Whether it’s lumber, piping, hay, palletized goods, or construction supplies, flatbed trailers, also known as open-deck trailers, can handle it all. Flatbed trailers are extremely versatile in their use, but that’s because, unlike enclosed trailers, there are many variations of flatbeds to choose from. If you’re considering a flatbed or open-deck trailer for your shipment, how do you know which one is best for your freight? This article will help you answer just that. Read on to better understand the different kinds of flatbed trailers that are available so you can make an informed decision on which one your freight needs.
Types of Flatbed Trailers
Flatbed trailers come in all shapes, sizes, and load capacities; each designed to carry different types of cargo. The one tricky part of flatbed shipping is choosing and finding the flatbed trailer that is capable of hauling your freight’s weight and size. It’s also important to note that anything exceeding legal dimensions and weight can be considered oversized and may require more to ship, such as state permits, police, escorts, or more.
Shipping oversized? Download our FREE Over-Dimensional Shipping Guide.*Important Note – Trailer capacity, weight, and dimensions mentioned in this article are general specifications and should be used as an estimated guideline. These can vary based on the trailer type, brand, or semi-tractor being used with it.
- Standard flatbed
- Extendable flatbed
- Step deck / drop deck
- Stretch single step deck / drop deck
- Double drop
- Stretch / extendable double drop
- Removable gooseneck (RGN)
- Stretch RGN
- Conestoga
- Side kit
Standard Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 48,000 lbs.
Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 48 to 53 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Standard flatbed trailers are widely used and versatile, often the most popular of all flatbed trailers. They most commonly haul steel, lumber, and other kinds of building or construction materials.
Extendable Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 43,000 lbs.
Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 48 to 80 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Extendable flatbed trailers can also be known as flatbed stretch trailers. These trailers have an extendable deck to transport cargo that is too long for a standard flatbed, like a piece of large or heavy machinery.
Step Deck/ Drop Deck Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 48,000 lbs.
Top Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 11 ft.
Bottom Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 37 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Maximum Legal Height: 10 ft. on the bottom deck, 8 ft 6 in. on the top deck
These trailers are referred to as either a step deck or a drop deck. They consist of a bottom deck and a top deck. These flatbed trailers are great for transporting freight that would exceed the height restriction on a standard flatbed; they are ideal for any tall loads that need to go under low bridges. They also make it easy to use ramps to load and unload freight. A common piece of freight they haul is tractors.
Stretch Single Step Deck/Drop Deck Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 45,000 lbs.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 10 ft.
Main Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 35 to 63 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Main Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 10 ft.
These flatbed trailers are like step decks, except they can be extended to transport cargo that can be too long for a standard step deck. This can include goods like scaffolding or drilling and mining equipment.
Double Drop Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 36,000 to 40,000 lbs.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 10 ft.
Main Deck (well): Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 25 to 29 ft.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 9 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Main Deck (well): Maximum Legal Height: 11 ft. 6 in.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 10 ft.
Double drop trailers are also good for cargo that is too tall and generally used to haul oversized freight. Double drop trailers are unique in that they have a longer piece of the trailer called the “well”.
Stretch/Extendable Double Drop Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 40,000 lbs.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 10 ft.
Main Deck (well): Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 29 to 50 ft.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 9 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Main Deck (well): Maximum Legal Height: 11 ft. 6 in.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 10 ft.
Like the standard double drop trailer, this one is also great for oversized freight. Since this trailer can be lengthened for longer loads, it’s ideal to carrier longer freight since it provides more support and prevents any overhang. It’s also common for this trailer to have two to three axles so it can support more weight. Common freight hauled by stretch double drops are pipes and steel beams.
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 42,000 to 150,000 lbs.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 10 ft.
Main Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 30 ft.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 9 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Main Deck (well): Maximum Legal Height: 11 ft. 6 in.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 10 ft.
An RGN is one special flatbed trailer. They’re great for long, tall, and heavy freight! They have a detachable front that can be used to create a ramp for loading and unloading and can expand from three axles to over 20, to carry heavy items, like farming combines. However, it’s important to note that since these are more specialized, they can be tougher to find and more expensive to use for your flatbed shipping.
