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What is Flatbed?

A flatbed is an open-deck trailer with no sides or roof, used to haul oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped freight such as steel coils, lumber, machinery, and construction materials. Flatbeds require load securement with straps, chains, and tarps.

How it works

Drivers load the freight via overhead crane, forklift, or drive-on from a loading dock, then secure it with the appropriate number of tie-downs per FMCSA cargo securement rules. Oversized loads may require permits and pilot cars depending on dimensions.

Who uses it

Carriers specializing in construction materials, steel, lumber, machinery, and heavy haul. Flatbed rates are typically higher than dry van due to loading complexity and specialized skills.

Why it matters

Flatbed securement rules are strict and roadside-inspected. Improper tie-down can result in fines, out-of-service orders, and liability claims.

In Rig Terminal

Rig Terminal tracks flatbed-specific equipment attributes, surfaces lane rates for flatbed, and supports oversized permit tracking in the compliance module.

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