Service
Flatbed Shipping
Flatbed trailers allow loading from the side, rear, or overhead by crane. They are the standard for building materials, steel, and equipment that cannot fit in a van.
Key specs at a glance
- Deck length
- 48 - 53 ft
- Deck height
- 60 in
- Legal max weight
- 48,000 lbs
- Legal max width
- 8 ft 6 in
When to use flatbed shipping
- Steel and metals
- Lumber and building products
- Machinery and equipment
- Crane- or forklift-loaded freight
What it costs and what drives the rate
Rates on flatbed shipping move with lane balance, fuel, seasonality, and how much notice you give. Freight booked three or more days out consistently prices lower than same-day coverage on the same lane. Accessorials such as liftgate, driver assist, detention, and tarping are quoted separately, and we list them on the rate confirmation rather than surprising you on the invoice.
The fastest way to a firm number is a complete freight description: origin and destination ZIP, commodity, weight, dimensions or pallet count, and the pickup window.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need tarps?
Tarps are required for freight that must be protected from weather — lumber, drywall, finished machinery. Steel coils and pipe often ship untarped. Tarping adds cost and load time.
Who is responsible for securement?
The carrier is legally responsible under FMCSA cargo securement rules, but shippers should provide dunnage and blocking points.
Related pages
Other services
Equipment
Industries using this service
Get a flatbed shipping quote
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.