Stretch RGN Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 42,000 to 150,000 lbs.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 10 ft.
Main Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 29 to 65 ft.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 9 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Front Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft. 6 in.
Main Deck (well): Maximum Legal Height: 11 ft. 6 in.
Rear Deck: Maximum Legal Height: 10 ft.
When you need an RGN that can haul longer freight, a stretch or extendable RGN can help. Just like the standard RGN, axles can vary, from three and up, depending on the freight weight. The only real difference with this RGN trailer is the main deck is extendable up to 65 feet long.
Conestoga Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 42,000 to 45,000 lbs.
Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 48 to 53 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 6 in.
Maximum Legal Height: 8 ft.
One interesting fact about Conestoga trailers is that Conestoga is also a brand name for them. Conestogas are specialized, flatbed trailers that have a hard shell and rolling tarp system, which is great for freight that needs better protection from outside elements. These can be one of the most requested flatbed trailers due to their versatility. They can often be seen transporting freight like CNC machinery or helicopters.
Side Kit Flatbed Trailers
Maximum Legal Weight: 42,000 to 45,000 lbs.
Maximum Legal Cargo Length: 48 to 53 ft.
Maximum Legal Width: 8 ft. 4 in.
Maximum Legal Height: “technically” it’s 8 ft. 6 in. but because of sides, 6 ft. is more easily accomplished
Side kit trailers are like Conestogas in that they are flatbed trailers that offer more protection. These trailers have panels surrounding often made from plywood or fiberglass, allowing for tarping over the top. Side kits are great for freight that is not packaged or crated, like corn or watermelons.
Flatbed Trailer Tips
Match Your Cargo to the Correct Flatbed Trailer
It’s important to know your cargo and that you have the right flatbed trailer to transport it. If the wrong trailer pulls in and it can’t carry your freight, you’ve lost out on precious travel time. Additionally, having the correct trailer ensures safe transport.
Communicate the Details
Regardless of what kind of product you need to transport, a lack of detailed communication with your logistics provider is important to avoid confusion and setbacks. For a logistics provider to effectively support you with your flatbed shipping needs, you’ll need to share specific details such as:
- Dimensions of cargo (length, width, height)
- Cargo weight
- Type of commodity
- Does your freight have any sharp edges?
- Does it need tarped/element protection?
- Is your cargo multiple pieces or singular?
- Is your cargo loose or palletized?
Understanding Your Flatbed Trailer Needs
Understanding the different kinds of flatbed trailers there are helps you make more informed and cost-effective decisions. You’ll better know their limitations and whether they may be more costly and time-consuming to acquire. For example, by knowing that more specialized flatbed trailers like RGNs or Conestogas are tougher to obtain, you’ll know to give your logistics provider advanced notice for those shipments, giving you the benefit of a more successful relationship and potentially cheaper rates.
Access the Flatbed Trailers You Need with Trinity
Now that you know more about the different kinds of flatbed trailers, you’d think you would be set to manage flatbed shipping on your own. However, flatbed shipments aren’t always easy to facilitate. Depending on the type of freight, the flatbed trailer needed, and whether it’s an oversized shipment can all hinder and complicate things.
Flatbed shipping requires proper planning, effective communication, and access to carrier relationships with a variety of flatbed trailers to ensure supply chain success. Luckily for you, Trinity Logistics has over 45 years of experience and trusted relationships with expert flatbed carriers. Working with Trinity is like adding an extra person to your logistics team – one who’s able to take on the workload that comes with arranging flatbed shipments, finding the right flatbed trailer for the right cost, reducing your risk, ensuring the freight you need gets delivered right where it needs to on time and intact.
