Flatbed trucks are widely used in construction, manufacturing, and logistics because they can carry large and oversized cargo. If you’re planning to ship heavy equipment, building materials, or industrial goods, you might be wondering: how big is a flatbed truck and what can it carry?
This guide explains flatbed truck sizes, dimensions, and capacity in a simple and practical way.
What Is a Flatbed Truck?
A flatbed truck is a type of truck with a flat, open trailer bed and no sides or roof. This design allows easy loading and unloading of bulky items from any direction using cranes, forklifts, or ramps. Flatbeds are ideal for transporting heavy, oversized, or irregularly shaped cargo that wouldn’t fit inside an enclosed trailer.
Standard Flatbed Truck Dimensions
The size of a flatbed truck can vary depending on the type of trailer and regulations, but there are common standard dimensions used in the trucking industry.
Length
Most standard flatbed trailers are 48 to 53 feet long. The 48-foot flatbed is common for regional hauling, while the 53-foot flatbed is used for long-haul freight across highways.
Width
The typical width of a flatbed truck is 8.5 feet (102 inches). This is the legal maximum width for most highways without requiring special permits.
Height
Flatbed trailers usually have a deck height of about 5 feet from the ground. Since there are no walls or roof, the height of the cargo can vary, but anything over 13.5 feet total height (truck + cargo) may require special permits.
Weight and Load Capacity
Flatbed trucks are designed to carry heavy loads. The maximum legal weight limit for a standard semi-truck in the United States is 80,000 pounds (36,287 kg), including the truck, trailer, fuel, and cargo.
Typical cargo capacity:
- 40,000 to 48,000 pounds of freight (depending on truck configuration and axle limits)
Heavier loads may require special permits, escort vehicles, or specialized trailers such as step decks or lowboys.
Types of Flatbed Trucks and Their Sizes
Standard Flatbed Trailer
- Length: 48–53 feet
- Width: 8.5 feet
- Used for general freight, lumber, steel, and machinery
Step Deck (Drop Deck) Trailer
- Lower deck height for taller cargo
- Ideal for equipment that exceeds height limits on standard flatbeds
Double Drop (Lowboy) Trailer
- Extremely low deck height
- Used for oversized machinery, construction equipment, and heavy loads
Extendable Flatbed Trailer
- Adjustable length for extra-long cargo like wind turbine blades or bridge beams
What Can You Carry on a Flatbed Truck?
Flatbed trucks are versatile and can transport a wide range of cargo, including:
- Construction materials (steel beams, lumber, concrete)
- Heavy machinery and equipment
- Vehicles and industrial parts
- Agricultural equipment
- Oversized and irregularly shaped freight
Because there are no walls, flatbeds can accommodate cargo that would not fit in enclosed trailers.
Flatbed Truck Size vs. Other Trailers
Compared to dry vans and refrigerated trailers, flatbeds offer more flexibility in size and loading. However, they require proper securing using straps, chains, and tarps to protect cargo during transit.
Many businesses prefer working with professional flatbed trucking freight services to ensure cargo is secured correctly and transported safely according to regulations.
Factors That Affect Flatbed Truck Size Limits
Several factors determine how big a flatbed truck and its cargo can be:
- Federal and state regulations for weight and dimensions
- Bridge and road height limits
- Axle configuration and weight distribution
- Permits for oversized or overweight loads
Always check local and national transportation laws before shipping large freight.
Final Thoughts
Flatbed trucks are among the largest and most versatile vehicles used in freight transportation. With standard lengths of 48 to 53 feet, a width of 8.5 feet, and the ability to carry tens of thousands of pounds, they are ideal for heavy and oversized cargo. Understanding flatbed truck dimensions and weight limits helps businesses plan shipments efficiently and avoid legal issues.
Whether you’re shipping construction materials or industrial equipment, knowing how big a flatbed truck is can help you choose the right transportation solution for your needs.
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