Flat Deck Trailer: Goods Can Be Protected In This Way During Transportation

Flat deck trailer transport

When transporting cargo in a flat deck trailer, protecting the cargo is a top priority. Protecting cargo is easy when it is transported on a fence cargo trailer, but more needs to be done when using a flatbed semitrailer.

Use of tarpaulins

This is the most common method, and the majority of open-air loads can be protected by tarps. When properly positioned and secured, the load can be protected from inclement weather and accidental damage from dust, dirt, debris, etc. If you ship a tarp, there is an additional cost, usually between $100 and $150.

Gift wrap

Wrap merchandise on all sides with a protective tarp to avoid any type of exposure during shipping. This method is time-consuming, so it is only suitable for the most delicate open-air shipments. Since this is a more delicate packing method, as a shipper you may have to pay no less than $500 to fully wrap your flat deck trailer shipment in a tarp.

Crate

Loading goods into wooden crates is another solution. This way, the company can secure the load. The most common is to use crates to protect the cargo. However, in the event of wind, rain, snow or hail, the wooden crates can be severely damaged and will no longer be functional. Therefore, it can be used as internal padding to prevent the cargo from being crushed or bumped during transportation. However, many carriers do not offer this service, so as a shipper you will need to find some that do.

V-Plate Securing

To secure cargo in transit, carriers often use straps or chains. However, prolonged compression and repeated friction can cause damage to the cargo. To avoid this problem, carriers often use V-flags.

Use of beveled liners

There are certain commodities that can be easily moved on flat deck trailer, such as steel bars or I-beams. They can also easily damage the bed of a flatbed trailer. In such cases, a ramp liner is a good solution. Typically, beveled liners have four square edges with one angled, non-square edge. This prevents unwanted movement or slippage of the goods throughout the transportation process.