Flatbed Truck (2026): What a Flatbed Truck Is, Uses, Types, and Shipping Tips in Canada & USA

If you’re wondering what a flatbed truck is, the answer is simple: it’s one of the most versatile freight vehicles for moving heavy, oversized, or awkward cargo.

At ULS Freight, we help businesses across Canada and the USA ship construction materials, machinery, and industrial freight using reliable flatbed solutions.

What Is a Flatbed Truck?

A flatbed truck is a commercial vehicle with a completely open trailer—no sides and no roof—built specifically to transport large, heavy, or oversized freight.

Because the bed is flat and unobstructed, a flatbed truck allows loading and unloading from the top, side, or rear using cranes or forklifts.

A flatbed truck is critical in modern freight transportation because it handles cargo that enclosed trailers simply cannot.

Why Flatbed Trucks Are So Important in Freight

Flatbed trucks play a major role in the North American supply chain.

Unlike box trailers, flatbed trucks provide flexibility for tall, wide, and irregular loads.

Key reasons shippers choose a flatbed truck include:

• Fast loading from all sides

• Ability to carry oversized freight

• Better access for cranes and forklifts

• Ideal for non-fragile industrial cargo

In both Canada and the USA, a flatbed truck is one of the most commonly used equipment types for construction and manufacturing logistics.

Key Features of a Flatbed Truck

A standard flatbed truck is designed for strength, access, and versatility.

Typical Capacity and Dimensions

Most flatbed trucks can handle:

• Up to 48,000 pounds of freight

• Trailer length up to 53 feet

• Width around 102 inches

• Height up to 102 inches

This makes a flatbed truck suitable for heavy and large-scale shipping.

Common Cargo Transported on Flatbed Trucks

A flatbed truck is best for freight that does not require full enclosure.

Typical Loads Include:

• Lumber, pipes, and concrete

• Steel coils and metal beams

• Industrial machinery

• Construction equipment

• Shipping containers

Because flatbed trucks are open-deck, they are perfect for tall loads that won’t fit inside dry vans.

Flatbed Truck Loading and Unloading Advantages

One of the biggest benefits of a flatbed truck is accessibility.

Flatbed trucks allow loading by:

• Crane from above

• Forklift from the side

• Ramp loading from the rear

This is why a flatbed truck is widely used at ports, warehouses, and construction sites.

Real-world example:
A Toronto construction company shipping steel beams to Michigan will often require a flatbed truck for quick crane unloading on-site.

Types of Flatbed Trucks and Trailer Variations

Not all flatbed trucks are the same. Different loads require different trailer configurations.

1. Standard Flatbed Trailer

A standard flatbed truck is the most common option for general freight.

Best for:

• Palletized materials

• Building supplies

• Industrial freight

2. Step-Deck (Drop-Deck) Flatbed

A step-deck flatbed truck has a lower deck height, allowing taller cargo.

Best for:

• Equipment exceeding standard height limits

• Large machinery

3. Lowboy Trailers

Lowboys are specialized flatbed trucks for extremely heavy or tall freight.

Best for:

• Bulldozers

• Excavators

• Oversized industrial equipment

4. Extendable Flatbed Trailers

Extendable flatbed trucks are designed for extra-long cargo.

Best for:

• Long pipes

• Bridge beams

• Wind turbine components

Flatbed Truck Securement and Safety

Because flatbed trucks are open, proper securement is essential.

Cargo is typically secured using:

• Heavy-duty straps

• Chains and binders

• Winches

• Tarps (when weather protection is needed)

Flatbed trucking also requires regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations across Canada and the USA.

A professional flatbed truck carrier will always follow DOT and Canadian transport securement standards.

Flatbed Truck vs Enclosed Trailer: What’s the Difference?

Many shippers ask whether they need a flatbed or a dry van.

Flatbed Truck

• Open trailer

• Best for oversized freight

• Easy crane loading

• Freight exposed to weather

Enclosed Trailer (Dry Van)

• Fully covered

• Better for fragile goods

• Limited by door dimensions

If your freight is tall, wide, or awkwardly shaped, a flatbed truck is usually the right solution.

Flatbed Trucking in Canada and USA (2026 Logistics Outlook)

Flatbed trucking continues to grow due to demand in:

• Construction expansion

• Infrastructure projects

• Cross-border industrial trade

According to industry logistics reports, flatbed freight remains one of the most essential trucking modes in North America because it supports manufacturing, energy, and large-scale building projects.

A flatbed truck is especially valuable for cross-border freight between Ontario, Quebec, and major US states like Michigan, Ohio, and New York.

Practical Tips for Shipping on a Flatbed Truck

If you’re booking a flatbed truck, follow these expert tips:

1. Know Your Freight Dimensions

Always measure:

• Length

• Width

• Height

• Weight

Oversized loads may require permits.

2. Choose the Right Trailer Type

Not every load fits a standard flatbed truck.

Step-decks and lowboys may be required.

3. Plan for Weather Exposure

Flatbed trucks are open, so consider:

• Tarping

• Protective wrapping

• Weather-resistant packaging

4. Work With an Experienced Freight Partner

Professional carriers ensure:

• Proper securement

• Regulatory compliance

• Reliable delivery schedules

Why Businesses Choose ULS Freight for Flatbed Shipping

At ULS Freight, we understand that flatbed transportation is not just about moving freight—it’s about moving it safely, efficiently, and on time.

We support flatbed truck freight services for:

• Construction supply chains

• Industrial equipment transport

• Cross-border Canada–USA logistics

• Oversized and project cargo

With our expertise, your flatbed truck shipments are handled with precision and care.

FAQ: Flatbed Truck Questions Answered

What is a flatbed truck used for?

A flatbed truck is used to transport heavy, oversized, or awkward cargo like lumber, machinery, steel, and shipping containers.

How much weight can flatbed trucks carry?

Most flatbed trucks can haul up to 48,000 pounds, depending on regulations and axle limits.

What makes flatbed trucks different from regular trucks?

Flatbed trucks have an open trailer with no sides or roof, allowing easier loading for oversized freight.

Do flatbed loads require special securement?

Yes. Flatbed freight must be secured with straps, chains, winches, and sometimes tarps to meet safety standards.

What are the main types of flatbed trucks?

Common types include:

• Standard flatbed

• Step-deck (drop-deck)

• Lowboy

• Extendable flatbed

Are flatbed trucks common in Canada–USA shipping?

Yes. Flatbed trucks are widely used for cross-border freight, especially for industrial and construction materials.

Conclusion: Flatbed Truck Shipping Made Simple With ULS Freight

A flatbed truck is one of the most essential tools in modern freight logistics, offering unmatched flexibility for oversized, heavy, and industrial cargo.

From construction materials to machinery and cross-border shipments, flatbed trucks keep Canada and the USA supply chain moving efficiently.

If your business needs trusted flatbed transportation, ULS Freight is ready to help with professional flatbed solutions across North America. Learn more or request a quote today at ULS Freight.