DISCOVER ALL THE BENEFITS OF SHIPPING FLATBED WITH TRINITY LOGISTICSStone materials are very versatile and often used in industries like construction, interior decorating, and landscaping. However, transporting stone can be a difficult task for many reasons. Stone materials can be heavy and bulky and yet surprisingly fragile at times and easy to chip or crack. Just as there are various uses of stone, there are just as many challenges to shipping it. If you’re a shipper handling stone material, bookmark this guide for all you need to know about stone transport.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Types of Stone Materials
- Uses for Stone Materials
- Packing for Stone Transport
- Equipment Needed for Stone Transport
- Oversized Stone Transport
- How to Ship Common Stone Materials
- Shipping Stone Costs
- Finding the Right Carrier
TYPES OF STONE MATERIALS
When arranging stone transport, you need to consider the type and shape of the stone material you are shipping. Stone materials can be in the shape of slabs, blocks, bricks, tiles, or crushed stone. Each shape and type of stone material requires different handling to be shipped safely and securely.
- Concrete Pavers
- Flagstone
- Limestone
- Granite
- Marble
- Crushed stone
- Slate
- Sandstone
- Landscaping stone
USES FOR STONE MATERIALS
Stone materials are used across many industries. Stone is commonly used as:
- Countertops
- Floor tiles
- Landscaping
- Roadwork
- Fireplaces
- Stairs
- Bridge construction
- Sidewalks
- Statues and decorations
- Interior Design
- Gravestones and cemetery monuments
With such a wide variety of use, it’s no surprise that stone transport often occurs across long distances.
PACKING FOR STONE TRANSPORT
Proper packing and packaging materials are very important for stone transport. Packaging stone materials the wrong way can lead to damaged product upon arrival.
Smaller stone materials, like tile, can be packed in crates with foam material for cushioning to prevent any scraping or breaking. The crate shouldn’t be too large, with minimal extra space to limit the movement of your stone product. Make sure not to stack the stone material too high or load them vertically. Using short stacks or horizontal loading will help with structural integrity.
For larger stone materials, like granite slabs, palletizing is another option, and the stone product should be wrapped around and between with cushioning to prevent scraping or chipping.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR STONE TRANSPORT
Certain pieces of stone materials will need more equipment than others.
For smaller stone material shipments, a 53’ dry van can work for most, especially those shipping less-than-truckload (LTL) and packaged in crates. Stone shipments can be loaded using a loading dock and forklift. If a loading dock isn’t available, a lift gate can be used, but this additional service costs extra and makes it more difficult to find an available truck. Generally, palletized stone shipments are not recommended for LTL unless there are plenty of packing materials wrapping the product.
If you’re shipping large pieces of stone, like granite slabs, you’re going to need to find a flatbed with an A-frame to securely hold it. An A-frame is a piece of wood or metal shaped into the letter “A” and is needed to transport stone slabs to prevent damage. Stone slabs are prone to breaking or cracking when moved horizontally, so the A-frame helps prevent any damage.
Before the granite slab or other stone material can be loaded onto the truck, the A-frame must be placed on the flatbed with a forklift or crane. When it’s ready to move, make sure that the material is secure and strapped in. Moving straps help prevent the stone material from shifting during transportation, preventing damage, and reducing any risk.
Don’t make the straps too tight because doing so could cause damage upon delivery. Everything should be checked thoroughly before transport to make sure a costly incident doesn’t happen when moving over the road.
Intermodal containers can also be an option for stone transport. Not only do these containers reduce the need for any excessive handling and thus, the chance for damage, but many popular bulk stone products used in the U.S. are mined from locations far away from the country, making this an ideal mode for global stone supply chains. When the stone material is ready to head to its destination, drayage carriers can transport the container or freight can be loaded onto a flatbed for its final stretch of travel.
OVERSIZED STONE TRANSPORT
One of the other main challenges with stone transport is it can be heavy, and sometimes oversized, like those granite slabs we mentioned earlier. Often with stone shipments, you’ll find that you need to get an oversize or overweight permit to travel on state highways.
