Introduction
The lowboy trailer is a key tool in heavy equipment transport. It stands out in the world of trailer types because of its unique design for oversized freight. This trailer has a low deck height and a strong build. These features help it carry large equipment, heavy machinery, and tall cargo with ease. The lowboy is made to last, be safe, and do the job well. There may be other trailer types, but the lowboy is often what construction crews and companies pick first. They go for the lowboy when they need to move heavy equipment and large machinery safely and quickly.
Understanding Lowboy Truck Trailers
Lowboy truck trailers stand out because they have a very low trailer bed. This design helps them carry tall and heavy cargo with ease. They have two drop points in deck height—one after the gooseneck and the other before the rear axles. Because of this, you can use a lowboy to move machinery that is up to 12 feet tall.
The lower centre of gravity gives the trailer more stability. This stability is important when you need to move heavy equipment over long distances. Lowboy trailers come in different configurations to handle many types of loads. They are a good choice for heavy equipment transport, especially when there is a need to deal with trailer bed and deck height limits. For jobs where height matters, these trailers help get the machinery to their place without risk or trouble.
Key Features of Lowboy Trailers
Lowboy trailers give you many features that are great for moving heavy loads and large equipment. Here are some of the main benefits:
- Exceptional Deck Height: The trailer bed is set low, sometimes only 18 inches above the ground. This lets you move tall cargo that might not fit on other trailers. It also helps you carry these goods in a way that is safe and legal.
- Axle Flexibility: You can also add more axles if you need to. This raises the weight capacity from 40,000 pounds on trailers with two axles up to 80,000 pounds.
- Drop Ramps: Built-in ramps make it simple to load and unload large construction equipment. This can save time and cut down on hard work.
- Robust Weight Handling: These lowboy trailers are made strong to move construction equipment like bulldozers across long distances.
All of these features give the lowboy trailer true versatility for use in construction, forestry, and other types of shipping. The adaptable design ensures your freight—even oversized freight—makes it to its destination smoothly, no matter how hard the job.
How Lowboy Trailers Differ from Other Trailer Types
Lowboy trailers differ significantly from other trailer types, such as flatbeds, in terms of structure and capabilities. Here’s a detailed comparison in the table to highlight notable distinctions:
| Feature | Flatbed Trailer | Lowboy Trailer |
| Height of the Trailer | Typically 5 feet off the ground | Around 18 inches above ground |
| Legal Freight Height | Up to 8.5 feet | Between 11.5 to 12 feet |
| Weight of Trailer | 6,000-12,000 lbs | 15,000-18,000 lbs for conventional models |
| Main Function | Versatile transport for wide loads | Heavy and oversized machinery transportation |
These differences make lowboy trailers ideal for heavy equipment transport, while flatbeds are best for wider, irregular cargo. The lower deck height of lowboys enhances stability, especially for tall loads, making them perfect for navigating rough terrain.
Types of Lowboy Trailers for Heavy Equipment Transport
Lowboy trailers are made in different configurations to help move many types of equipment. Fixed gooseneck trailers are light and have drop ramps, so it is easier to load and unload freight.
Removable gooseneck (RGN) trailers use special parts, like a hydraulic system. This lets you take off the gooseneck. People use them when loading rolling machines or gear that is big and hard to lift.
Stretch lowboy trailers are best when you need to move oversized freight. These will fit longer or taller equipment that other trailers may not carry. It is good to look at the cargo and think about what you need to do before picking which lowboy configuration to use.
Fixed Gooseneck vs. Removable Gooseneck Designs
The gooseneck lowboy trailer comes in different types. Each type has its own benefits. The Fixed Gooseneck (FGN) trailer, for example, has a longer deck and is light. This makes it good for carrying equipment using drop ramps.
Removable Gooseneck (RGN) trailers offer more versatility. The hydraulic detachable gooseneck lets drivers lower the trailer. This helps a lot when loading big or heavy machinery. Because you can change the height, this type of lowboy works well for tall machines too.
FGNs are small and work well if you do not need many extras. But RGNs can handle jobs that need more flexibility. Many in the industry choose removable trailers when they are involved in heavy equipment transport. This is because a lowboy with a detachable gooseneck can adjust to different needs and be used for all types of machinery.
Stretch and Custom Lowboy Trailer Options
Stretch and custom lowboy trailers are made to help with moving large and heavy freight that is oversized. These trailers have a longer lower deck, which is usually between 25 and 29 feet long. This makes it easy to load and move bigger pieces of equipment.
- Stretch Trailers: These are best for heavy loads that are too long for regular trailers, so your cargo does not hang out during the trip.
- Custom Lowboys: These can be changed to fit your own transport needs. They give you different ways to move different types of freight or machinery.
- Versatility for Long Distances: These trailers are built strong to keep your load steady even when you go over long distances or through tough and different places.
- Oversized Freight Handling: They are made for moving big machines or special freight, and they follow the road rules.
With custom and stretch lowboy trailers, you get more ways to handle heavy loads and long hauls. This makes work safer and better for moving lots of different types of oversized freight and machinery with good results.
Conclusion
To sum up, lowboy truck trailers are made to move heavy loads and heavy equipment in a safe and smart way. The trailers have a low deck height and come in different configurations. This makes them good for moving things that other trailers can not carry well. When you know about the types of lowboy trailers, like the ones with a fixed gooseneck or custom configurations, you can pick the one that suits what you need to do. When you look at your choices, remember that the right trailer can help you work better and faster. If you want to find out more about what lowboy trailers can do for you, get in touch for a talk.
