Transporting heavy equipment requires careful planning, precise logistics, and the right equipment. One of the most common mistakes in heavy haul transport is selecting the wrong trailer type. Choosing incorrectly can increase costs dramatically, delay projects, and even put personnel or equipment at risk. For example, a transport that could cost $2,000 may escalate to $6,000—or more—if the wrong trailer is selected, or if the equipment simply won’t fit on loading day.
Understanding the differences between flatbed, lowboy, and RGN trailers is crucial for both cost-effectiveness and safety. Each trailer type has its unique specifications, ideal applications, and load capacities. This guide provides a comprehensive, detailed look at these trailers, helping you make an informed decision for your heavy equipment transport needs.
Learn more about our Heavy Haul Services for expert equipment transport solutions.
Why Trailer Selection Is Critical
Selecting the right trailer is not just about fitting your equipment—it’s about safety, compliance, and project efficiency. Here’s why:
- Safety: Using a trailer with insufficient weight capacity or height clearance can cause accidents, equipment damage, or road hazards.
- Legal Compliance: Oversized or overweight loads often require permits and escorts. Incorrect trailer selection may violate state and federal regulations.
- Cost Efficiency: The wrong trailer can drastically increase transport costs, requiring specialized equipment or extra labor.
- Project Timelines: Delays in equipment arrival due to improper trailer choice can halt construction or industrial operations.
With these factors in mind, choosing the correct trailer ensures that your heavy equipment arrives safely, legally, and on time.
Flatbed Trailers: The Versatile Workhorse
Flatbed trailers are the most widely used trailers in heavy equipment transport. Their open, flat deck design allows loading from any direction, accommodating equipment of various sizes and shapes. Flatbeds are a cost-effective choice for many standard equipment transport jobs.
Specifications
- Deck height: ~5 feet from the ground
- Length: 48–53 feet
- Width: 8.5 feet (standard legal width)
- Weight capacity: Typically up to 48,000 lbs
- Total legal weight: 80,000 lbs, including truck, trailer, and cargo
Advantages
Flatbed trailers offer several advantages:
- Cost-effective: Rates are typically 30–50% lower than lowboy or RGN trailers.
- Flexible loading: Equipment can be loaded from the sides or rear.
- Availability: Flatbeds are more common and easier to source.
- Minimal permit requirements: Standard loads often do not need oversize permits.
Ideal Applications
- Compact excavators under 25,000 lbs
- Small skid steers and compact track loaders
- Construction materials such as steel beams, lumber, or concrete panels
- Vehicles and smaller machinery
- Industrial equipment within weight and height limits
Example: A construction company needed to transport 15 small skid steers to a job site. Using flatbeds reduced costs by 40% compared to lowboy trailers, and no oversize permits were required.
Considerations
While flatbeds are versatile, they are limited by height and weight restrictions. Equipment exceeding 13.5 feet in overall height or 40,000 lbs may require a lowboy or RGN trailer.
For federal regulations on heavy equipment transport, visit the Federal Highway Administration.
Lowboy Trailers: The Heavy Equipment Specialist
Lowboy trailers are designed for taller or heavier machinery. With a dropped deck, the trailer reduces overall height, allowing equipment to pass under bridges or overpasses while staying within legal limits.
Specifications
- Deck height: 18–24 inches
- Well depth: Extra clearance for tall equipment
- Length: 24–29 feet for the well, total up to 53 feet
- Width: 8.5 feet standard, expandable to 10–12 feet
- Weight capacity: 40,000–80,000 lbs
- Axle configuration: 2–5 axles depending on load
Advantages
- Handles taller and heavier machinery safely
- Reduces the need for oversized permits on many routes
- Provides better load stability
- Safer for roads with low-clearance obstacles
Ideal Applications
- Mid-size to large excavators (30,000–80,000 lbs)
- Bulldozers and track-type tractors
- Wheel loaders and backhoes
- Cranes and aerial equipment
- Agricultural equipment like combines and tractors
Example: A mining company transported a 55,000-lb excavator across multiple states. Using a lowboy trailer allowed the machine to clear low bridges without needing special permits, saving time and money.
Cost Considerations
Lowboy trailers are more expensive than flatbeds due to their specialized design and reduced availability. Transport costs typically range from $4,000–$6,000 for standard routes.
RGN Trailers: Maximum Capacity and Flexibility
RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailers are the ultimate solution for superheavy or oversized equipment. Their detachable gooseneck allows drive-on loading without cranes or ramps.
