What is a Lowboy Trailer?
A lowboy trailer, also known as a lowbed or low-loader trailer, is a specialized type of heavy-duty trailer designed to transport oversized and overweight cargo.
Learn about lowboy flatbed trailers
What is a Lowboy Trailer? A lowboy trailer is a low platform flatbed trailer used to haul heavy, bulky and taller than normal items. They have carry capacities of 25 tons (50,000 pounds) & 35 tons (70,000 pounds). A lowboy trailer is an excellent choice for hauling construction equipment, agricultural machinery and other heavy-duty loads. The low height makes loading and unloading easier and helps to keep the payload level while in transit, which is important for preventing damage.
As is the case with many trailers, there are a variety of different lowboy trailers. With each variation comes different tools and makeups, making certain haul jobs easier. When, where and why to use these types of trailers can create a headache of questions for those looking to ship larger items.
A lowboy trailer is good for the overweight and oversized loads. If you will be traveling over rough terrain or through tight spaces, you will need a lowboy trailer that is designed for those conditions. FreightCenter aims to ease the pain and help ensure customers are able to find the right trailer for their shipping needs. So when you decide you want to go with a lowboy trailer, follow these definitions to ensure you choose the right trailer for your load.
Different Types of Lowboy Trailers
Fixed Gooseneck
Fixed Gooseneck trailers offer a variety of features. Their adjustable gooseneck allows for easy loading and unloading from both the front and rear of the trailer. In addition to this handy feature, fixed gooseneck lowboys also have a number of other features that make them ideal for hauling heavy loads. These trailers have a low ground clearance and drop-deck feature which allows for easy loading and unloading. They also have a strong frame and axles that can support a heavy load. If you’re looking for a trailer that can handle a heavy load and offers convenient loading features, a fixed gooseneck lowboy is an excellent choice.
Fixed Neck Lowboy
A fixed neck lowboy varies from a fixed gooseneck trailer in a few ways. Fixed neck trailers are a lightweight option that can carry heavier loads. Carriers can load from both the sides and rear but due to the immovable gooseneck, these trailers face a restriction of front loading. If easy loading is not a top priority and you’re looking to ship heavy materials. a fixed neck lowboy is a great option.
Removable Gooseneck Lowboy
Removable gooseneck trailers come in two different types: The original removable gooseneck and the folding gooseneck trailer. The removable gooseneck trailer is a versatile and convenient option for those in need of a low-bed trailer. Its unique design makes it perfect for a variety of purposes, including towing other vehicles and equipment. This trailer can be easily connected and disconnected, which makes it perfect for those who need to save space.
The removable gooseneck trailer is also lighter than other trailer types, making it easier to transport. Overall, the removable gooseneck trailer is a great option for both businesses and individuals.
The main advantage of a folding gooseneck trailer is the ease with which you can load it. The gooseneck can be lowered to form a ramp, making it easy to load and unload your equipment on uneven surfaces. This is achieved thanks to their ground-engaging pads and retractable pedestal.
There are some disadvantages to this type of trailer as well. One is that they can be more expensive than other trailer types. Another is that they are not always as durable as other types of trailers. If you are looking for a long-term solution, you might want to consider another option. If you need a trailer that is easy to load and unload, the folding gooseneck trailer is a good choice. Just keep in mind that added features can lead to more maintenance and costs down the road.
Lowboy Trailer Specs
Due to the variety of different lowboy trailers, dimensions can vary from trailer to trailer. Although they may differ, there are maximum dimensions that all lowboys must adhere to. These include:
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Length: 24 ft to 29.5 ft.
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Width: No wider than 8.5 ft.
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Height: Well height is 18 ft to 24 ft. Max freight height is 12 ft. With the trailer included, the overall max height is 14 ft.
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Weight: For two axles, the weight limit is 40,000 lbs. With additional axles, the weight should not exceed 80,000 lbs.
When to Use and When Not to Use a Lowboy Trailer
If you are looking to move freight that exceeds the height or weight restrictions with other available trailers, you might need a lowboy. Thanks to their variety and special features, lowboy trailers can accommodate shippers with unique shipping needs. Lowboy trailers specialize in hauling taller-than-usual freight thanks in part to their double-deck feature. This lowered deck allows for improved stability while adding a few extra feet of clearance.
The max height of a lowboy, trailer included, is 14 feet, which allows lowboy trailers the ability to transport heavy, bulky and large freight across the country. If you frequent auctions or enjoy buying and selling large equipment, you should become familiar with lowboy trailers and their abilities. Heavy machinery and oversized loads like tractors, combines and dump trucks are just a few examples of lowboy trailer freight.
And while there are many reasons to use a lowboy trailer, there are also a host of situations where using a different trailer type will be best for your freight. If you are looking to ship home furnishings, non-perishables, electronics, or dry goods you should consider using a dry van. Perishables are best shipped using a refrigerated (reefer) trailer. If you are unsure of which trailer to use, give FreightCenter a call. One of our trusted call agents to assist you in finding the best trailer for your freight. FreightCenter is a leader in Third-Party Logistics, working to ensure our customers receive the best carrier at the lowest rate for any and all shipments.
Benefits and Disadvantages of Using a Lowboy Trailer
The number one advantage to using a lowboy trailer is the vast number of large items they can transport. Every highway has height restrictions for cargo and lowboy trailers help ensure shipments remain under these restrictions. The configuration of these trailers also allows shippers to safely, and in some cases easily, transport heavy items. The lowered deck on a lowboy trailer allows for a more stable ride and center of gravity for your shipment. Tall and heavy items are at the forefront of lowboy trailer shipments. But these trailers also offer an important width advantage to bulky, oversized items.
A few disadvantages to keep in mind when considering a lowboy include availability, volatile costs and shipment volume. How available a lowboy is in your geographic location can either lower or raise costs. And like other freight shipping methods, lowboy trailers are subject to rising costs. These costs will also be affected by how much of the trailer your shipment will take up. All of these factors should be weighed in deciding how to ship your freight.
Wrapping up Lowboy Trailers
Lowboy trailers offer shippers the chance to transport large, bulky and heavy items from coast to coast. These trailers come with a variety of handy features including removable goosenecks for easy loading and unloading. They also use a lowered deck height which allows for freight that measures up to 12 feet in height. If you need to transport a heavy load, a lowboy trailer is the best option. Contact FreightCenter if you’re looking to transport goods via a lowboy trailer. We can help accommodate your load by finding you the best carrier with the lowest rates.
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