Flatbed trailer: the smart choice for flexible trailer transport
Anyone who regularly transports goods between the Netherlands, the UK, Belgium, or Germany will sooner or later come across a load that doesn’t fit in a standard box trailer. Think of large machines, steel, construction materials, or pallets that are taller than usual — or loads with irregular shapes. In such cases, a flatbed trailer often proves to be the perfect solution.
What exactly is a flatbed trailer?
A flatbed trailer is a semi-trailer without fixed walls or a roof. The floor is flat, and the sides and top are completely open. This allows the load to be easily loaded and unloaded from the top, the sides, or even the rear.
The main advantage is flexibility — you’re not limited by the internal dimensions of a box trailer or curtain sider. Even loads that extend beyond the standard size or are extra long can fit perfectly on a flatbed.
An important component of the flatbed trailer is the chassis. This sturdy framework provides the necessary strength and stability, making it possible to transport heavy and irregularly shaped loads safely.
Which types of cargo are ideal for flatbed transport?
At EASY Road, we receive daily requests for loads that don’t fit in a standard trailer. Examples include:
- Steel beams or pipes
- Wood, prefab concrete elements, or fencing structures
- Large industrial machines
- Construction materials on oversized pallets
- Containers, generators, or other machinery mounted on skids
Time pressure often plays a role — for example, in urgent construction or industrial projects. With a flatbed trailer, loading and unloading can be arranged quickly, without wasting expensive crane time on maneuvering or adjustments.
The advantages of flatbed trailers
The biggest advantage is flexibility. A flatbed trailer provides full access to the load from all sides, which saves time during loading and unloading. It also helps prevent damage, as forklifts or cranes can easily reach the cargo. In addition, the dimensions are less restrictive than those of enclosed trailers.
Another major advantage: with a flatbed trailer, you can easily transport loads that extend beyond standard dimensions. Think of lengths up to 13–14 meters or wider materials that may extend beyond the trailer — naturally within legal limits.
The open chassis ensures that even loads with unusual weights or dimensions can be transported safely. This makes flatbed transport the ultimate solution for logistical challenges where standard trailers fall short.
When should you choose a flatbed trailer?
A flatbed trailer is ideal when your cargo is not sensitive to weather conditions. Keep in mind that a flatbed is open — rain, wind, and dust can reach the load freely. For many industrial materials, this is not an issue. However, if you’re transporting electronic equipment, paint, paper, or food products, a closed trailer is usually the smarter choice.
In the construction sector, for project cargo, or during machinery relocations, clients often deliberately choose a flatbed — simply because alternatives would make the job unnecessarily complicated or expensive.
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Key considerations when transporting with a flatbed trailer
A flatbed trailer has no side walls or roof, meaning your cargo is completely exposed. Important points to keep in mind include:
- Regulations: Exceptional transport (extra wide, long, or heavy loads) may require permits, escorts, or special markings.
- Protection against weather conditions: Cargo may get wet. In many cases, covering it with a tarpaulin is sufficient — but always check whether your goods are suitable for that.
- Load security: Always ensure proper load securing — EASY Road works with experienced carriers who know exactly what is legally required and what is safe.
Dimensions and specifications of a flatbed cargo trailer
A standard flatbed trailer is approximately 13.6 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. The floor height is usually around 1.3 meters, with a maximum payload capacity of 24 to 27 tons, depending on the trailer type and chassis. With the appropriate permits, cargo is often allowed to extend slightly beyond the sides or the rear, providing extra space for exceptional transport.
There are also versions with extendable floors (extendable flatbeds) for transporting even longer loads. Feel free to ask us about the possibilities if you have a special project in mind.
Flatbed transport: flexible long-distance shipping
Flatbed transport is perfectly suited for international shipments between the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Germany. Because the trailers are open and the chassis is extra reinforced, large or bulky items can be transported easily — items that would otherwise be difficult to deliver to their destination. Especially for projects where speed, flexibility, and customization are essential, using flatbed trailers is often the most efficient choice.
At EASY Road Transport, we handle the entire transport process — from selecting the right chassis to organizing safe loading and arranging permits. Whether it’s a few pallets or complete machinery, we make sure your cargo is transported quickly and safely.
Flatbed truck transport at EASY Road
At EASY Road, everything revolves around speed, transparency, and a personal approach. We don’t just arrange the right type of trailer — we also think along with you about the best loading plan, the fastest route, and any permits required for wide or long transport. You’ll have a dedicated contact person: no automated menus or anonymous customer service, but direct contact with someone who knows exactly what’s going on.
Our partners are experienced in safely securing cargo using tension straps, chains, and blocks — preventing damage and delays along the way. You’ll receive updates throughout the transport, ensuring that you and your customer are always informed.
Customs, permits, and extras: we take care of it all
Transporting goods to the UK with a flatbed trailer? Then you’ll be dealing not only with additional paperwork but sometimes also with special permits for exceptional transport. EASY Road Transport takes care of all the necessary documentation and guides you through complex shipments, helping you avoid unexpected delays at the border or en route.
Chassis and safety: essential aspects of flatbed trailers
The chassis of a flatbed trailer is the foundation that everything relies on. For the safe and responsible transport of heavy or irregular loads, a strong and certified chassis is essential. EASY Road works exclusively with partners who maintain their equipment properly and have it inspected annually, ensuring that your transport runs smoothly. Whether you’re moving steel, machinery, or prefab elements, a robust chassis provides the reliability you need for international transport.
What does it cost?
The cost of flatbed transport depends on the route, the type of cargo, and any additional permits required. Want to know exactly what to expect? At EASY Road, you’ll quickly receive a clear and transparent quote — with no hidden surprises. We think along with you to find the smartest logistical solution, so you can focus on your core business.
Renting a flatbed trailer through EASY Road Transport
Whether you need one-time project transport or are looking for a reliable partner for regular routes between the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, or the United Kingdom, EASY Road always has a suitable solution. With our extensive fleet of curtain-sided trailers and our network of trusted partners for flatbed transport, we offer maximum flexibility and speed.
The flatbed trailer is the ideal solution for loads that don’t fit in a standard trailer due to their size, weight, or shape. With an open trailer, you choose maximum flexibility and fast loading and unloading. EASY Road takes care of everything — from trailer selection to permits and communication. Fast, personal, and transparent, ensuring you’re never faced with unexpected surprises.
Want to know more about the possibilities of using a flatbed trailer for your transport? Get in touch with one of our specialists today, or fill in the rate calculator. We’ll be happy to think along with you!