Most often, the state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) issues these permits, but sometimes they can be handled by another department, depending on the state. These permits are only good for a short window and are the only time your shipment can be on the road. Therefore, it’s important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row, so your shipment stays on schedule, and you don’t end up with a costly violation fee.
What Qualifies as Oversize?
Each state has different regulations on its specifics, but most shipments will be considered oversized if it exceeds 80,000 pounds gross weight or if dimensions exceed:
- 14 feet in height
- 8 feet 6 inches in width
- 53 feet in length
Overweight and oversized shipments can be more comprehensive as, besides the permits, you may need oversized banners, flashing lights, civilian escorts, police escorts, route surveys, bucket trucks, or even a road closure. It’s important that you always take the time to double-check that you’re in compliance with DOT rules and regulations for your stone transport.
Looking for one place to find all you need to know about oversized shipment regulations?
HOW TO SHIP COMMON STONE MATERIALS
Shipping Crushed Stone
Crushed stone can easily be transported using a container. A freight truck pulling an empty container can be used and loaded on site, or the crushed stone can be packed into a shipping container and then loaded onto the truck with the help of a crane.
It’s important to note that unless covered, the top of the container will still be exposed during transportation. If uncovered and depending on the kind of crushed stone, sometimes some stone material can fly out of the container during transportation, resulting in damages, injuries, or loss of product. For this reason, it’s often best to have your motor carrier cover and secure the top of the container with a tarp.
Shipping Stone Bricks and Tiles
Unlike crushed stone, shipping bricks or tiles need more careful handling. Palletizing or banding into cubes is the best way to transport these stone materials. However, you can’t pack them the same as other products due to their ease of chipping or cracking during transit.
When packing stone bricks or tiles, it’s best to stack them with layers of cardboard or foam between the layers of the product, cushioning them and preventing any scraping, scratching, or other damage. When banding into cubes, usually the last two cubed loads are placed on rubber mats to further prevent them from shifting.
Additionally, it’s recommended to avoid shipping these products via less-than-truckload (LTL). These stone materials are brittle and susceptible to damage from other products, but also hazardous to other items should they come loose during shipping. To keep your stone products safe, it’s always best to ship full truckload whenever possible.
Shipping Stone Slabs, Like Granite
While nearly indestructible once installed, slabs of granite and similar stone material are quite fragile during transit. Any incorrect handling can result in damage. Like glass, these stone materials will likely crack if laid vertically. Transporting heavy slabs of stone, like granite transportation, requires specialized equipment to keep them vertical during transit.
You’ll need an A-frame to hold up the heavy slabs of stone and make sure they are secured with durable straps. When properly supported, slabs of stone can be sturdy and resistant to cracking.
Shipping Irregularly Shaped Stone Products
Let’s say you need to transport an irregularly shaped stone product, like statues or headstones. Certain products might have sharp corners that can easily chip or have smooth surfaces you don’t want to be scratched, like memorials. It can be tough to figure out how to ship these unusual stone materials.
The best option to transport these stone products safely is to order custom packaging for them, like a sturdy box with Styrofoam pieces sculpted to fit around it so your product is secured from any movement during transit.
As with shipping tile, it’s best to ship full truckload instead of LTL, so your product isn’t handled more than it should be and isn’t at risk from other products.
SHIPPING STONE COSTS
Stone transport can be more expensive to ship due to its heaviness and fragility. Any time you have a shipment that requires more attention to detail or more specialized equipment, it’s going to be more costly.
If you typically ship large volumes of stone materials often, a Request For Proposal (RFP) or contract with a carrier or logistics company can be one way to find savings versus working with the spot market.
FINDING THE RIGHT CARRIER FOR YOUR STONE TRANSPORT
Because of how delicate transporting your stone materials can be, you want to make sure the motor carrier you select is experienced. This is where cutting costs here isn’t always worth it. You also want to make sure your provider has enough insurance and that your commodity is covered should something happen.
TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF YOUR STONE TRANSPORT
Stone transport can be one of the most challenging types of freight to arrange. However, you can choose to simplify your shipments by working with an experienced third-party logistics (3PL) company like Trinity Logistics.
