How Wide is a Flat Deck Trailer? Standard Dimensions Explained

Flat deck trailers play a crucial role in the transport and logistics industry, allowing for the easy transport of oversized and irregularly shaped cargo that may not fit in standard enclosed trailers. Whether you’re in the construction, agriculture, or heavy equipment industries, understanding the dimensions of these trailers is essential for efficient and safe transport. In particular, knowing the standard width offlat deck trailerscan help you determine whether they meet your hauling needs or if special permits are required.

Standard Width of Flat Deck Trailers

The standard width of a flat deck trailer is 8.5 feet (102 inches). This dimension is consistent across most types of flatbed trailers and complies with legal road width restrictions in North America. The 8.5-foot width is ideal for transporting goods such as construction materials, large machinery, or vehicles, offering a wide, open surface that accommodates bulky items.

This width is important because it allows for maximum cargo space without surpassing road safety regulations. When transporting loads that fit within this width, there is no need to apply for special permits, making transportation more straightforward and cost-effective. Some trailers, such as step-decks or lowboys, may have different deck heights, but the width remains standard to meet road regulations.

At Excel Trailers, they specialize in providing flat deck trailers that meet these standard dimensions. If your business requires trailers with customized widths for specific industries or specialized projects, they also offer custom trailer solutions to meet those unique demands. You can explore their trailer options atExcel Trailersto find the ideal trailer for your needs.

Legal Width Limits for Flat Deck Trailers

The legal width limit for flat deck trailers on most highways is 8.5 feet (102 inches), as regulated by transportation authorities like the U.S. Department of Transportation and similar bodies in Canada. This limit is set to ensure that trailers can safely navigate public roads without endangering other vehicles or causing damage to infrastructure like bridges, tunnels, or narrow roadways.

If a trailer exceeds this width, the load is classified as an "oversize load," and special permits are required to transport it. These permits often come with additional regulations, such as restricted travel times, specific routes, or the need for escort vehicles (pilot cars) to accompany the truck, ensuring the safety of other drivers.

In many cases, oversize loads may also need signage and lighting to alert other drivers, adding extra considerations and costs to the transportation process. It’s crucial to plan ahead and consult local regulations if your cargo exceeds the standard width. Excel Trailers can assist in helping you navigate these legal requirements, offering guidance on when oversize permits are necessary for your trailer.

Choosing the Right Width for Your Needs

Choosing the appropriate trailer width depends on the type of cargo you plan to transport. If you are hauling standard loads such as building materials, farm equipment, or vehicles, the 8.5-foot-wide flat deck trailer is often the most efficient and practical choice. This width strikes the perfect balance between providing ample space for bulky cargo and adhering to legal transport requirements.

However, if you frequently transport oversized loads such as industrial machinery, prefabricated buildings, or heavy construction equipment, a wider trailer may be necessary. Custom trailers with extendable or adjustable decks are available to accommodate these larger loads.

When deciding on the right trailer, consider factors such as the weight of your cargo, its dimensions, and whether you will be transporting items that exceed the standard width regularly. Companies like Excel Trailers offer specialized trailers that cater to these needs, ensuring that you can transport your cargo safely and efficiently.

Types of Cargo for Flat Deck Trailers

Flat deck trailers are highly versatile and can carry a wide range of cargo, which is why they are often the preferred choice for industries like construction, agriculture, and logistics. Some of the most common types of cargo that benefit from flat deck trailers include:

• Construction Materials: Steel beams, concrete blocks, and lumber are frequently transported using flatbed trailers. Their open design makes it easy to load and unload heavy items with a forklift or crane.
• Heavy Machinery and Equipment: Bulldozers, cranes, and other construction equipment that are too large for enclosed trailers can be easily secured on a flat deck.
• Vehicles: Trucks, tractors, and other large vehicles can be transported using a flat deck trailer, especially if they are oversized or cannot be driven to their destination.

The open nature of a flat deck trailer makes it particularly useful for hauling irregularly shaped items that wouldn’t fit inside a traditional enclosed trailer. Additionally, since these trailers allow loading and unloading from the sides or top, they offer more flexibility in how cargo is positioned and secured.

When You Need an Oversized Flat Deck Trailer

There are situations where a standard 8.5-foot-wide trailer won’t be enough, especially when transporting unusually large or heavy loads. In these cases, a wider or extendable flat deck trailer is necessary. These trailers can extend up to 80 feet in length and are ideal for carrying extra-long items like wind turbine blades, bridge components, or industrial tanks.

Oversized trailers are also commonly used in industries such as oil and gas or renewable energy, where equipment is often too large for standard shipping options. It’s important to note that transporting such oversized loads typically requires a more detailed logistics plan, including route planning and obtaining the necessary permits for oversize loads.

If your cargo frequently exceeds the standard dimensions, consider working with a specialized trailer provider like Excel Trailers to customize a flat deck trailer that can handle these larger loads. They offer a variety of extendable and customizable trailers designed specifically for oversize transportation.