What is a Flatbed Truck? A Complete Guide to Flatbed Transportation

Flatbed trucks are open-deck trailers used to transport oversized, heavy, or irregular freight. Learn types, uses, legal rules, and securement steps.

Written by: Andrew Brooks

Edited by: Matrack Inc

Updated: 04/21/25 | Published: 04/21/25

Key Takeaways:

Flatbed truck is an open-deck vehicle used to haul oversized, heavy, or irregular cargo not suitable for enclosed trailers.
There are six main types of flatbed trucks, each designed with specific deck configurations for different freight sizes and shapes.
Flatbed trucks are essential in industries like construction, energy, and logistics where fast, flexible loading is required.
To safely transport cargo, flatbed trucking must follow legal regulations, proper securement steps, and match the trailer to the freight.

What Is Considered a Flatbed Truck?

Flatbed truck is a type of commercial vehicle with a completely flat and open trailer. It doesn’t have any sides or a roof, which makes it easier to load and unload things from any direction, whether that’s from the top, sides, or back.

These trucks carry cargo that is oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped. Flatbed trucks are used when the cargo cannot fit inside enclosed trailers. The open design increases loading speed and improves access for equipment like cranes or forklifts.

What Are The Types Of Flatbed Trucks?

Standard Flatbed

Standard flatbed truck uses a single, flat main deck from front to rear. There are no raised or lowered sections, which makes it ideal for everyday cargo that doesn’t exceed height limits. It’s simple, reliable, and can be loaded from any side using forklifts or cranes.

Deck Configuration: Single continuous deck
Deck Length: 48 to 53 feet
Deck Width: 8.5 feet
Deck Height: 60 inches from the ground
Cargo Height Capacity: Up to 8.5 feet
Max Freight Weight: 48,000 pounds
Best Used For: Lumber, steel pipes, packaged freight

Step Deck (Drop Deck)

Step deck, or drop deck, has two levels: an upper front deck and a lower rear main deck. The lower deck sits closer to the ground, allowing the transport of taller cargo without exceeding legal height limits. It’s perfect for freight that stands too tall for a standard flatbed.

Upper Deck Length: 10 to 11 feet
Lower Deck Length: 37 to 43 feet
Deck Width: 8.5 feet
Upper Deck Height: 58 to 60 inches
Lower Deck Height: 38 to 42 inches
Cargo Height Capacity: Up to 10 feet
Max Freight Weight: 46,000 pounds
Best Used For: Tall machinery, crates, heavy palletized loads

Double Drop Deck

Double drop deck includes three segments: a short front deck, a low center well, and a raised rear deck. The well, or middle deck, sits very low, allowing the highest cargo clearance of all trailer types. This is the right choice for extra-tall or oddly shaped equipment.

Front Deck Length: 10 to 12 feet
Center Well Length: 25 to 29 feet
Rear Deck Length: 8 to 10 feet
Deck Width: 8.5 feet
Center Well Height: 18 to 22 inches
Cargo Height Capacity: Up to 11.5 feet
Max Freight Weight: 45,000 pounds
Best Used For: Transformers, generators, tall construction equipment

Removable Gooseneck (RGN)

RGN trailer lets you detach the gooseneck front to create a loading ramp. It typically includes a deep center well and a short rear deck. The detachable feature makes it ideal for loading heavy equipment that can’t be lifted, like bulldozers or tractors.

Gooseneck Front Length: 8 to 10 feet
Center Well Length: 25 to 29 feet
Rear Deck Length: 8 to 10 feet
Deck Width: 8.5 feet
Center Well Height: 18 inches
Cargo Height Capacity: Up to 11.5 feet
Max Freight Weight: 42,000 to 80,000 pounds (depending on axles)
Best Used For: Drive-on equipment, construction and mining machines

Extendable Flatbed

Extendable flatbed, or stretch trailer, has a sliding deck that can extend in length. This is useful when transporting extremely long freight that would otherwise hang off the edge of a standard trailer. It has a single level and behaves like a standard flatbed, just longer.

Collapsed Deck Length: 48 feet
Extended Deck Length: Up to 80 feet
Deck Width: 8.5 feet
Deck Height: 60 inches
Cargo Height Capacity: Up to 8.5 feet
Max Freight Weight: 43,000 pounds
Best Used For: Beams, windmill blades, construction trusses

Sidekit Flatbed

Sidekit flatbed uses a base flatbed trailer but adds removable side panels and a tarp system. It’s designed for carrying loose bulk goods that need protection but don’t require full enclosure. The frame and tarp shield cargo from wind and rain during transit.

Deck Configuration: Single deck with side posts and tarp
Deck Length: 48 to 53 feet
Deck Width: 8.5 feet
Deck Height: 60 inches
Cargo Height Capacity: 8.5 feet under tarp
Max Freight Weight: 45,000 pounds
Best Used For: Agricultural goods, gravel bags, scrap material

What Can Flatbed Trucks Transport?

