To safeguard against damages and allow it to work with maximum efficiency, the right flatbed size is very important. A wrong or misfit Flatbed Truck size can cause stability issues, reduce the available payload capacity, and, indeed, create legal problems. The ideal kind of flatbed that you would haul with your truck is dependent on what you are pulling; it is important to know how to determine the flatbed size that can offer you the best performance with your truck.
If you are new to that field or not good at measuring flatbed truck length, this blog is for you. In this article we will bring forth all the guidelines that would help you in this regard. First of all, let us see why the right size matters for your ease of functioning.
Why Choosing the Right Flatbed Size Matters?
The size of the flatbed you choose for your truck determines truck efficiency, safety, and profitability. When it is of the right size you get the following major perks:
- Even weight distribution
- Less fuel consumption
- Complying with transportation rules
Often oversized or undersized flatbeds can cause loading issues, thus making your hauling a less efficient and a more risky affair.
How to Determine the Right Flatbed Size for Your Truck
As now you know that how much important it is to have the right flatbed truck length for your business, here are some tips on how to determine it:
Consider Your Truck’s Payload Capacity
The payload capacity for every truck is determined by its ability to carry safe weight. If things go wrong, exceeding this per vehicle limit can put strain on the suspension, brakes and tires of the vehicle, potentially creating a mechanical problem or safety issue. It is recommended to check your truck’s manual and with your manufacturer’s specifications making sure the flatbed size meets the weight capacity of your truck.
Check the Type of Cargo You Will Haul
Depending on the size and type of the cargo, the required flatbed dimensions vary. Longer flatbed is required if you regularly transport long, bulky items such as steel beams or lumber. However, smaller cargo may require only a compact flatbed. Choose the one which best suits your particular hauling needs.
Measure Your Truck’s Chassis Length
The length of the chassis also determines which flatbed will be best to use. To have an accurate idea of available space, measure from behind to the rear axle. Flatbed sizes usually vary from 8 feet to 24 feet and larger sizes are available for heavy duty trucks.
Check State and Federal Regulations
Commercial truck size is regulated by different size regulations depending on the state. Check if your flatbed meets legal length, width and height restraints. Fines, penalties and safety hazards on the road can occur if it overloads or exceeds the related legal dimensions.
Factor in Loading and Unloading Requirements
There are several kinds or styles of flatbeds:
- Standard
- Gooseneck
- Drop deck
The type of cargo you will be loading and unloading also plays a pivotal role in deciding upon the type of frame of the flatbed. If the deck height in front is high or if you require easy access from multiple angles, a low lower deck height or side access option should be considered.
Common Flatbed Sizes and Their Uses
For your convenience here are some flatbed sizes that will help you on deciding which length to choose:
Standard 8-Foot Flatbed
This is a very compact size that is best for small hauls and for working in light duty trucks. It does a good job of transport tools, small equipment and local deliveries.
12-Foot Flatbed
A mid-sized option suitable for medium-duty trucks. Taking moderate loaded up items, for example, development materials, furniture, or bulk supplies.
16- to 18-Foot Flatbed
It finds wide use for any general freight, farm equipment and oversized cargo. It offers a good compromise between capacity and maneuverability.
20- to 24-Foot Flatbed Truck Length
Catered towards large trucks and a heavy duty choice. For hauling with commercial, transporting machinery and long distance freight, it is most commonly used.
Gooseneck and Drop Deck Flatbeds
These special options give additional stability and better weight balance on oversized or heavy cargo. Usually, they are used in the industrial as well as agricultural applications.
Where to Find the Right Flatbed for Your Truck
The following guidelines would probably help you in this regard:
Buying from Manufacturers and Dealers
New flatbeds available for specific truck models are made by truck manufacturers and authorized dealers. However a dealer can eliminate some question of compatibility and ensure quality at a price.
Purchasing Used Flatbeds
The cost saving for truck owners as the used flatbeds are available at an economical rate. However, go ahead and check out flatbeds online from marketplaces, truck auctions and local sellers that are well maintained at cheap prices.
Custom Flatbeds
If you need a flatbed truck for hauling that is unique to your requirements, you may want to explore getting a custom built flatbed. Flatbeds are designed by many fabrication shops to suit one specific truck model and cargo requirements.
Renting Flatbeds
Renting a flat bed is often a practical option for temporary hauling needs. Flatbed rental companies have different flatbed sizes enabling you to test various options before making a purchase.
Why is the Right Truck Dispatching Partner Important for Your Flatbed?
After all that essential decision making, you need to find the right dispatcher for your flatbed truck just as much as you need to find the right size. Truck owners connect with high paying loads from the best and most reliable freight connections on Dispatch Street. They have an experienced and professional team of dispatchers who take care of logistics, get you the best rate you can, and maintain your truck profitably. Waiting for loads to load, searching, going to the agent’s office gets tiring so let Dispatch Street do it for you.
