What do you do if your load is extremely long and it exceeds the length capacity of a standard 48-foot flatbed trailer?
Loads that are too long to fit on a 48-foot flatbed trailer may be transported on a stretch flatbed trailer.
The word “stretch” in the term stretch trailer describes the trailers capability of being extendable lengthwise. They are similar to most other flatbed type trailers, however they have a sliding mechanism that can extend the length of the cargo bed.
The extendable cargo beds are also a feature on the sub varieties of flatbeds, such as double drop down, low boys or multi axle trailers. All these trailers are essentially well suited for the same type of freight shipping as the non-stretch models, with the additional ability to extend the overall length of the trailer and gain a lot of extra length for the load.
Today many modern flatbeds possess the capacity to “stretch out” and become longer when the length of the freight requires it. Many trucking fleets use stretch trailers to be more efficient than running and maintaining a fleet of different length flatbed trailers.
This extra length will vary depending on the trailer manufacturer, generally the trailers overall length can vary between 45 feet and 80 feet. This is great if you have a load that will require this extended length to safely and legally transport via flatbed. The extended length may also be used to stack more freight on a flatbed without increasing their vertical clearance requirements.
Should your load require any special permits, our knowledgeable freight representatives will be able to advise you about required permits at the time you are getting your quote.
It is important for you to know the operating limits and capacities of the trailers you intend to use. Some stretch trailers will have to be loaded in a certain way to prevent damage to the slider assembly mechanisms that allow for the trailer to extend. On older models of stretch trailers there are reduced weight capacities.
As long as you supply our freight representative accurate dimensions and weight of your load, we will handle the proper equipment selection and any permit requirements.
It may be tempting to resign yourself to booking an over-dimensional shipment, consider reconfiguring your load plan to be longer instead of taller or wider.
The key advantage of the stretch trailer is, its ability to be able to extend its length. Stretch flatbed trailers are your best option if you are not sure of your exact overall length of your shipment before the pickup date. Always make sure that you have reserved the entire trailer for your freight shipment in this case.
Keep the hauling company up to date with as much load dimension information as possible about your shipment so the proper trailer type will be dispatched.
After you submit your shipment requirements and specifications to Great Western Transportation, we will determine whether or not if a stretch trailer will be required, or if there are other options. It is important to have an understanding of the different equipment and trailer technology available for your transportation needs.
Great Western Transportation is always here to assist you with equipment selection.