Flatbed trucks transport a wide range of cargo that does not fit inside enclosed trailers. Typical flatbed loads include:

Construction materials: Lumber, rebar, drywall, bricks
Heavy machinery: Excavators, bulldozers, tractors
Steel products: Coils, pipes, I-beams
Vehicles: Military vehicles, buses, aircraft parts
Agricultural products: Hay bales, farm equipment
Prefabricated structures: Modular homes, scaffolding

Because flatbed trucks offer open access, they reduce the need for packaging and simplify delivery for non-standard freight.

Industries That Use Flatbed Trucks

Flatbed trucks serve at least 5 major industries:

Construction: Delivers raw materials to building sites.
Manufacturing: Moves machinery and industrial parts.
Energy: Transports turbines, generators, and oilfield equipment.
Agriculture: Carries harvested goods and large implements.
Logistics: Bridges transportation gaps for multi-modal shipping.

In each of these industries, flatbed trucks increase load efficiency, reduce delays, and support last-mile delivery.

Advantages vs. Limitations of Flatbed Trucks

Advantages	Limitations
Load from any direction	No protection from weather
Carry oversized freight	Higher risk of theft
Handle heavy cargo	Must meet strict tie-down rules
Faster loading/unloading	Requires trained or licensed drivers
Less packaging needed	Needs tarps or covers for loose items

What Are The Legal Regulations for Flatbed Trucking?

FMCSA Load Securement Rules

Flatbed cargo must follow the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for tie-downs. These rules define the minimum number and strength of tie-downs based on the cargo’s weight, size, and length. Carriers must use approved chains, straps, and anchors to prevent cargo from shifting or falling.

Height and Width Limits

Flatbed loads must stay within legal dimension limits to operate without special permits.

Maximum legal height: 13.5 feet
Maximum legal width: 8.5 feet

Exceeding these dimensions requires obtaining oversize load permits and may involve restricted travel times or escort vehicles.

DOT Inspections

All flatbed trucks must pass regular Department of Transportation (DOT) inspections. These checks cover:

Brake systems
Lighting and reflectors
Load securement hardware
Tire condition and pressure
General trailer condition
These inspections prevent mechanical failures and ensure roadworthiness.

Driver Certification

Drivers operating flatbed trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 26,001 pounds must hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Additional endorsements may be required for hauling hazardous materials or operating multi-axle trailers. Proper fleet safety certification ensures the driver can safely manage complex loads and comply with state-specific transport rules.

How to Secure a Load on a Flatbed Truck?

Inspect the deck before loading to ensure it’s clean and dry.
Place cargo strategically to distribute weight evenly over axles.
Use load-rated straps or chains approved for weight category.
Attach to D-rings or anchor points without twisting or overlapping.
Use edge protectors to prevent strap damage or slipping.
Double-check tension and inspect throughout transit.
Use telematics systems to monitor load stability and securement alerts in real time.

When to Choose a Flatbed Truck?

Use a flatbed truck if the cargo meets at least three of these five conditions:

Too tall or wide for a dry van trailer
Loaded with a crane or forklift from the side or top
Does not require full enclosure
Needs to be moved urgently with minimal prep
Weighs more than 10,000 pounds and lacks regular shape

Choosing flatbed transportation increases adaptability and lowers delays for challenging shipments.

What Is The Difference Between Trailer And Flatbed?

Aspect	Flatbed Truck	Dry Van Trailer
Structure	Open deck	Enclosed box
Loading Access	Top, side, rear	Rear only
Cargo Type	Oversized, irregular, heavy	Palletized, boxed, standard
Weather Protection	None	Full enclosure
Speed of Loading	Faster due to open access	Slower, requires dock or ramp

Written by:

Andrew Brooks

Andrew is a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience in telematics technology and the trucking industry. His deep expertise encompasses the implementation and optimization of Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), fleet tracking systems, and comprehensive fleet management solutions. Throughout his career, Andrew has advised numerous transportation companies on compliance with the ELD mandate, enhancing operational efficiency through advanced telematics, and leveraging data-driven insights for strategic decision-making. Andrew’s experience includes leading initiatives that have streamlined fleet operations, improved safety metrics, and ensured adherence to regulatory standards across diverse fleets. He has also contributed his knowledge to the development of industry best practices, helping fleet managers and logistics professionals navigate the complexities of telematics integration and regulatory compliance. In addition to his industry work, Andrew has authored several authoritative articles on ELD technology, fleet tracking innovations, and the future of telematics in the trucking industry. His commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and delivering actionable insights has made him a trusted resource for professionals seeking to optimize their fleet operations. Andrew holds certifications in telematics systems management and has been recognized for his contributions to enhancing fleet safety and efficiency. His articles are widely respected for their depth of knowledge, practical advice, and focus on advancing the trucking industry through technology-driven solutions.