What is Flatbed Shipping?
Unlike dry van shipping, flatbed shipping is for goods that do not require a cover or protection from outside elements. Such goods are not docked into a trailer as they do not fit into the standard trailer dimensions. Therefore, flatbed shipping is preferred because of dimensional flexibility.
According to the experts at Hale Trailer, “A good quality flatbed is a must-have for any shipping company due to its versatility and easy loading process. Flatbeds sit low to the ground and can carry loads that stand up to 8’6” high.”
Flatbed Shipping Facts You Should Know
Standard Measures of a Flat Bed
The type of cargo that can be shipped using flatbed shipping depends on the size and weight of the container. The most common type of flatbed shipping is the Pullman. This is a container that can accommodate 8-10 pallets. The pallets can be stacked and secured using straps, webbing, or chains.
The standard dimensions for a flatbed shipping container are: Length: 200′ (61m) Width: 40′ (12m) Height: 20′ (6m) or 8′ (2.4m). Flatbed containers can carry up to 10 pallets, with each pallet holding up to 2 tons in weight.
Uses
A typical flatbed shipping container is used to transport household items and other commercial goods such as furniture, electronics, and vehicles. However, it is not uncommon for you to find large equipment shipped in flatbed containers such as cranes and forklifts. In addition, flatbed shipping containers are used to ship all types of cargo, including food and beverages, as well as hazardous or toxic materials.
Customization
The flatbed shipping container has the ability to be customized for your specific needs. You can customize the interior and exterior of a flatbed shipping container by adding windows, doors, and ramps. The flatbed shipping container can also be custom-built to meet your specific requirements. If you need a flatbed shipping container specifically designed for transporting heavy equipment, you should look into hiring a custom-built flatbed shipping container company.
Flatbeds and Weather
A flatbed shipping container is a very durable piece of equipment. However, it is important to note that a flatbed shipping container is not designed to be used in bad weather. For example, if you need a flatbed shipping container for transporting heavy equipment in the winter months, then you should look into hiring a company that offers a custom-built flatbed shipping container.
The Merits of Using Flatbeds
As mentioned earlier, the main advantage of using a flatbed shipping container is its ability to transport large loads over long distances without damage or degradation of the cargo. In addition, this type of cargo can quickly be loaded onto rail cars or trucks without the need for additional cranes or forklifts.
However, a flatbed trailer can be expensive. The cost of flatbed trailer rentals varies depending on the size of the trailer, the type of work you need to transport, and your location. You should also look into hiring a flatbed shipping container if you need to transport products or materials that are too heavy for regular freight trucks.
Over-dimensional Freight
If you need to transport heavy equipment, you should hire a flatbed shipping container. For example, if you need to transport a large piece of machinery or an entire set of furniture, you should look into renting a flatbed shipping container.
