How High Off the Ground Is a Flatbed Trailer?

Are you wondering how high a flatbed trailer sits off the ground? This guide gives you all the facts about flatbed trailer height and why it matters for your hauling needs.

What Is the Standard Height of a Flatbed Trailer?

A standard flatbed trailer sits about 4-5 feet (48-60 inches) off the ground when it’s empty. This is the most common height you’ll find for most flatbed trailers used in shipping.

But not all flatbed trailers are the same height:

• Standard flatbed trailers: 5 feet off the ground
• Double-deck trailers: Top deck is 5 feet high, bottom deck is 3 feet high
• Lowboy trailers: Only 18 inches off the ground for extra-tall loads

Flatbed Trailer Height Data and Statistics

Source: Industry market research and manufacturer specifications

Why Does Flatbed Trailer Height Matter?

The height of your flatbed trailer is super important for these reasons:

1. Legal Height Limits

The total height of your trailer plus the load can’t be more than 13 feet 6 inches in most states. This means:

• If your trailer is 5 feet high, your cargo can only be 8’6″ tall
• A lower trailer like a lowboy gives you more room for taller cargo

2. Loading and Unloading

The trailer height affects how you get things on and off:

• Standard 5-foot height matches most loading docks
• Higher trailers might need special ramps or equipment
• Lower trailers might be hard to unload at standard docks

3. Stability and Safety

Trailer height affects how stable your load will be:

• Higher trailers have a higher center of gravity
• Trailer hitch height must match the trailer for proper weight balance
• Wrong height can cause tire wear and poor handling

Types of Flatbed Trailers by Height

Let’s look at the main types of flatbed trailers based on their height:

Standard Flatbed Trailers

These sit about 5 feet off the ground and are the most common type. They’re good for:

• General cargo
• Building materials
• Equipment that isn’t too tall
• Matching with tractor units for semi-trailers

Lowboy Trailers

These are very low at just 18 inches off the ground. They’re perfect for:

• Extra tall machinery
• Oversized equipment
• Loads up to 12 feet tall
• Construction equipment

Stepdeck (Drop Deck) Trailers

These have two different heights:

• Top deck: 5 feet high (usually 10 feet long)
• Bottom deck: 3 feet high (usually 38-43 feet long)

They’re great for:

• Mixed cargo with different heights
• Partially tall items
• Efficient flatbed hauling of varied cargo

Factors That Affect Flatbed Trailer Height

Many things can change how high your flatbed trailer sits:

1. Trailer design and model – Different brands make trailers at slightly different heights
2. Suspension system – Air ride vs. spring suspension affects the height
3. Tire size and type – Bigger tires make the trailer sit higher
4. Load weight – Heavy loads can compress suspension and lower the height
5. Hitch height – The connection point to your tractor truck affects the angle

Market Trends in Flatbed Trailer Heights

The flatbed trailer market is growing fast:

• Expected to reach $44.25 million by 2025
• Growing at 3.95% yearly until 2030
• Long-term growth to $10.28 billion by 2034

New models like the 2025 Winston TAG 24 feature:

• 24-foot flat deck
• 49-inch axle spacing for better weight distribution
• 6-foot beaver tail and 8-foot hydraulic ramps

How to Choose the Right Flatbed Trailer Height

To pick the right flatbed trailer height:

1. Measure your typical cargo – Know how tall your loads usually are
2. Check your route – Look for bridges and tunnels with height restrictions
3. Consider your loading locations – Match trailer height to your loading docks
4. Think about your truck’s hitch height – Make sure they work well together
5. Check state regulations – Some states have different height rules

Flatbed Trailer Height Safety Tips

Stay safe with these flatbed trailer height tips:

• Check total height before driving under bridges
• Distribute weight properly based on trailer deck height
• Use proper tie-downs that work with your trailer height
• Adjust your driving for the higher center of gravity
• Be careful on windy days with tall loads on high trailers

Common Questions About Flatbed Trailer Height

Conclusion

The height of a flatbed trailer is a key factor in hauling success. Most standard flatbeds sit about 4-5 feet off the ground, but specialized trailers like lowboys (18 inches) and stepdecks (5 feet and 3 feet) offer options for different cargo needs.

When picking a trailer, think about what you’ll be hauling, where you’ll be going, and the loading/unloading spots you’ll use. Always check the total height (trailer + cargo) against the legal limit of 13’6″ in most states.

With the right flatbed trailer height, you’ll be able to transport your cargo safely, legally, and efficiently.