What Is a Flatbed Trailer?
A flatbed is an open-deck trailer commonly used for equipment, materials and freight that can be loaded from the side, rear or above.
A flatbed is a single flat deck about 5′ off the ground with no walls or roof, loadable by forklift or crane from any side. It is the most abundant open-deck equipment in the market, which makes it the default for legal-dimension machinery, steel, lumber and palletized freight that needs open loading.
Loads are secured with chains and straps to federal standards, with edge protection and tarps when the cargo needs weather cover. Cargo taller than about 8′6″ outgrows the flatbed and steps down to a step deck or lowboy.
Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by the Dobie Transport logistics team
Get a Free,No-Obligation Quote Today
Our logistics specialists are standing by. Most quotes delivered in 5 minutes or less.