Working with Trinity saves you time from finding and vetting carriers, figuring out what equipment is needed, and gives you full visibility of your product’s transit, from pick up to delivery. Experience our best-in-class customer service and sit back, knowing that we’ll get your product safely delivered.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TRINITY'S SHIPPING SOLUTIONSFlatbed shipping is an essential part of the logistics industry.
Flatbed trailers are incredibly versatile and offer many benefits to shippers. Not to mention, flatbed shipping has been on the rise in recent years. In this blog, we’ll divulge to you our comprehensive knowledge of flatbed shipping so you can master this transportation mode.
WHAT IS A FLATBED TRAILER? FLATBED SHIPPING?
Flatbed Shipping
Flatbed shipping is often the transportation choice for cargo that doesn’t need the enclosure of a dry van. It’s ideal for cargo that cannot be loaded or unloaded from a dock as the shipper or receiver can load or unload from a variety of ways. The design of a flatbed trailer allows for cranes and forklifts to unload and load goods from a loading dock, from the side with a forklift or crane, or from above with an overhead, gantry, or crawler crane. This makes a flatbed trailer versatile and critical for numerous loading and unloading scenarios including at job sites, warehouses, and distribution centers.
Flatbed Trailer
A flatbed trailer is the most common type of open-deck trailer used in commercial, over-the-road, long-haul, and specialized trucking such as oversized or over-dimensional shipments. A flatbed trailer is a 48ft or 53ft trailer, that can accommodate loads up to 48,000lbs. They typically have two axles, air-ride suspension, and kingpin for a standard 5th wheel hook up.
Flatbed Freight
Flatbed freight tends to be more industrial than truckload dry van freight. There is a wide variety of flatbed freight in the marketplace. Some higher volume products like lumber or building supplies will generally pay less than more industrial items that support our country’s energy and core infrastructure needs, like construction equipment, generators, fabricated steel, and other project or job site-related freight.
WHAT CAN BE HAULED ON A FLATBED TRAILER?
The most common freight shipping uses for flatbed trailers are:
o Formed concrete items
o Lumber
o Construction materials
o Steel beams
o Scaffolding
o Trusses
o Electrical transformers
o Oil, gas, and petrochemical equipment
o Solar panels or wind turbines
o Commercial heating and air conditioning units
o Landscaping materials
o Large quantities of wrapped and stackable products
WHAT INDUSTRIES USE FLATBED TRAILERS?
Because flatbed trailers have no enclosure, the freight they carry can be versatile and their use extends across several industries, such as;
o Housing
o Construction
o Renewable energy
o Agricultural
o Warehousing
o Manufacturing
o Mining and drilling
o Military
o Automotive
o Landscaping
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A FLATBED TRAILER?
There are several benefits to using a flatbed trailer for your freight. With a flatbed trailer, there is dimensional flexibility for loading or unloading freight since there are no physical walls or a ceiling to restrict its use. Any cargo that is oddly sized or irregular-shaped can be easily moved with a flatbed trailer.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF USING A FLATBED TRAILER?
When selecting the type of trailer your freight needs, you should know the disadvantages of each. Compared to traditional hauls, all flatbeds take considerable skill, effort, and time.
Since there are no physical walls to restrain freight, cargo securement and balance are two significant concerns with flatbeds. The FMCSA has a lengthy section in rules specifically for securement, as insecure cargo is a serious safety hazard.
Proper securement is needed for your freight too because if not done correctly, your freight can get damaged from the securement itself. Also, shipments often shift some during transportation, so even weight distribution and securement are necessary.
Another disadvantage to flatbed trailers is that there are no physical walls. It’s a positive for loading and unloading. Still, it can also be a negative as no enclosure means dealing with the elements (wind, rain, snow, sun, animal or human interference, truck smoke/smog, dust, and road debris). To combat this, there is the option of tarping your freight or using a Conestoga trailer.
