Flatbed Trailer Dimensions: Do You Know Your Capacity?

When you’re getting ready to buy or rent a trailer for hauling, it’s important to understand what trailer will enable you to get the job done. For flatbed hauling, this means understanding different flatbed trailer dimensions and capabilities. In this blog, we’re going to help you do just that.

At Pinnacle Trailers, we take great pride in equipping American haulers with the commercial trailers and service support they need for successful careers. Browse our inventory of available flatbed trailers today, then reach out to our team to schedule a time to check out the options in person. With the tips below, you’ll have a better idea of which flatbed trailer will be the best fit for your hauling goals.

What Are The Typical Dimensions Of A Flatbed Trailer?

First, let’s start with the basics. Flatbed trailers are anywhere from 45 to 53 feet in length from front to back, only counting the bed itself. However, they can be shorter. A standard width is 8.5 feet, and a standard height is 5 feet. 

These are the dimensions of a standard flatbed trailer, but there are many different types. Other styles include double-deckers and extendable flatbeds whose dimensions will differ greatly. We’ll explain more about what to consider when choosing between these styles of flatbed trailers later in this article.

What Is The Weight Capacity For A Flatbed Trailer?

When considering the capacity of a trailer, you want to consider the height of the load and the weight. 

A standard flatbed trailer with the typical dimensions we described can carry materials up to 8.5 feet tall. 

While the weight capacity of flatbed trailers can differ based on their axles, the standard weight limit that is allowed across the U.S. is 48,000 pounds, although they are rated for 65,000 pounds. This allowance can change based on the state, the type of flatbed trailer in use, and the distribution of the weight. 

How Do Dimensions and Weight Capacities Differ From Other Types Of Flatbeds?

A standard flatbed trailer with a weight capacity of up to 48,000 pounds is a great option for many open-air hauling jobs. But other styles of flatbed trailers with different dimensions are more popular across certain industries, including:

• Double-drop trailers: also known as “lowboys”, these trailers can carry taller loads of up to 12 feet. Their weight capacity is a little less than average, with a standard maximum allowance being 40,000 pounds.
• Extendable flatbed trailers: the decks of these trailers can extend up to 80 feet in length. Their weight capacity is the same as a standard trailer, so it is important to remember that the ability to haul longer items does not mean it can haul more weight.
• Step deck trailers: these are also called single-drop trailers and can carry taller loads like the lowboys. Their weight capacity is standard as well, with a maximum allowance of 48,000 pounds.

There are also specialty flatbed trailers for oversized hauling . These are the ones you see going down the highway, moving manufactured homes or yachts, with additional drivers helping guide them along the way. 

These can handle up to 200,000 pounds, but they require a lot of extra preparation and are only used for one-off tasks. The flatbed styles we described above handle most of the hauling across the country.

What Materials Are Hauled On A Flatbed Trailer?

It would be hard to list everything that you can haul on a flatbed trailer, as they can handle a large variety of cargo. Flatbed trailers are particularly popular in the construction industry for hauling lumber, large pipes, and steel beams.
   

What Shouldn’t Be Hauled On A Flatbed Trailer?

However, as flatbed trailers are open to the elements and do not have sides, they are not a great choice for hauling bulk and loose materials like gravel, grain, or mulch. 

They are rarely used to haul food and beverages, as these need more coverage and are easier to secure in a cargo trailer. Fragile items like glass or electronics also tend to travel better in trailers that offer more protection.

We Have the Flatbed Trailer You Need to Keep Hauling! Browse Pinnacle Trailer’s Inventory Today

Understanding flatbed trailer dimensions plays an important role in helping you choose the best trailer for your hauling needs. Whether you know which flatbed is right for you or you still need help deciding between different trailer types, we can help.

We keep a large inventory of both new and used commercial trailers on our lots. Every purchase or rental comes with our service support, where we offer repairs, tune-ups, and even trailer rentals from all four of our locations to keep you on the road. 

Ready to get hauling? Come browse our trailer inventory today.