers
How Is a Step Deck Trailer Different From a Flatbed Trailer?