Flatbeds trailers

Types of Flatbeds Trailers

Flatbed trailers are used to transport cargo that is too big or heavy to be moved using a standard vehicle. They are open trailers that lack sidewalls or roofs, making loading and offloading the trailer easy from any side. Flatbeds trailers have different configurations and sizes to cater to a variety of transportation needs. Here are some common types of flatbeds trailers:

• Conventional Flatbed Trailers

  Conventional flatbed trailers are the most common types. They have a flat and level loading surface. These trailers can be made of steel or aluminum. Aluminum trailers are lighter and more resistant to corrosion. Conventional flatbed trailers are often used to carry building materials, machinery, and large equipment.

• Step Deck Trailers

  Step deck trailers, also known as double drop trailers, have two levels. They are designed with a raised front deck and a lower rear deck. The height difference creates a slope that makes loading and unloading easy. The trailers are mostly used to transport tall cargo that cannot fit on a standard flatbed. Common step deck trailer loads include construction equipment, large machinery, and oversized pipes.

• Lowboy Trailers

  Lowboy trailers are a type of flatbed trailer that is designed with a fully enclosed deck that is low to the ground. The low height provides easy loading and unloading, especially for tall equipment. Lowboy trailers are commonly used to transport construction equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, and aerial lifts.

• Gooseneck Trailers

  Gooseneck trailers are designed to be towed with a gooseneck hitch, which is mounted in the truck bed. This design allows for better stability and control compared to other hitch types. Gooseneck trailers have a raised front that can extend over the towing vehicle. They are suitable for hauling heavy loads. Gooseneck trailers come in various sizes and types, including models with solid sides or removable side rails.

• Tilt Bed Trailers

  Tilt bed trailers have a loading surface that can tilt, turning into a ramp. The tilting mechanism simplifies loading and unloading, especially for wheeled equipment. The trailers are suitable for transporting vehicles, construction equipment, and motorcycles.

• Equipment Trailers

  Equipment trailers are designed with built-in loading ramps, making them perfect for transporting construction equipment, vehicles, and heavy machinery.

• Specialized Trailers

  Some flatbed trailers are custom-built for specific industries. For instance, logging trailers are designed for transporting timber, while car hauler trailers are built for transporting vehicles.

Specifications and Maintenance of Flatbeds Trailers

Flatbed trailers are essential equipment in the trucking and transportation industry, and understanding their specifications is vital for effective use and maintenance.

• Load Capacity

  Flatbed trailers have varying weight capacities, including 48,000 lb. to 60,000 lb. distributed weight and 10,000 lb. to 15,000 lb. for a freight load. The freight load itself can be as heavy as 10,000 lb. to 12,000 lb. as it consists of various materials such as concrete, steel, lumber, machinery, and more.

• Dimensions

  A flatbed trailer generally measures between 48 feet to 53 feet in length and 8 feet in width. However, the height of a flatbed trailer can differ depending on the design and model, with an average height of 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 4 inches. Flatbed trailers also have a weight that ranges from 12,000 to 15,000 pounds.

• Tire Size

  Flatbed trailers tire sizes vary according to the model. The tires measure 22.5 inches to 24.5 inches in diameter and 8.25 inches to 10 inches in width. Each flatbed trailer has four to six tires, and the tire pressure usually ranges from 100 to 110 psi.

• Axle Size

  The flatbed trailer axles have a size of 10 inches in diameter, measuring 2,000 pounds to 3,500 pounds for the axle capacity. Each trailer also has two to three axles. In addition, the axle spacing differs, with an average distance of 4 feet to 5 feet between axles.

• Braking System

  The braking system consists of disc brakes that enable a quick and safe stop. The brake size is about 12 inches to 16 inches in diameter, and the braking force is between 30,000 pounds to 50,000 pounds. In addition, the braking distance for flatbed trailers is about 100 to 150 feet.

• Suspension System

  The suspension system plays a vital role in the flatbed trailer as it provides stability and support while transporting goods. The trailers have leaf spring suspensions that measure 26 inches to 30 inches in height and have an average load capacity of 10,000 pounds to 15,000 pounds. The suspension also has a damping force of 1,000 pounds to 2,000 pounds.

While the specifications of flatbed trailers differ, they also have general maintenance requirements that are easy to follow. Here are some of them:

• 1. Regular Inspection: Flatbed trailers should be inspected regularly. Users can do a visual inspection before and after each use to check for damages, cracks, or wear and tear. The tires, axles, brakes, and suspension systems should be looked at closely.
• 2. Tire Maintenance: Flatbed trailer tire pressure should be checked once a week to ensure they are inflated to the right PSI. In addition, the tire treads should be looked at to see if there are any damages or uneven wear and tear patterns. Flatbed trailer tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,000 miles to ensure they wear evenly.
• 3. Lubrication: The moving parts of the flatbed trailers, like the axles and suspension systems, should be lubricated every 10,000 miles or at least once every six months. Proper lubrication reduces friction between the moving parts and prevents wear and tear.
• 4. Brake Maintenance: Flatbed trailer brake pads and discs should be inspected every 10,000 miles. Users should replace the brake pads if they are worn out or damaged. In addition, the brake pads should be adjusted or replaced to prevent uneven wear and tear.
• 5. Load Distribution: Flatbed trailers come with load capacity that should not be exceeded. The load should be distributed evenly across the trailer to prevent accidents, damages, or instability during transportation.
• 6. Cleaning: The flatbed trailer should be cleaned regularly, especially after harsh weather conditions. Debris, dirt, and grime should be removed from the trailer, including its moving parts, to prevent damages or wear and tear.

