Flatbed Freight Defined

Flatbed freight refers to transporting goods that are not easily transported in a standard enclosed trailer due to their size, shape, or weight. This type of freight is loaded onto a flatbed trailer, which is an open deck without sides or a roof, providing the flexibility needed to accommodate oversized or irregularly shaped items. At One Freight Broker, we specialize in coordinating flatbed freight shipments for various industries, ensuring that even the most challenging loads are delivered safely and efficiently.

Flatbed shipping is ideal for transporting cargo that doesn’t fit in the traditional enclosure of a dry van, requires side loading, or exceeds the dimensions of standard trailers. Our flatbeds are designed to accommodate a range of loading methods, including cranes and forklifts, allowing for efficient loading from all sides.

 

Advantages of Choosing Flatbed Shipping For Oversized Freight

Flatbed shipping with One Freight Broker offers unparalleled dimensional flexibility for oversized freight, eliminating the constraints of physical walls. This method allows for loading from the top, back, and sides, enhancing the efficiency of handling large and awkwardly shaped items. Our fleet includes a variety of flatbed equipment, such as step decks, double drops, and RGNs, to cater to every unique shipping need.

Exploring Flatbed Equipment Our diverse range of flatbed trailers includes:

  • Standard Flatbed Trailers: The go-to solution for a wide array of general freight and oversized loads, featuring an open deck for easy access and loading.
  • Step Deck Trailers: Ideal for taller cargo, offering varied deck heights to accommodate height restrictions without sacrificing load capacity.
  • Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers: Perfect for heavy equipment, these trailers feature a detachable front for effortless loading and unloading.
  • Double Drop Trailers: Best suited for exceptionally tall items, providing a low center deck for increased clearance.
  • Curtain Side Flatbed Trailers: Offering the flexibility of flatbed loading with the added protection of retractable side curtains.

 

Expert Tips for Flatbed Shipping

Knowledge is power when it comes to flatbed shipping. Understanding the specifics of your freight, including weight, dimensions, and special handling requirements, is crucial. Familiarizing yourself with the different types of trailers ensures you select the most cost-effective and safe option for your cargo.

 

Why One Freight Broker Stands Out

Our commitment to reliability and efficiency has positioned us as a leading provider in the flatbed shipping sector. We pride ourselves on handling everything from heavy machinery to construction materials, servicing all sizes and types across the United States and Canada. With One Freight Broker, you’re guaranteed a seamless shipping experience, backed by:

  • Fast Dispatch: We ensure a trailer is always ready for your shipping needs, anywhere, anytime.
  • Transparency: Our experienced team handles potential issues proactively, eliminating surprises.
  • Expedited Delivery: Our network is equipped for urgent deliveries, ensuring your freight reaches its destination swiftly.

 

Navigating Flatbed Freight Shipping Challenges

Leverage our expertise to navigate the open deck capacity network efficiently. Our vetted, high-quality carriers and in-depth market insights ensure cost-efficient shipping decisions and increased reliability. Whether it’s oversized loads, hazardous materials, or specialized equipment, One Freight Broker has a tailored solution.

 

When to Opt for Flatbed Shipping

Flatbed shipping is the answer for freight over 750 pounds, bulky items requiring side loading, or oversized shipments that don’t fit in enclosed trailers. It’s the preferred choice for heavy machinery, construction materials, and more, providing versatility and accessibility for a wide range of shipping needs.

 

What is the most common flatbed freight? The most common flatbed freight includes heavy machinery, construction materials, large equipment, steel coils, lumber, and oversized items that exceed the dimensions of standard trailers. These items require the open space and versatility of a flatbed trailer for safe and effective transportation.

What Industries Use Flatbed Freight?

Several key industries rely on flatbed freight for their shipping needs, including:

  • Construction: For transporting lumber, steel beams, concrete blocks, and construction equipment.
  • Manufacturing: For moving large machinery, industrial components, and pre-fabricated parts.
  • Energy: Especially the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, for transporting drilling equipment, wind turbine components, and pipelines.
  • Agriculture: For heavy machinery like tractors and combines, as well as irrigation equipment.
  • Automotive: For transporting vehicles, parts, and oversized automotive components.

 

Choose One Freight Broker for Your Flatbed Shipping Needs

With One Freight Broker, you benefit from comprehensive market insights, transparent pricing, and a single point of contact for all your shipping requirements. Our dedication to understanding the intricacies of freight transport ensures your cargo is in expert hands. Contact us today to experience the pinnacle of flatbed shipping services.

 

 
 
 
author avatar
Doug Fox Co-Founder & President
Doug Fox, is a graduate of Grand Valley State University. Doug has been in the shipping and logistics industry since 2006. Doug started Test Drive after seeing a void in the industry as shippers and carriers were both looking for ways to increase revenue and reduce costs.