There are even more significant risks and responsibilities with any oversized freight as these shipments have even more strict regulations to follow.
Looking for all you need to know about Over-Dimensional Shipping?
FLATBED SHIPPING TIPS
Know your cargo
Be sure to know all the details of your shipment. This includes commodities, value, dimensions, and weight. This information will help logistics providers know how to properly secure your cargo ahead of time.
Understand what trailer you’ll need
Familiarize yourself with the different types of flatbed trailers before booking a shipment so you can make the most cost-effective and safe choice. Each type of flatbed trailer has certain limitations. For example, a specific flatbed trailer like extended trailers and Conestogas can be harder to find so your provider may need advanced notice when they are required.
Be aware of accessorial charges
Flatbed shipping may involve moving specialized loads which can need special equipment or extra services. Make sure you have the proper equipment and services needed for your freight to avoid extra charges, freight damage, or delays.
Choose to work with an expert
Arranging flatbed shipments on your own can be time-consuming and expensive, making sure all regulations are met and your cargo travels safely. Consider working with an expert in flatbed shipping to help secure capacity and locate the right equipment for your freight.
FLATBED RATES AND SEASONALITY
Freight shipping demand, which includes flatbed demand, is something that is often based seasonally. No matter the market, shipping rates fluctuate throughout the year and rise as the demand for freight rises.
Flatbed shipping is very closely connected to construction and industrial production, which can be highly dependent on the weather. These industries often slow down in the winter months, so normally, the demand for flatbed shipping will soften at the end of the year.
Smaller to medium-sized companies often slow down during winter and resume activity when warmer weather returns. However, larger companies are affected less by the seasonality and continue to move their commodities regardless of the time of the year.
Because of the seasonal rise and fall, you’ll find volume and rates lowest in the late fall/early winter, with the peak flatbed season being from April to October. This is when the volume of flatbed loads is highest, as are the rates.
FLATBED SHIPPING WITH TRINITY LOGISTICS
Did you know Trinity Logistics is an industry leader in brokering flatbed freight to small and midsize carriers throughout North America?
Our vast network of Independent Freight Agents, combined with our Regional Service Centers deliver the best-in-class flatbed shipping through our expert carrier relationships. We accomplish this by supporting core energy and infrastructure clients with their project-based, unique, and often specialized freight.
Learn more about Trinity's servicesWe depend on the energy supply chain so that our everyday lives can run smoothly. We need energy to heat and cool our homes, light our office buildings, move freight, and more. As the world continues to combat climate change, renewable energy is quickly growing as an energy source for our daily lives.
Every industry has its own set of challenges, and the renewable energy sector is no different. Detail shipping arrangements, safety, and visibility can all be challenging elements of renewable energy shipments. A third-party logistics company (3PL) can help find solutions to your shipping problems so you can make sure your freight is successfully delivered.
An Eye for Detail
Solar energy in the U.S. is booming. In just the last decade, solar has had an average annual growth rate of 49 percent! As sales continue to increase, so does the amount of freight shipments. The shipment of solar panels, or renewable elements in general, requires an eye for detail and prior knowledge on how to handle them. Renewable energy freight needs specific packaging and proper handling to protect them from damage and shipping hazards.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a widely accepted manual pertaining to the handling of photovoltaics (another term for solar or PV) panels. This is because there are many PV manufacturers in the renewable energy industry that create all types of panels, and all need to be handled differently.
Since there is no standardized manual, choosing a 3PL with knowledge and experience on arranging renewable energy shipments is crucial. Due to their fragile nature, solar freight can be expensive to ship. You’re going to want a team that knows your industry, has an extensive carrier network that will safely deliver your freight, and pays attention to detail.
Safety First
Safety is a top priority when shipping renewable energy. Freight such as hydroelectric turbine blades or wind turbines requires special care. With the over-dimensional nature of turbines, an expert that specializes in heavy haul shipments is imperative.