How to choose flatbeds trailers

It’s a no-brainer that choosing the right flatbed trailer for a business is a crucial decision. The trailer chosen will affect productivity, efficiency, and safety. Here are some things to consider before purchasing a flatbed trailer:

• Load Capacity:

  Every trailer has a load limit that is defined. This limit should be considered before purchasing a flatbed trailer. It’s important to calculate the total weight of the goods that will be transported. This includes the weight of the cargo and the possible weight increase that may arise in the course of transportation. The selected trailer should have a load capacity that is equal to or greater than the calculated value.

• Trailer Size:

  Consider the size of the flatbed trailer before purchasing it. The size should correspond to the dimensions of the cargo that is to be transported. Also, consider the route that will be used for transportation. If it’s a narrow road, a smaller trailer will be more efficient.

• Construction Material:

  Flatbed trailers are constructed with different materials. Some are made with steel, aluminum, or a combination of both. Each material has its own unique advantage. For instance, aluminum is corrosion-resistant. It is a good choice for areas that have high moisture content. Steel, on the other hand, is a good choice for heavy-duty applications.

• Axles:

  Consider the number of axles the trailer has. This is because the number of axles affects the stability and the load capacity of the trailer. A trailer with more axles will have a greater load capacity and more stability during transportation. However, it will be more difficult to maneuver.

• Suspension System:

  Flatbed trailers come with different suspension systems. Some are designed with a leaf spring suspension system, while others are designed with an air ride suspension system. The leaf spring suspension system is more common among flatbed trailers. This is because they are durable and more affordable.

• Tie-down Points:

  The flatbed trailer should have enough tie-down points. These points are useful for securing cargo during transportation. The tie-down points help prevent the cargo from shifting while in transit. They also help reduce the risk of damage to the cargo.

How to DIY and Replace Flatbeds Trailers

Here is how to DIY and replace flatbed trailers:

• Safety precautions:

  Safety precautions are essential before any DIY trailer repair. The trailer needs to be parked on a flat surface, and warning triangles or cones must be placed around it. The trailer should never be worked on while it is being towed. The weight of the trailer must be lifted using a jack that is in good condition and on a solid, level surface. Before beginning any work, ensure that the flatbed trailer is properly supported with safety stands after being jacked up.

• Tire replacement:

  When replacing a tire, the following steps should be done: Secure the flatbed trailer with wheel chocks, loosen the lug nuts slightly, raise the trailer with a jack, and fully remove the lug nuts and replace the damaged tire with a spare. Once the spare tire is in place, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern and lower the trailer.

• Brake maintenance:

  When maintaining brakes, the following should be done: The brake components should be inspected for wear and tear. This includes the brake pads, brake discs, brake drums, and brake linings. The brake pads should be replaced if they show signs of wear. In the case of brake fluid leaks, the brake hoses should be replaced. The brake hoses should be replaced every four years as a preventative measure. The brake calipers should be cleaned and lubricated to ensure smooth operation.

• Wiring and lighting:

  Wire connections should be checked for security and wear and replaced if damaged. The trailer's lights should be tested to ensure they function. This includes the taillights, turn signals, and brake lights. If the lights are not working, the bulbs should be replaced. The wiring harness should be inspected for damage and replaced if necessary.

• Axle and suspension:

  The axle and suspension should be checked for damage. This includes the leaf springs, spring hangers, shackles, and the axle. The leaf springs should be replaced if they show signs of sagging or cracking. The spring hangers and shackles should be replaced if they are worn or damaged. The axle should be replaced if bent or damaged.

• Trailer deck replacement:

  To replace a trailer deck, the old decking material needs to be removed. The trailer's surface should be cleaned and prepared. After that, new decking material should be installed and secured according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Q&A

Q1: What are ""flatbed trailers"" for trucks?

A1: A flatbed trailer is a type of truck trailer with a flat, unobstructed, and level surface for loading cargo. Flatbed trailers are designed for easy loading and unloading of goods from all sides because they lack sidewalls and overhead barriers.

Q2: What are the benefits of flatbed trailers?

A2: Flatbed trailers have several advantages, including their adaptability to carry various loads, such as construction materials, machinery, and large or oversized items. They also have a simple design that provides a large and unobstructed loading surface, making it easy to load and unload cargo from all sides.

Q3: Who uses flatbed trailers?

A3: Flatbed trailers are commonly used in industries such as construction, logistics, and transportation, as well as in agriculture, where transporting large and oversized equipment and materials is required.