Auto Transport Tips: Flatbed Auto Shipping Services
Flatbed auto transport is not something that you will likely have to use very often, even if you ship a lot of vehicles (for instance, if you manage an auto auction or a used car dealership). Unlike open or enclosed transportation services, flatbed shippers are not typically carriers that haul just any type of vehicle. They tend to be harder to find and more expensive because they handle specialized freight instead of standard cars and trucks. They still haul standard vehicles, but typically there’s going to be a reason to need flatbed shipping services as opposed to going with one of the standard options in open or enclosed transportation.
Flatbed auto transport trucks are generally for-hire carriers that haul specialized vehicles. These vehicles tend to be those that are too tall or wide to fit on a standard open or enclosed auto transport carrier, and there are quite a few on the road today. Many times, oversized pickup trucks and cargo vans, as well as specialized vehicles such as construction equipment, will require flatbed transportation. Trucks can be too tall to fit on an open carrier because their height makes it impossible to load into the bottom rack of a standard ten-car carrier, and are too tall to fit under the height restrictions set by the government. Trucks sitting on the top rack of a transport carrier have to still be able to fit under overpasses, which sometimes don’t sit very high at all.
Unfortunately, because of the nature of flatbed transportation services, they are generally more expensive and harder to find, which makes it more expensive for you. They aren’t a part of the standard shipping services, though any auto transport company will be able to find a flatbed shipper for you. Like we said, it depends a lot on what you’re shipping, which is why if you’re shipping something that is taller than a standard car, truck or SUV, you’ll want to make note of it. Have the dimensions of any large vehicle you are trying to ship on-hand and ready to give to your auto transport agent, so they can properly quote your order and find the right carrier for you. Flatbed transporters may be more expensive and take more time, but for some vehicles they’re the only way to transport them.
If you’re interested in shipping a vehicle and are looking for a quote to help you get started, make sure to take a minute and fill out our free online auto transport quote request form. When you do, you’ll receive a free quote instantly. No waiting, no games, just a free quote. From there, you can book your shipment right there online, or give us a call to get started. You can call us any time at 800-930-7417 to speak to an agent. They can answer your questions, give you a quote, book your shipment, and more. So no matter what you’re shipping, let American Auto Shipping help you get it done.
Since 2007 Dave has written all the content and blogs for American Auto Shipping and during this time added the duties of customer support and transport logistics.
He currently resides in Washington with his three kids and their mom and cat. A fan of Marvel movies and good stories, when not shipping cars Dave can be found working on his novel, enjoying a good book or playing some tournament HALO.
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