Majority of the accidents that occur when shipping wind energy or hydrodynamic power is a result of human error. Shipping this specific freight requires experience and education. Choosing to work with a 3PL helps you put safety and compliance first and finds ways to safely reduce costs.
Increasing Visibility
The renewable energy industry can be complex and time sensitive. Multi-process operations require a lot of data storage and memory. Increasing visibility in the energy supply chain will provide aid for these challenges. One way to gain visibility in your supply chain is through a Transportation Management System (TMS). Any shipment tracking, consolidation tools, or business intelligence for reporting is all available at the shipper’s fingertips. Partnering with a 3PL with an advanced TMS can help give complete visibility into analytics and reporting. By providing the technology needed to best manage your supply chain processes all while offering expertise in arranging shipments in the renewable energy industry, Trinity Logistics has the resources to make your shipping challenges a bit easier to manage.
Shipping renewable energy is a whole other ball game. Attention to detail, safety, and visibility are required for everything to move efficiently through the supply chain. Make the choice to outsource to a 3PL, like Trinity Logistics, who understands your unique challenges and how to face them.
Learn more about how Trinity can handle your renewable energy freight safely and efficiently.
Author: Victoria Dalton
The shipment of over-dimensional and/or heavy haul freight requires a special expertise! Luckily, many of our Trinity Team Members and Authorized Agents specialize in over-dimensional shipments. We decided to ask them to share some of their extensive knowledge in this industry with us so we could offer you several tips to keep in mind when shipping heavy haul. Keep reading to learn about how to handle your shipments as smoothly as possible.
Time is on your Side
The more notice you can provide of an upcoming over-dimensional shipment, the better. Loads such as bulldozers, excavators, and graders often require specialized equipment that can be in limited supply. By notifying your carrier or logistics provider well in advance, they can get to work on getting the right equipment in position. Always remember, time is money!
Along with providing an advanced notice on these shipments, you’ll also need to coordinate the logistics upfront. The specialized equipment used for heavy haul shipping is expensive and in high demand. If there are any delays in getting the truck loaded or unloaded, there may be significant detention charges. Timing is everything, so be sure to communicate the needs for these shipments in advance in order to avoid those charges.
Information is King
Knowing the exact information regarding your heavy haul shipping is extremely important, especially in regard to getting permits. You should know the length, width, height, and weight of the shipment. You’ll also need to provide the make, model, and serial number if applicable. Educate yourself on permit requirements and heavy haul dimensions so that your shipment process runs smoothly.
Know the State Regulations
The issuance of permits for over-dimensional shipments is handled by each individual state. Some handle these requests promptly, while others are slower. As a general rule, the bigger the shipment, the longer it will take. The state will also decide which routes the truck must follow, as well as determine if there are any travel restrictions in terms of hours or days. Often times, weekend and nighttime travel is restricted. Prepare yourself by looking into state restrictions and permits so you can be better equipped to ship your heavy haul.
Tarp Troubles
Please know if your load will require tarping! Over-Dimensional loads will often require more tarps than the typical truck carries. If your shipping partner is aware of this upfront, they can be sure the truck will have the necessary tarps. Large and/or odd-sized pieces will be difficult for even the best drivers to tarp by themselves. Any assistance you can offer is appreciated, even if it’s simply a safe place out of the elements. Being aware of these elements of over-dimensional and heavy haul freight can help ensure your freight arrives at its destination in a safe and timely manner.
Build Relationships
Build a relationship with an experienced logistics provider, like Trinity, to help save you time and money. Finding the right carrier and equipment to haul your over-dimensional shipment can be difficult, so that’s why we do it for you. Trinity’s diverse carrier network gives you access to find a carrier that will fit to your shipment’s specific needs.
Trinity Logistics stands at the ready to help with all your heavy haul and over-dimensional shipments. Our team is well-prepared to make sure your freight arrives in a smooth and timely manner.
If you’d like to request a quote for an over-dimensional or heavy haul shipment,
CLICK HEREOriginally posted September 24th, 2013. Updated by Tori Dalton.