The flexible transport solution that meets almost any logistics need
Flatbed trailers are a mainstay of the logistics industry, with their open design offering unmatched versatility for hauling oversized and heavy items. Their structure allows easy loading from any direction, making them a perfect choice for bulky goods that standard trailers can’t handle. Flatbeds have a rich history, evolving from basic wooden platforms to today’s durable steel and aluminium designs that can handle extreme weights and demanding conditions. Commonly used to transport construction materials, heavy machinery, and large containers, flatbeds are true workhorses. They’re also ideal for emergency deliveries where time and accessibility are critical.
X2 (UK) offers a broad range of flatbeds, including drop-deck trailers and tilt-deck trailers, expanding the capabilities of flatbed transportation ever further. With the flexibility to load from the side, top, or rear, flatbeds provide unmatched efficiency in handling unconventional cargo.
Find the perfect flatbed to meet your needs with X2 (UK)
X2 (UK): One of the country’s leading providers of flatbed solutions
At X2 (UK), we’re dedicated to providing flexible and dependable transport options that cater to every type of business and cargo. Our flatbed trailers come with various features to accommodate a broad range of items. Whether you need the increased height advantage of drop-deck trailers or the loading ease of tilt-deck trailers, we have a flatbed to meet your requirements.
A quick guide to flatbed trailers
Standard flatbed trailers in the UK are typically 13.6 metres (45 feet) long and 1.5 metres (5 feet) high. They allow easy loading by crane, forklift, or rear entry, making them an easy solution for oversized or particularly heavy items like concrete slabs, timber, heavy machinery and vehicles.
The maximum weight allowed on a flatbed in the UK depends on axle configuration:
2-axle flatbeds: A maximum of 18,000 kg.
3-axle flatbeds: Up to 25,000 kg, or 26,000 kg with road-friendly suspension.
4 or more axles: Can carry up to 30,000 kg, or 32,000 kg with road-friendly suspension.
| Why road-friendly suspension? This reduces the vibration caused by the wheels impacting the road surface, leading to advantages such as: Reduced wear and tear on the road
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The payload capacity of a flatbed truck is typically between 20,865 and 21,770 kg, once again depending on its axle configuration.
Tandem axles can support up to 15,422 kg
Spread axles can handle up to 18,143 kg.
It’s important to stay within these legal weight limits for flatbed trailers, not just to avoid safety risks but also to avoid penalties. Need to know what you’re dealing with? Truck scales at weigh stations provide the easiest way to weigh your flatbed easily and accurately.
Flatbeds vs vans – which are better?
This is a frequently asked question since both systems are commonly used vehicles for general haulage. In short, for transporting large, irregularly shaped loads, flatbeds are often the better choice due to their open design and higher weight capacity. That said, if your goods need protection from the environment or are valuable – and you want to keep them away from prying eyes – a van may be better suited.
X2 (UK): A flatbed for every need, 24/7
Get in touch with X2 (UK) to find out how our range of flatbed trailers can deliver the transportation solution you require.