Key takeaways
- Flatbeds carry general cargo, steel and materials.
- Lowbeds carry tall and heavy machinery with a lower deck height.
- Overall height and weight decide the trailer and any permits.
Comparison
| Flatbed | Lowbed | |
|---|---|---|
| Deck height | Standard | Lower — keeps tall loads under height limits |
| Typical loads | Steel, pipes, materials, containers | Excavators, cranes' components, machinery |
| Loading | By crane or forklift | Often driven on via ramps, or by crane |
How to choose
Add the load height to the trailer deck height. If the total is too tall for the route, a lowbed is needed. Very heavy or oversize loads may also need road permits and escorts — share dimensions and weight early.
Frequently asked questions
Can you move our machine on a lowbed?
Share the machine's weight, dimensions and the route and we will plan the trailer and any permits.