Flatbed Freight Shipping
Open-deck capacity for heavy, oversized and irregular loads.
ANKA UNITED INC arranges flatbed, step deck and specialized open-deck capacity for steel, lumber, machinery, building materials and other freight that will not fit in an enclosed trailer.
When your freight needs an open deck
Flatbed trailers have no sides or roof, so freight can be loaded from the top or sides with a crane or forklift. That makes flatbeds the right choice for heavy, bulky or oddly shaped freight that cannot be loaded through the back of an enclosed trailer.
Flatbed freight must be properly secured with straps, chains or other securement, and some loads require tarps for weather protection. Taller loads can move on a step deck trailer, and loads that exceed legal size or weight limits need specialized equipment and permits. For enclosed freight, see our truckload service.
- Top and side loading. Ideal for crane and forklift loading.
- Securement and tarping. Loads secured and tarped when required.
- Step deck for taller freight. A lower deck allows taller loads within legal height.
- Oversize and overweight options. Specialized equipment and permit coordination when needed.
- Job site deliveries. Coordination for construction and project sites.
Choosing the right trailer
Capacities are typical guidelines. Actual limits depend on the equipment, axle configuration and state regulations.
| Equipment | Best for | Typical guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Flatbed (48′ or 53′) | Steel, lumber, pipe, building materials and palletized freight needing side loading | Up to about 44,000 to 48,000 lbs; legal freight height about 8’6″ |
| Step Deck | Taller freight such as machinery and equipment | Lower rear deck allows legal freight height of about 10′ |
| Specialized (RGN / lowboy) | Heavy equipment and oversized loads | Arranged case by case, with permits for oversize or overweight moves |
Common flatbed freight
Steel and metals
Coils, beams, plate, pipe and other metal products for manufacturing and construction.
Lumber and building materials
Lumber, trusses, roofing and other materials for builders and suppliers.
Machinery and equipment
Industrial machinery, agricultural equipment and components.
Construction projects
Project freight delivered to job sites on a set schedule.
Energy and infrastructure
Pipe, poles, transformers and other infrastructure materials.
Oversized loads
Freight that exceeds legal dimensions, arranged with specialized equipment and permits.
Common questions about flatbed shipping
What can be shipped on a flatbed?
Flatbeds carry freight that is heavy, bulky or irregularly shaped, such as steel, lumber, pipe, machinery and building materials, especially loads that need to be loaded from the top or sides.
What is the difference between a flatbed and a step deck?
A standard flatbed has a single flat deck. A step deck has a lower rear deck, which allows taller freight to be hauled while staying within legal height limits.
Do you handle oversized loads?
Yes. Loads that exceed legal size or weight limits can be arranged with specialized equipment and the required permits. Share the dimensions and weight so we can review the options.
Does my load need to be tarped?
It depends on the freight. Many products, such as lumber and some steel, require tarps to protect them from weather. Let us know your tarping requirements when you request a quote.
Is ANKA UNITED INC a carrier or a broker?
ANKA UNITED INC is a freight brokerage. We arrange flatbed transportation with independent, authorized motor carriers and coordinate the shipment on your behalf.
Tell us about your shipment.
Send us the pickup and delivery locations, commodity, weight, dimensions, equipment needs and timing. Our team will review your requirements and follow up with a quote and available capacity.
- Phone
- 470-380-6728
- info@ankaunitedinc.com
- Office
- 168 Northfield Cir, Dawsonville, GA 30534
- Hours
- 24/7 dispatch and support
