How Should You Transport a Load On a Flatbed Trailer?

If you’ve ever seen a huge trailer carrying military equipment or the wings of a windmill, you know how large flatbed trailers can get.

Flatbed trailers offer an innovative and cost-effective way to transport oversized cargo across the country. From construction to music concerts to national defense, flatbed trailers are critical for the safe delivery of vital cargo.

However, securely transporting wide loads on a flatbed truck can be extremely challenging. Even a small mistake can lead to trailer sway or imbalance, which could cause a trailer to tilt, tip, or damage its cargo.

So, how should you transport a load on a flatbed trailer? What precautions should you take while transporting wide loads?

In this blog, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about securely shipping wide loads on flatbed trailers. Let’s get started!

Understanding Flatbed Trailer Transport

A flatbed trailer is an open-deck trailer without sides or a roof. It is commonly used to transport oversized loads and FTL freight.

The open-deck design of a flatbed trailer makes it easy to load and unload cargo, making it an attractive option for bulky, oversized, and heavy-duty goods.

Here are some of the most common types of flatbed loads:

Construction materials such as lumber, steel beams, concrete blocks, and prefabricated structures.
Heavy machinery, including turbines, windmills, tractors, excavators, and generators.
Vehicles such as cars, trucks, and RVs.
Large pipes and tubes made of PVC, concrete, and steel.
Oversized cargo that cannot be accommodated on open or enclosed trailers, including vehicle tires and raw materials.
Stage equipment for concerts and shows that are too heavy for a dry van truck.
Military equipment, including armored vehicles, artillery, communication systems, missiles, and mobile medical units.
LTL freight, transported using dedicated LTL flatbed trucks.

How Should You Transport a Load on a Flatbed Trailer?

If you’re handling the transport yourself, follow these essential steps to ensure a safe and secure shipment. But if you’d rather leave it to the experts, uShip makes it easy to find experienced flatbed carriers who already know how to do this for you.

1. Inspect the Trailer for Readiness

Ensure that the trailer has all the necessary equipment to secure your load. This includes anchor points, straps, tension-bearing weights, and more.

2. Distribute the Cargo Evenly

Once you’re satisfied with the trailer’s readiness, it’s time to load the cargo. To do this securely, distribute the cargo weight evenly to maintain proper balance. Imbalanced cargo is highly susceptible to movement or damage during transit, so avoid overloading one side of the trailer.

3. Secure the Load

After evenly loading the cargo onto the trailer, secure it using high-quality straps, chains, and edge protectors. Double-check to ensure your cargo won’t shift during transit due to vibrations or uneven roads. Use tarps to protect loads vulnerable to heat, moisture, or dust.

4. Check for Overhang or Loose Ends

Perform a pre-transit inspection and check for overhang or loose ends.

Overhang occurs when your cargo length exceeds the maximum trailer width, which can destabilize the trailer. If you notice an overhang, consider rearranging your cargo.
Loose ends refer to ropes, straps, or bungee cords used to secure the cargo. Ensure they are tightly fastened to prevent movement during transit.

5. Adhere to Safety Guidelines and Regulations

While federal regulations on wide-load transportation are limited, states have specific rules to ensure safety. These may include installing amber lights and red flags on trailers for visibility. Some states also require certified front and rear escorts for oversized loads.

Review these regulations carefully to avoid fines, damage, or accidents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when transporting loads on flatbed trailers:

Overloading: Overloading destabilizes the trailer and increases the risk of tipping. Always determine the trailer’s weight limit and adhere to it.
Incorrect Tire Pressure: Incorrect tire pressure can lead to loss of control, excessive tire wear, and blowouts. While the carrier should check this, double-checking can help prevent unforeseen issues.
Trailer Sway: Trailer sway occurs when the trailer moves sideways behind the truck. To prevent this, ensure an even load distribution and use anti-sway devices like sway bars.
Poorly Maintained Trailers: A poorly maintained trailer is prone to structural failures, including brake, engine, or hydraulic issues. Choose a reputable wide-load carrier to ensure proper maintenance.

What Is the Maximum Trailer Width for Flatbed Loads?

In the U.S., a shipment qualifies as a wide load if it exceeds 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 meters) in width. The maximum trailer width allowed by DOT regulations is 8.5 feet, and this applies to load height as well.

Different states may have varying definitions of wide loads, so check state-specific regulations before shipping.

In Canada, the maximum trailer width allowed by law is 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 meters).

Handling wide loads can be challenging, as accidents can result in significant damage to property, cargo, and safety. Regulations often require wide loads to have amber lights, red flags, and travel escorts to maximize visibility and reduce risks.

Escorts and Permits

The U.S. federal government does not issue permits for wide-load transportation. However, individual states, such as Louisiana and Minnesota, grant permits to wide-load carriers.

Additionally, states may require certified front and rear escorts to accompany oversized loads for safety and visibility.

Ensure your carrier has the necessary state-issued permits and provides required escorts for the transit.

Best Practices for Securing Flatbed Trailer Loads

1. Choose the Right Equipment

Select the appropriate equipment to secure your flatbed load. Use premium-quality straps, chains, binders, and edge protectors to prevent cargo movement and protect against heat, moisture, and dust.

2. Weatherproof Your Cargo

To protect cargo from the elements, wrap it with a tarp and secure it using heavy-duty straps or bungee cords.

3. Conduct Regular Inspections

Perform pre-shipping and periodic transit inspections to check anchor points, straps, chains, and tarps. Replace any worn-out equipment to maintain safety standards.

Benefits of Using a Flatbed Trailer for Freight Transport

1. Versatility

Flatbed trailers accommodate irregularly shaped, bulky, or oversized cargo that enclosed trailers cannot.

2. Accessibility

With no sides or roof, flatbed trailers allow easy loading and unloading, reducing handling time and risk.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

Shipping oversized loads on a flatbed trailer eliminates the need for disassembly and reassembly, reducing costs, time, and effort.

You’re Ready to Securely Ship Your Flatbed Trailer Load

Flatbed shipping can be complex, but following best practices ensures a safe and compliant transit.

For reliable flatbed transport services, consider using uShip’s trusted shipping marketplace to connect with experienced wide-load carriers.

Visit uShip’s website today and experience stress-free shipping!

TL;DR: Key Takeaways for Flatbed Trailer Transport

Wide Load Rules: In the U.S., loads wider than 8 feet 6 inches require special permits and may need escorts. Height limits vary by state.
Securing Cargo: Distribute weight evenly, use high-quality straps and chains, and check for overhang or loose ends.
Safety Regulations: Some states require amber lights, red flags, and escorts for oversized loads.
Common Mistakes: Avoid overloading, improper tire pressure, and poorly maintained trailers.
uShip Makes It Easy: Find trusted flatbed carriers who handle all the details for you.

Need expert help? Ship your flatbed load with uShip today! 🚛

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Mastering Flatbed Trailer Transport: Tips for Safe Delivery