Transportation
We can move any types of merchandise. Call us to discuss your transportation needs across the country.
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We are always looking for owner-operators to join our team. If you own a truck we would love to hear from you.
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Alliance Trucking Services is a growing business, and we are always looking to hire experienced team members.
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We offer some of the most competitive prices in the transportation industry and our drivers are always happy.
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We want to keep you coming back, and that is why we insist on going above and beyond on every job that we do.
Read moreFlatbed
Freight comes in all shapes and sizes. Not everything can be neatly palletized and shipped within the dimensions of a dry van. This is where flatbed trailers come into action. Flatbed trailers allow shippers to move odd or oversized freight without issue.
Flatbed trailers are only 48 feet in length. This shortened length helps to keep a trailer within the length limits if it is carrying freight that extends over the edges of the trailer. All freight, however, cannot exceed 53 feet when it is loaded on the trailer. If it exceeds this length, a special permit will be required to move the shipment.
Flatbeds also allow shippers to load their freight using a crane or from the side of the trailer. It can also help the shipper place the freight in the right position on the trailer to accommodate weight limits. Trucks cannot exceed 80,000 pounds total weight, and they also have restrictions on how much weight can be placed on each axel.
There Are Different Types of Flatbed Trailers
There are three types of flatbed trailers. The first is a standard flatbed trailer which is just a trailer that has a base and no sides. The second and third are step deck trailers which have a portion of the trailer that is lower than the rest of the trailer to help accommodate large equipment. The difference is that one step deck trailer has one dropped area and the other has two.
Size and Weight of Flatbed Shipments
One of the largest concerns of flatbed shipping is the size and weight of the shipments. Large shipments can only extend a very small amount over the sides or the end of the trailer to remain within DOT guidelines.
The weight must be distributed according to DOT regulations, and if it exceeds the designated capacity of 80,000 pounds, special permits must be acquired to move the shipment.
Oversized loads that are overweight or oversized or both may require an escort. An escort is a vehicle that travels with the truck that works as a notification to other drivers that the truck is larger than normal and they should take caution.
These special weight or size loads may be restricted to certain roadways to move the shipment. Alliance Trucking will review all of this information with you if you have a special sized shipment.
Does My Flatbed Shipment Need To Be Tarped?
Some flatbed shipments may benefit from being tarped when they are moved. This will protect the freight from weather and road debris. Tarping may be required in some states or metro areas, depending on the freight being moved. Alliance Trucking will find out if there are any requirements for tarping concerning your load.
Some shipments cannot be tarped. Large equipment, machinery, or similar items may be too large to cover.
If You Have A Special Load That Needs A Flatbed Trailer Call Alliance Trucking
Alliance Trucking offers its clients access to all types of flatbed trailers. If you have a shipment that requires flatbed trailers, speak with our customer service reps.
We will assign you the right trailer for your needs.
