Equipment
Flatbed
Use a flatbed when freight cannot fit through a van door, needs crane loading, or exceeds van dimensions but stays under 8 ft 6 in tall.
Dimensions and limits
- Deck length
- 48-53 ft
- Deck height
- 60 in
- Max legal width
- 8 ft 6 in
- Max payload
- 48,000 lbs
Pros and cons
Advantages
- Load from any side
- Crane and forklift friendly
- Handles overhang
Limitations
- Requires tarping for weather-sensitive goods
- Securement adds load time
- Height limited to ~8'6"
Freight examples
- Steel plate and coil
- Lumber
- Pipe
- Construction equipment
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum height for a flatbed load?
About 8 ft 6 in of freight on a 60 in deck to stay under the 13 ft 6 in legal limit.
Are straps or chains required?
Chains for machinery and steel; straps for lumber and packaged goods. FMCSA rules set the minimum tiedown count.
Related pages
Other equipment
Related services
Book flatbed capacity
Send us the lane, commodity, weight, and pickup window. You will get a firm rate and confirmed capacity, usually within the hour during business hours.