What Is Flatbed Freight Shipping?
Flatbed freight shipping is a specialized type of cargo shipment. The uniqueness arises due to the nature of the load that is not definite. Typically, when hauling flatbed freight the cargo fits in the stipulated place in ships. Flatbed cargo is typically not well suited for transport within the enclosed confines of a dry van trailer. It is this basic necessity that makes the open design of a flatbed trailer indispensable for flatbed freight shipping. Unlike other types of freight shipments, flatbed freight has many requirements and challenges that only a flatbed truck can accommodate.
How Do You Load And Offload Flatbed Freight?
Loading and offloading flatbed freight can be a complex process. Sometimes loading and offloading flatbed freight is very easy, other times not. Loading or unloading flatbed freight that is challenging requires a high level of experience and expertise. Many times the flatbed freight is unloaded with cranes due to the weight or size of the cargo. As a result, cranes can often be rented for the unloading process, rigging crews are specialist that the crane company provides.
What Are The Dimensions Of A Flatbed Trailer?
When you have a need for flatbed freight shipping it is essential to find the right type of flatbed trailer. There are various flatbed type trailers that have unique characteristics. The standard length of many flatbed trailers ranges from 48ft to 53ft. The width is approximately 102 inches (8’6) to accommodate cargo of all sizes and shapes. Consequently, the height of a standard flatbed is approximately 60″ from the floor to deck. A flatbed truck can, therefore, accommodate freight that is very high, as high as 8’6″. Examples of flatbed freight shipping trailers include:
• step decks
• flatbeds
• double drops
Things You Need To Know When Dealing with Flatbed Freight Shipping
1. Use A Freight Broker
Seeking the professional help of a freight broker is critical especially if you are new to flatbed freight shipping. The solution a freight broker provides saves you a lot of time and hassle. Freight brokers provide the expertise and that make flatbed freight shipping much more pleasant.
2. Know The Specifics Of Your Cargo
- Knowing and understanding your cargo is the initial step in dealing with a flatbed freight shipment. Accurate information is crucial to help assess and make decisions on how to ship the load.
The nature of the merchandise determines whether you need to tarp your cargo or not. Securing a flatbed shipment is always required. - Assess the value of your load. Sometimes if the package has a very high worth, it’s good to make sure you have insurance. Insurance assists you to provide coverage for your commodity for any uncertainties that can occur.
- The dimensions and the weight of your load must be within the legal limits. Make sure your shipment does not go beyond the stipulated limit. You can take corrective action like reducing your weight. The precaution saves you the time you would spend trying fixing the issue after the shipment is in transit. If your shipment requires permits the DOT has information to help obtain the correct permits to provide for safe shipping.
3. How Do I Obtain The Best Flatbed Freight Shipping Quote?
A flatbed freight shipping quote is the same as a traditional freight quote. Many times a freight broker can provide the best freight quote due in part to their relationship with many flatbed trucking companies. As mentioned earlier having the specific requirements at hand when requesting a flatbed quote is vital. If you are a seasoned shipper then understanding seasonal demands for flatbed trucks puts you at an advantage. A flatbed freight shipping quote in places like Georgia or Florida in late spring or summer is more expensive than in other seasons.
