Flatbed Auto Shipping Carriers

Which Types of Vehicles Utilize Flatbed Auto Transport Services?

Examples of oversize vehicles include commercial vehicles, small RVs, school buses, shuttle vans, cargo vans, large pickup trucks, special construction vehicles, and oversize, inoperable, or damaged cars.

Additionally, this type of transport is necessary for oversized specialized vehicles. This category would encompass extensively modified off-road vehicles and big pickup trucks that exceed 8 feet in height and 9 feet in width.

What Types of Flatbed Trailers are There?

A flatbed shipping carrier can be found in various configurations. Each one is designed to handle specific types of loads. Some of the most commonly used types of flatbed carriers in vehicle shipping include:

Step decks: Step deck trailers, also called drop deck trailers, consist of two deck levels, with the rear deck positioned lower than the front deck. This feature enables the transportation of taller loads without violating height restrictions.

Double drops: Double drop trailers have three deck levels, where the front and rear decks are positioned higher than the middle deck. This trailer is specifically designed for transporting tall cargo that requires rear loading.

Enclosed trailers: These trailers protect against weather conditions and are suitable for transporting delicate or valuable cargo. High-value products such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or luxury vehicles are frequently shipped using them.

Conestoga trailers: The trailers are equipped with a retractable tarping system that allows for convenient loading and unloading of cargo by opening from the top. These structures protect against weather conditions and are suitable for transporting large or irregularly shaped goods.

What is the Cost of  Flatbed Hauling?

The cost of flatbed auto transport varies based on the distance traveled. The cost of shorter routes can range from $1.25 to $2.50 per mile. Longer journeys can vary from $0.75 to $1.50 per mile.

The main factors determining the cost of flatbed auto transport services are the vehicle's weight, size, and condition.

Flatbed vehicle transport is typically more expensive than conventional auto transport. This is because the mileage cost is divided among fewer vehicles, compared to regular carriers that can accommodate 9-10 vehicles. Flatbeds can transport one, two, or three cars at a time.

What is the Flatbed Car Transport Cost?

The flatbed car transport cost varies based on the distance traveled. The cost of shorter routes can range from $1.25 to $2.50 per mile. Longer journeys can vary from $0.75 to $1.50 per mile. The main factors determining the cost of flatbed auto transport services are the vehicle's weight, size, and condition.

Flatbed vehicle transport is typically more expensive than conventional auto transport. This is because the mileage cost is divided among fewer vehicles, compared to regular carriers that can accommodate 9-10 vehicles. Flatbeds can transport one, two, or three cars at a time.

How Long Does it Typically Take for a Flatbed Transport Truck to Complete a Journey?

There is a significantly smaller number of flatbed shipping carriers compared to conventional ones. As a result, wait times are expected to increase in certain areas. Flatbed auto transport services typically take 1 to 7 days to complete the loading process.

Documentation for Flatbed Auto Transport Services

When it comes to transporting cars using a flatbed, there are two essential documents that you must obtain. The following are the terms and conditions for your car insurance policy and vehicle title (V5C). These terms and conditions pertain to insurance coverage for your vehicle.

In addition, haulers may also request a copy of the bill of sale and a copy of your ID card to finalize the shipping contract and arrange for flatbed auto transport. The carrier typically takes care of handling other paperwork.

Flatbed auto transport is the most beneficial option for transporting large or extra-heavy loads, including various vehicles.

This option provides hauling services using special open-deck trucks and trailers with no boards. As a result, not all types of cars can be accommodated using this method.

Flatbed car shipping is a good choice for transporting non-standard vehicles or vehicles that do not fall under the category of cars.

Regarding rates, there are certain pitfalls to consider when considering hiring a flatbed car transport service. Flatbed auto transport rates are higher than booking an enclosed truck or an open-deck one.

A limited number of flatbed operators are available in the market. As a result, there may be instances where you have to wait for an available time slot to book their services.

Additionally, it is essential to carefully review flatbed transportation services' terms and conditions before booking. You should also pay great attention to documentation.

Claiming that flatbed auto shipping is inferior to other services would be inaccurate. Flatbed vehicle transport may be the only viable option in some instances, such as when a vehicle is oversized, overweight, or non-standard.

What Can Be Transported on Flatbed Trailers?

Car owners often require flatbed transportation services when they need to transport cars that have non-standard dimensions. Specialized versions of military vehicles, boats, yachts, mobile homes, trailers, and school buses are a few examples of these vehicles. Typically, anything that doesn't fit on a standard dry deck or open trailer.

Additionally, it is common for flatbed trucks to transport cars following accidents or when transporting damaged equipment that does not require a closed body for transportation.

Benefits of Using Flatbed Auto Transport Services

Flatbed car shipping provides numerous advantages compared to alternative vehicle transportation methods. There are some essential benefits to think about:

Versatility: Flatbed carriers can transport vehicles, such as cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and even heavy equipment. Flatbed trailers have an open design that offers flexibility when loading and unloading vehicles of various sizes and shapes.

Safety: Flatbed carriers offer a reliable and safe mode of transportation for vehicles. The lack of enclosed walls minimizes the chances of any damage due to cramped spaces or contact with other cars while in transit. In addition, flatbeds are commonly equipped with tie-downs and straps to guarantee that vehicles stay stable and securely fastened during the entire journey.

Accessibility: Flatbed trailers offer a distinct advantage in terms of accessibility. Loading and unloading vehicles is relatively more straightforward when compared to other methods, such as enclosed carriers or multi-level transporters. This can be especially advantageous for cars that are not operational or have low ground clearance, as they can be effortlessly maneuvered onto the flatbed.

Visibility: Flatbed shipping offers improved vehicle visibility due to its open nature. Drivers and shippers can visually inspect the vehicles during transit, ensuring their security and confirming that they remain undamaged.

Cost-effective: Flatbed shipping is a viable and economical, particularly for shorter distances or when moving multiple vehicles simultaneously. The simplicity of the design and the ease of loading and unloading help reduce transportation costs compared to more specialized methods.

Customizable: Flatbed carriers provide a range of customization options to meet specific requirements. For instance, these trailers can be equipped with detachable sides or extensions to accommodate the transportation of oversized or irregularly shaped vehicles. The flexibility of flatbed shipping makes it a suitable option for various transportation needs.

Timeliness: Flatbed transport generally provides faster transit times than alternative rail transport or ocean shipping methods. The direct transportation route and simplified loading and unloading process contribute to faster delivery times, particularly for shorter distances.