Flatbed Trucking and Shipping Services

Transporting goods via truck is one of the most common and reliable methods of shipping, and using a flatbed truck for this purpose can help ensure that your shipments arrive at their destination safely and on time.

Here’s everything you need to know about flatbed trucking and shipping services with the help of ValueTruck:

What Is Flatbed Trucking?

A flatbed trucking is a type of transportation vehicle that features an open bed without sides or a roof, allowing for easy loading and unloading of goods. Flatbed shipping is commonly used to transport large or oversized items, as well as heavy or bulky cargo.

What Is a Flatbed Trucking?

A flatbed trucking is typically made up of two parts: a chassis and a bed.

The chassis provides structural support for the vehicle, while the bed is the open area on top that can be used to carry goods.

Flatbed trailers are commonly constructed from steel or aluminum, although some newer models may also include features such as double drops, which allow for higher stacking of cargo.

What Do Flatbed Trucks Carry?

Flatbed trailers can be used to transport a wide range of goods, including furniture, appliances, machinery, and even vehicles. Flatbeds are ideal for the transportation of large or irregularly-shaped items that would not fit inside a traditional enclosed truck.

Flatbed Trucking Benefits

Now that you know more about the flatbed trucking industry and its shipping services, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of choosing this form of transport for your goods.

1. Flexibility

Flatbed truck drivers can ship a wide range of goods, including large or awkward cargo that might not be suited for enclosed transportation.

2. Safety

Flatbed trucking jobs are designed to ensure the safety and security of your goods, with features such as tie-downs and protective covers that prevent shifting or damage during transit.

3. Efficiency

A flatbed truck driver is able to transport large or heavy cargo more quickly and efficiently than other forms of transportation, making them an ideal choice for businesses that need to ship goods on a tight timeline.

What Type of Flatbed Shipping Is Best to Use?

There are different types of flatbed trucks to choose from, each with its own advantages and limitations.

If you’re looking for a flatbed trucker that is shipping containers then you must choose a Flatbed Bulk Truck. These trucks have a capacity of up to 90, 000 pounds and are designed specifically for moving large or heavy items, such as shipping containers.

If you need to ship smaller items, but still want the flexibility and efficiency of flatbed trucking, then you may want to consider using an Extendable Flatbed Truck. These trucks can be equipped with extension decks that increase their cargo capacity, making them ideal for shorter shipments of smaller items.

What to Know Before Shipping Flatbeds?

When choosing a flatbed trucking service, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you get the best value for your money and your specific shipping needs. Some of the key factors to consider include:

1. Size and Capacity

One of the most important considerations when choosing from the different flatbed truckers is the size and capacity of the vehicle. Flatbed freight trucks come in a wide range of sizes and capacities, so it is important to choose one that best meets your needs.

2. Location and Region

Another factor to consider when choosing a flatbed trucking service is the location and region where you will be shipping goods. Flatbed trucks are commonly used for regional shipments, and may not be suitable for long-distance transport.

3. Services Offered

You should also consider the specific services offered by different flatbed trucking companies. Some common services that you may need include loading and unloading assistance, climate control, and tracking and monitoring of your shipments. Choosing a company that can offer all of the services you need will help ensure that your shipment arrives safely and on time.

Legal Flatbed Overhang

Flatbed overhangs are defined as the parts of a loaded flatbed trailer that extend beyond the rear wheels of a truck and can potentially impact other vehicles on the road. These limits vary based on factors such as the length, width, and height of the cargo being transported.

To avoid potential legal issues or accidents on the road, it is important to be aware of any required overhang limits for your flatbed shipping needs.

1. 48-Foot Flatbed Overhang

The legal overhang limit for a 48-foot flatbed truck is typically 12 feet. This means that the end of your cargo should be no more than 12 feet from the back wheels of your truck. If you have cargo that exceeds this limit, be sure to consult with your flatbed shipping company to discuss any additional requirements or restrictions that may apply.

2. 53-Foot Flatbed Overhang

For 53-foot flatbeds, the legal overhang limit is typically 13 feet. This means that your cargo should not extend beyond the front wheels of your truck by more than 13 feet.

Can I Front Overhang on a Flatbed Trailer?

There is no absolute answer to this question, as front overhang limits vary based on a number of factors.

In general, however, most flatbed trailer manufacturers will not allow for any front overhang at all. This is because front overhangs can interfere with the safety and stability of your truck, potentially leading to accidents or other issues on the road.

If you have cargo that will exceed your flatbed truck’s front overhang limit, it is important to consult with a flatbed shipping company first to ensure that your shipment can be transported safely and legally.

Can I Load End-to-End and Have a Legal Overhang?

End-to-end loading may or may not be permitted, depending on a variety of variables. But generally speaking, this kind of freight transportation is not advised or permitted by the majority of flatbed shipping companies. This is due to the possibility of accidents or other problems on the road.

It is best to speak with a flatbed shipping business first if you intend to load your cargo end to end and need to make sure that it is legal. They may assist in evaluating your requirements and determining whether this kind of cargo will be secure and in compliance with all relevant rules and laws.

Find the Transportation Provider You Deserve

ValueTruck is one of the leading flatbed trucking providers, offering high-quality services at competitive prices. Whether you need freight shipping from Texas to Massachusetts or California to Arizona, our experienced team is here to help.

With a commitment to customer satisfaction and safety on the road, we are confident that we can deliver the transportation solution you deserve.

Contact us today to learn more about our flatbed trucking and shipping services, and get started on your next shipment with the best in the business!

Shipping Location

ValueTruck is a leading provider of flatbed trucking and freight shipping services, with locations across the United States.

1. Freight Shipping from Texas to Massachusetts

We offer a variety of freight shipping services, including reliable and affordable transportation from Texas to Massachusetts. Our experienced team will work with you to ensure that your shipment is handled quickly and efficiently, so you can get your cargo where it needs to be without any hassle or delays.

2. Freight Shipping from California to Arizona

We also offer freight shipping from California to Arizona, allowing you to transport your goods quickly and safely across the US with California to Arizona truck companies. No matter where you’re located or what your needs are, we have the solution that’s right for you.