What to know about flatbed trailers
Flatbed trailers are a commonly used type of trailer designed for transporting large, heavy, or oddly shaped loads. Unlike enclosed trailers, flatbed trailers have an open platform with no sides or roof, so they can be loaded easily and from any direction.
Uses of flatbed trailers
In agriculture, flatbed trailers are often used to transport large bales of hay or loads of crops. They are also used to transport heavy farm machinery, such as tractors or harvesters, which are too large or awkwardly shaped for transporting in enclosed trailers.
In construction, they carry equipment, scaffolding, or building materials to job sites. In logistics, they can handle items that need to be moved quickly over long distances. Their open design means a forklift or crane can load and unload from the sides, back, or above.
Keeping the load safe
Securing the load is essential when using flatbed trailers, as the absence of walls means there is nothing to contain the cargo within when going over bumps or on twisty roads. Each piece of cargo will need to be securely fastened in place to withstand the forces of transit, including sudden stops, turns, or accelerations
The operators must use appropriate tie-downs, straps, or chains to prevent things from shifting or falling off the trailer during transit. Specialist suppliers like autoandtrailer.com/shop/trailer-parts will be able to provide you with the trailer parts you need.
How Trucks Use Flatbed Trailers
The size and weight of the cargo decide what type of truck you need for hauling. For instance, if you need to transport large building materials or heavy machinery, a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) is needed. HGVs are built to carry large and heavy loads, whether it’s a short distance within a city or across the country. These trucks ensure that big and heavy cargo is transported safely and efficiently.
In conclusion, flatbed trailers are worth thinking about for transporting large, heavy, bulky or irregularly shaped loads. Their open platform design means they can be loaded and unloaded easily from any direction, making them ideal for industries such as agriculture and construction.