Specifications
- Deck height: 18–24 inches
- Length: Up to 53 feet, extendable to 80+ feet
- Width: 8.5 feet standard, expandable to 12+ feet
- Weight capacity: 80,000–150,000+ lbs
- Axle configuration: 8–20 axles, depending on load
Advantages
- Capable of transporting extremely heavy or oversized equipment
- Drive-on loading eliminates crane dependency
- Supports long, wide, or tall equipment
- Specialized axles improve weight distribution and stability
Ideal Applications
- Large excavators over 80,000 lbs
- Mining haul trucks
- Large dozers and motor graders
- Industrial transformers and generators
- Bridge beams and structural components
Example: A bridge construction project needed to move a 120,000-lb steel girder. Using an RGN trailer allowed direct drive-on loading without cranes, reducing labor and risk.
Cost Considerations
RGN trailers are the most expensive option, with typical transport costs starting at $8,000 and increasing with distance and load complexity.
Learn about our Heavy Equipment Transport Services.
Comparing Flatbed, Lowboy & RGN Trailers
Choosing the right trailer requires evaluating:
- Equipment weight and dimensions
- Route restrictions (bridges, clearances, road conditions)
- Permit requirements and costs
- Loading/unloading capabilities
- Budget considerations
| Trailer Type | Weight Limit | Height Limit | Cost Range | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flatbed | <40,000 lbs | <13.5 ft | $2,000–$3,500 | Small/medium equipment |
| Lowboy | 40,000–80,000 lbs | 13.5–17 ft | $4,000–$6,000 | Taller/heavier equipment |
| RGN | >80,000 lbs | Unlimited | $8,000+ | Oversized/superloads |
Tip: Correct trailer selection saves thousands, reduces risk, and ensures smooth project timelines.
Route Planning and Permits
Route planning is essential for heavy haul transport. Consider:
- Bridge heights and weight limits
- Road width and curvature
- State and federal permit requirements
- Escort vehicles for oversized loads
Permits are often required for overweight or oversized loads, and regulations vary by state. Proper planning prevents costly delays or rerouting.
For state-specific permits, visit the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
Safety Considerations
Transporting heavy equipment safely involves:
- Correct trailer selection for weight and height
- Proper securing with chains, binders, and tie-downs
- Balanced weight distribution
- Skilled operators for loading and transport
- Regular inspection of trailers and securing equipment
Avoid sudden braking, sharp turns, and uneven roads, which can destabilize loads. Safety protocols not only protect equipment but also ensure compliance with legal regulations.
How to Choose the Right Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Determine Equipment Weight and Dimensions
Calculate overall height, width, and weight. Include attachments or accessories. - Assess Route Restrictions
Identify bridges, overpasses, and road width limitations. - Evaluate Trailer Options
Match equipment to trailer type:- Flatbed: under 40,000 lbs, <13.5 ft height
- Lowboy: 40,000–80,000 lbs, taller equipment
- RGN: >80,000 lbs or oversized, drive-on loads
- Calculate Cost & Permit Requirements
Include labor, permits, and potential escort vehicles. - Choose an Experienced Transport Partner
Professionals ensure correct trailer selection, secure loading, and legal compliance.
Learn more about our Heavy Haul Logistics Services.
FAQ: Flatbed, Lowboy & RGN Trailers
1. What is the most common trailer for equipment transport?
Flatbeds are versatile and cost-effective for most equipment under 40,000 lbs.
2. How do I know if I need a lowboy?
If equipment exceeds 13.5 ft in height or 40,000 lbs in weight, a lowboy is recommended.
3. When should I use an RGN trailer?
Use RGNs for equipment over 80,000 lbs or when drive-on loading is required.
4. Can cranes be transported on flatbeds?
Only small cranes that meet height and weight restrictions; larger cranes require lowboy or RGN trailers.
5. How do I secure equipment properly?
Use heavy-duty chains, binders, and tie-downs rated for the load and ensure balanced weight distribution.
6. Are permits always required?
Permits are required for overweight or oversized loads. Requirements vary by state.
7. Can heavy equipment be transported interstate?
Yes. Experienced transport companies handle permits, escorts, and legal compliance for interstate hauls.
8. What factors influence transport costs?
Weight, dimensions, trailer type, permits, distance, and route complexity.
9. How do I minimize transport costs?
Use the correct trailer, plan routes carefully, and work with a professional transport company.
10. What safety measures should I follow during transport?
Ensure secure tie-downs, balance weight, use skilled operators, and follow route restrictions and regulations.
Conclusion: Get Your Equipment Transport Right the First Time
Choosing the right trailer—flatbed, lowboy, or RGN—is critical to safe, cost-effective, and timely heavy equipment transport. By understanding specifications, ideal applications, and cost considerations, you can make the right decision and avoid delays or accidents.
At Alcazar’s Transport & Heavy Haul, we match your equipment to the optimal trailer, considering weight, dimensions, route restrictions, permits, and cost efficiency.
Get your free equipment assessment today—contact us with your equipment specifications, and our logistics experts will recommend the ideal trailer with transparent pricing.
Call (714) 305-7377 or visit Alcazar Transport for expert guidance on your next heavy equipment transport.
