Flatbed shipping is a cornerstone in the logistics world, offering unparalleled versatility for different freight shipping needs. At Fello Logistics, we’re excited to share our flatbed shipping expertise to help you understand and best utilize this freight shipping method.
What is Flatbed Shipping, and Why Use a Flatbed Trailer?
Flatbed shipping is the go-to method for transporting goods that don’t require the protection of a dry van during shipment. It’s also beneficial for cargo that can’t be loaded or unloaded from a dock. The open design of flatbed trailers allows for versatile loading and unloading methods, including cranes and forklifts, from various angles and heights. This flexibility is why flatbed trailers are indispensable for shipments to and from job sites, warehouses, and distribution centers.
Flatbed trailers usually range from 48ft to 53ft long and can handle weights up to 48,000 lbs. They’re equipped with air-ride suspension and standard hook-ups, making them the preferred choice for long-haul and over-dimensional shipments.
What Kind of Freight is Suited for Flatbed Trailers?
An open design makes flatbed trailers a versatile solution across industries like construction, renewable energy, manufacturing, and more. That, paired with a capacity for heavy loads, makes this method an ideal option for:
- Construction materials like lumber and steel beams.
- Oversized items like scaffolding and trusses.
- Heavy machinery for mining, drilling, or agricultural purposes.
- Renewable energy components like solar panels and wind turbines.
- Large-scale industrial equipment.
Is Flatbed Shipping the Best Option for Your Freight?
The main advantage of flatbed trailers is their dimensional flexibility; however, this openness also presents challenges like securing the cargo properly and protecting it from environmental elements. There are also pricing and coordination factors to consider with this shipping method.
Here are a few tips for planning effective flatbed shipping:
- Know your cargo: Understand the specifics of your shipment, including dimensions and weight.
- Choose the right trailer: Familiarize yourself with different flatbed types to make informed decisions.
- Plan for pricing fluctuations: Be aware of potential extra costs related to specialized loads or equipment. Flatbed shipping demand and rates can also fluctuate seasonally, often peaking from April to October.
- Partner with experts: A 3PL provider can help you navigate these decisions and eliminate the confusion and miscommunications often associated with shipment coordination.
Understanding the challenges and trends can help you plan shipping more effectively. At Fello Logistics, we emphasize the importance of meticulous planning and execution to overcome these challenges, ensuring the safety and integrity of your freight.
Using a 3PL Logistics Company for Shipping Coordination
Using freight brokers and logistics companies is often necessary when moving your freight. One of the many benefits of using a freight logistics company specializing in flatbed freight shipping is increased service levels for your clients. Additional advantages include enhanced service delivery, more timely shipments, and increased customer satisfaction. 3PL logistics companies also often have extensive networks and specialized expertise, helping to eliminate flatbed shipping headaches and allowing you to focus more on what you do best.
Partner with Fello Logistics for an Elevated Shipping Experience
Fello Logistics is a premier 3PL logistics company with a vast network of quality flatbed shipping carriers. Our customer-focused service puts people and relationships first and ensures your freight is handled with the utmost care and efficiency.
Learn more about our personalized freight shipping services suited to your unique business needs.
