When Do You Need Flatbed Trucking?
Flatbed trucks are used for freight that is oversized, heavy, oddly shaped, or needs to be loaded from the top or sides using cranes or forklifts.
Types of Flatbed Equipment
| Equipment | Length | Max Height | Max Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Flatbed | 48'–53' | 8'6" | 48,000 lbs | Steel, lumber, machinery |
| Step Deck | 48'–53' | 10' | 43,000 lbs | Tall equipment, vehicles |
| Double Drop | 48'–53' | 11'6" | 40,000 lbs | Very tall/heavy equipment |
| Conestoga | 48'–53' | 8'6" | 44,000 lbs | Weather-sensitive open-deck freight |
| RGN | 48'–53' | 14'+ | 42,000+ lbs | Non-divisible oversized loads |
Load Securement Requirements
FMCSA requires:
- Minimum of one tiedown for articles 5 feet or less
- Two tiedowns for articles 5–10 feet
- Additional tiedown for every 10 feet beyond
- Working load limit (WLL) must equal at least 50% of cargo weight
- Edge protection for chains on sharp cargo
Flatbed Pricing
| Lane | Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Regional (< 500 mi) | $3.00–$4.50/mile |
| Long Haul (500–1,500 mi) | $2.75–$4.00/mile |
| Specialized/Oversize | $4.00–$8.00+/mile |
Additional costs:
- Tarping: $75–$150 per tarp
- Oversize permits: $50–$500+ per state
- Escort vehicles: $500–$1,500/day (if required)
- Pilot cars: Required for loads over 12' wide in most states
Common Flatbed Commodities
- Structural steel and pipe
- Lumber and building materials
- Construction equipment
- Industrial machinery
- Wind turbine components
- Military vehicles and equipment
- Precast concrete
Tips for Shippers
- Provide accurate dimensions and weight for proper equipment selection
- Specify loading requirements (crane, forklift, ramp)
- Allow adequate load/unload time (flatbed loads take longer)
- Consider weather — tarping adds time and cost
- Check permit requirements for oversize/overweight loads
Indray arranges flatbed trucking across the US with vetted, experienced carriers. Request a quote.
