How You Should Transport Cargo on a Flatbed Trailer

Flatbeds are versatile trailers that can accommodate a wide range of cargo types. The unique design of flatbed trailers provides multiple access points, making loading and unloading cargo easier than ever. Between the versatility and accessibility of flatbed trailers, they’re often a go-to choice for hotshot truckers.

Although the unique design of flatbed trailers provides several benefits, it does have its drawbacks. The biggest one is it doesn’t have walls to keep cargo in its place. This means that special considerations are required when loading and transporting cargo on a flatbed trailer.

Let’s take a look at how you can load and transport cargo on a flatbed trailer to keep your cargo safe and your customers happy. 

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The Best Way to Load a Flatbed Trailer—How to Keep Your Cargo Safe

Before you load your flatbed, you need to make sure the cargo is appropriate for your trailer. Just like any other truck or trailer, your flatbed has weight capacity that shouldn’t be exceeded. Most trailers come with a data plate attached to it that indicates its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum weight that a trailer can carry, and it includes the weight of the trailer itself plus the maximum cargo weight. 

After you’ve ensured that your truck, trailer, and cargo is fit for the road, then you can begin loading your flatbed. When loading your flatbed trailer, make sure it’s already attached to your truck, and you’re parked on a flat, even surface. Your cargo should be placed directly over the flatbed’s axles, with 60% of the weight towards the front and 40% of the weight towards the back.

Read our related article to discover how to deliver heavy equipment.

Equipment Needed for a Flatbed Trailer

Depending on what you’re hauling, you’ll need equipment for loading, securing, and transporting cargo on your flatbed trailer. 

To move cargo on and off your flatbed trailer, you’ll either need ramps or a forklift. Dual ramps are ideal for loading vehicles and equipment that can be driven onto the flatbed, and wide working ramps are ideal for when you have to walk the cargo onto the flatbed. For heavy pallets, a forklift is usually required to lift them over the side of the flatbed.

To safely secure and transport your cargo on your flatbed, you will either need straps or chains. Chains are used for heavy cargo, while straps can be used for medium to light sized cargo. Both chains and straps have a working load limit, which is usually ⅓ of their breaking strength. Always make sure your chains or straps are suitable for the cargo you’re hauling. 

Read our related guide for the ultimate hotshot trucking equipment list.

How to Tarp a Load on a Flatbed Trailer

Tarps are often necessary to properly secure a cargo load, especially when hauling with a flatbed trailer. They prevent spills, movement, and damage to cargo and other motorists during transit. Some states require tarps to be used when hauling cargo, so make sure you always use a tarp when necessary. 

When using a tarp to secure a load on a flatbed, there’s two key concepts to keep in mind. First, your tarp should sufficiently protect your cargo. This means that your tarp should be big enough to cover your cargo and thick enough to protect sensitive cargo. 

The second concept to keep in mind is your tarp shouldn’t flap in the wind. Not only will this damage your tarp, but it can also cause damage to your cargo. To prevent your tarp from flapping in the wind, you should connect several bungies from your tarp to the trailer. You should also wrap the sides of the tarp around the tail of the tarp, similar to wrapping a present. Finally, secure the top of the tarp by attaching straps from one side of the trailer to the other. 

Read our related article to discover the differences between car haulers vs utility trailers.

What Can You Haul on a Flatbed Trailer?

Safety is key when hauling anything, but this is especially true for hauling with flatbed trailers. Flatbeds don’t have walls or ceilings like other trucks or trailers, so you need to make sure your cargo can be delivered to its destination safely and securely.

Flatbed trailers are ideal for hauling:

• Construction materials
• Furniture and appliances
• Vehicles
• Pallets
• Agricultural products
• Large or bulky items

Although flatbed trailers can carry a wide range of cargo types, there are some products and goods that aren’t suitable for flatbeds. Loose or small items, like gravel and sand, can’t be properly secured in a flatbed. Sensitive items, such as perishable goods or electronics, would be too exposed to the elements on a flatbed, and they require specialized trailers instead. 

Read our related article to find out the best trailer for hotshot trucking.

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Open Road connects independent hotshot haulers with businesses that need them. Our driver app makes it easy to sign up, claim a job, and start hauling. If you have your own truck, trailer, or cargo van, then you can start hauling for Open Road and be your own boss. 

If you’re a hotshot driver that’s looking for work, sign up today to become an Open Road driver.